Felony DUI Defense Attorney: What to Expect

When a Michigan OWI charge is classified as a felony, the stakes can extend well beyond the courtroom. You may be worried about jail, your job, your family responsibilities, and how you’ll get where you need to go if your license is affected. Those concerns are understandable, and getting clear information can help you focus on what to do next. A felony DUI defense attorney can review the specific charge, your prior record, police procedures, and test evidence. This article explains what may lead to felony OWI charges, what rights you can protect, how criminal and license matters differ, and what questions to ask when seeking legal counsel.

Key Takeaways

What Makes an OWI a Felony in Michigan?

Michigan treats some operating while intoxicated (OWI) cases as felonies based on a person’s prior convictions or the harm allegedly caused. The exact charge matters: different felony OWI offenses carry different penalties and legal requirements. A review of your record and the facts can help clarify what the prosecution must prove.

Repeat offenses and other factors that can lead to felony charges

A third or subsequent qualifying OWI conviction can be charged as a felony in Michigan. Prior OWI-related convictions may count even if they happened years ago, so the timing and details of each case deserve careful review.

A first OWI can also lead to felony charges if the incident allegedly caused serious impairment of another person’s body function or resulted in a death. Michigan law addresses these offenses separately in its OWI statute. The alleged harm, the circumstances of the incident, and the available evidence all affect the charge. An arrest or accusation is not a conviction, and the prosecution must prove the charge in court.

How felony OWI charges differ from misdemeanors

Felony OWI charges can carry more serious consequences than misdemeanor charges, including longer potential prison sentences, larger fines, and a felony record. For example, Michigan law allows a sentence of up to five years in prison for a third or subsequent OWI conviction. Other felony OWI offenses have different penalties, so the maximum sentence depends on the specific charge and circumstances.

Misdemeanor OWI charges can also result in jail, fines, probation, and driving restrictions. The distinction matters beyond sentencing: a felony conviction may affect employment, housing, and professional licensing. Avoid relying on a general description of OWI penalties to predict an outcome. The charge, prior record, and case facts all shape the possible consequences.

Why your record, alleged conduct, and exact charge matter

The prosecutor’s specific charge, your prior record, and the alleged conduct can all affect how a case proceeds. Important details may include whether a collision or injury occurred, what officers observed, and whether breath or blood testing was conducted. The type and timing of prior convictions may also affect the charge or potential sentence.

The evidence may raise questions, too. Test results and officer observations can be examined for issues with collection, handling, or interpretation. An attorney can review the charging documents and available evidence to explain which issues may matter in your case. If you are facing a felony OWI charge in Wayne County, Boulahanis & Associates offers a free initial consultation to discuss your situation and possible next steps.

What Should You Do After a Felony OWI Arrest?

A felony OWI arrest can involve court requirements and possible license consequences. Start by keeping your paperwork, tracking deadlines, and getting legal advice before discussing the incident. These steps can help you stay organized while your attorney reviews what happened.

Keep charging documents and note court and license deadlines

Save every document you received, including your citation, bond conditions, test-related paperwork, and notices about court dates or required actions. Keep them together, and note when and how you received each notice. Missing a court appearance or deadline can create additional problems.

Ask an attorney to review the paperwork and explain which dates apply to your criminal case. License-related matters may follow a separate process, so don’t assume a court date covers every obligation. The Michigan Secretary of State provides driver’s license restoration information, but an attorney can help determine what applies to your situation. Bring your documents to your consultation, along with notes about what happened before, during, and after the stop.

Avoid discussing your case before getting legal advice

Until you’ve spoken with a lawyer, avoid discussing the facts of your arrest with police, other people involved, or anyone online. Don’t post about the incident or share photos, messages, or theories about what happened. You can ask for an attorney and state that you don’t want to answer questions without legal counsel. Stay respectful, and don’t guess or make statements just to fill a silence.

Don’t delete messages, videos, or other records that may relate to the case. Your attorney can advise you on what to preserve and how to handle requests for information. Counsel can also review whether police had a lawful basis for the stop and arrest, and whether procedures were followed. The circumstances matter, so avoid assuming that any one detail determines the outcome.

Contact a Michigan DUI defense attorney promptly

Contact a Michigan DUI defense attorney as soon as you can. Early advice can help you understand the charge, prepare for upcoming court dates, and identify evidence that may need to be preserved. Bring your paperwork and be candid about what happened. Sharing the full story helps your lawyer assess the case and explain your options.

Look for an attorney familiar with felony OWI cases, DUI evidence, and the court handling your case. If you’re in Wayne County, Dearborn, or Canton Township, Boulahanis & Associates offers a free initial consultation and has defended DUI cases since 1989. Ask which deadlines need attention first and what information the attorney needs to begin reviewing your case.

What Rights Should You Protect?

A felony OWI arrest is an accusation, not proof of guilt. You have rights during the criminal process, including the right to remain silent during custodial questioning, the right to legal counsel, and the right to challenge the evidence against you. These protections can matter from the first police interview through court hearings and trial.

The rules can differ depending on the situation. For example, the right to remain silent during questioning is separate from Michigan’s chemical-test laws, which may carry their own consequences for your driving privileges. The Michigan OWI statute explains prohibited conduct and related penalties, but the facts of your arrest and the specific charge shape how the law applies. Stay calm, avoid discussing the incident with police beyond what is required, and ask to speak with an attorney before answering questions. A lawyer can explain which rights apply and help you track court and license deadlines.

Your right to remain silent and ask for an attorney

If you are in custody and police question you, you generally have the right to remain silent and request an attorney. State your request clearly, then stop answering questions about the incident. Avoid guessing, offering explanations, or trying to persuade officers. Even statements you view as harmless may later be used to challenge your account.

The right to remain silent does not mean you can ignore lawful instructions or refuse every request. Michigan’s chemical-test rules are separate from custodial questioning, and refusing a test may affect your driving privileges. The details matter, so ask a lawyer how those rules apply to your situation. The U.S. Department of Justice explains when Miranda rights apply to custodial interrogation. Contact an attorney promptly if you are unsure what to do or have already answered questions.

Your right to challenge evidence and question witnesses

The prosecution must use evidence to try to prove the charge. Your attorney can examine how that evidence was collected and whether it is reliable. That review may cover the reason for the traffic stop, the officer’s observations, field sobriety exercises, breath or blood testing, and how a sample was collected and handled. If police violated your rights, your lawyer can ask the court to exclude evidence when the law supports that request. The court decides whether exclusion is appropriate based on the facts and legal rules.

You can also challenge witness accounts. An attorney may compare an officer’s report with video, dispatch records, test results, and other evidence. Differences in timing or descriptions may raise questions about what happened. The Sixth Amendment’s Confrontation Clause gives defendants the right to confront prosecution witnesses. It does not mean every statement or piece of evidence will be excluded, but it allows the defense to question witnesses and test the state’s case.

Your right to present a defense and receive a fair trial

You have the right to present a defense and, if your case goes to trial, to require the prosecution to prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. Your attorney may question witnesses, present evidence, and argue that the state has not met its burden. Depending on the case, the defense might challenge testing procedures, introduce relevant records, or offer another explanation for an officer’s observations.

A felony OWI charge can carry serious consequences, but being charged does not establish guilt. You are presumed innocent unless the prosecution proves the required elements. Your attorney can explain the evidence, possible trial strategies, and decisions you may need to make along the way. The Sixth Amendment protects trial rights that include legal counsel and the ability to confront witnesses. A lawyer can help you understand how those rights apply to your case and what to expect if it proceeds to trial.

How an attorney can protect your rights at each stage

A defense attorney can review the events leading to your arrest, including the traffic stop, questioning, testing, and any search. The attorney may request relevant records and video, assess whether police followed required procedures, and identify possible legal issues. If the facts support it, your lawyer can ask the court to exclude evidence or consider another appropriate remedy.

Your attorney can also guide you through arraignment, pretrial hearings, negotiations, and trial preparation. That includes explaining what the prosecution must prove, helping you avoid unnecessary statements, and reviewing the evidence before you make decisions about a plea or trial. If your license is at risk, ask about related deadlines and options for protecting your driving privileges. Boulahanis & Associates handles DUI/OWI defense and license matters in Wayne County and the Dearborn area. Visit the firm’s website to ask about a free initial consultation and discuss your circumstances.

How Can a Felony DUI Defense Attorney Help?

A felony OWI charge can involve serious criminal penalties, complex evidence, and consequences for your driving privileges. A defense attorney can investigate the case, explain the choices available, and help you prepare for each stage. The right approach depends on the specific charge, your record, the evidence, and how Michigan law applies. No attorney can promise a particular result, but a careful review can help identify issues that deserve attention.

Your lawyer can examine the police stop and arrest, review test results and other evidence, and explain court procedures. If the case involves a possible plea agreement, trial, or appeal, an attorney can discuss the potential risks and options so you can make informed decisions. A felony OWI may also affect your license through procedures that are distinct from the criminal case. The Michigan Secretary of State’s license restoration guidance describes requirements that may apply if you seek to restore driving privileges.

For people charged in Wayne County, local experience can help make court procedures and next steps clearer. Boulahanis & Associates defends DUI and OWI cases in the Dearborn area and offers a free initial consultation.

Review the stop, arrest, and police procedures

An attorney can review why officers stopped you, what happened during the investigation, and the basis for your arrest. That review may include police reports, dashcam or body-camera footage, dispatch records, and witness accounts. If the facts raise questions about whether the stop or arrest complied with the law, your lawyer can assess whether a legal challenge is appropriate.

A possible procedural error does not automatically mean evidence will be excluded or a charge dismissed. The court will consider the circumstances and applicable law. Your attorney can identify records to request, compare reports with available recordings, and explain how any issues may affect your defense.

Examine breath, blood, and field sobriety test evidence

Test results are only part of the evidence, and the circumstances surrounding each test matter. An attorney can review how a breath test was administered and whether equipment records raise questions. In a blood-test case, the lawyer may examine how the sample was collected, stored, and handled. The defense can also assess whether instructions and testing conditions were appropriate.

Field sobriety exercises may be affected by factors unrelated to alcohol or drug impairment, including an injury, balance issue, footwear, lighting, weather, or the condition of the testing surface. Your attorney can compare the officer’s observations with recordings and other evidence. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s field sobriety testing materials describe standardized procedures and related guidance.

Assess witness accounts, video, and evidence handling

A thorough review goes beyond test results. Your attorney can identify potential witnesses and compare their accounts with police reports and recordings. Video from a patrol car, body camera, nearby business, or traffic camera may provide context about the driving, the stop, or the tests. It may also clarify details that a written report does not capture.

Your lawyer can examine how evidence was collected, documented, stored, and transferred. In a blood-test case, records about the sample’s handling may matter when assessing whether the result can be relied on. A gap or inconsistency does not determine the outcome by itself. The attorney can explain whether an issue is significant and how it may fit into the defense.

Explain court proceedings, negotiations, trials, and appeals

Your attorney can explain what to expect at court appearances, review the charge and possible consequences with you, and help you prepare. If the prosecution makes a plea offer, your lawyer can assess it alongside the evidence, your circumstances, and the risks of going to trial. You make the decision after discussing the options and consequences with your attorney.

If the case goes to trial, counsel can challenge evidence, question witnesses, and present a defense. An appeal may be possible if a conviction or ruling raises a legal issue, but appeals have strict deadlines and do not simply repeat the trial. Your attorney can review whether there may be grounds to appeal. The Michigan Court of Appeals provides information about the appeals process.

Address license consequences and restoration

A criminal OWI case can affect your driving privileges, and license matters may involve separate procedures and deadlines. The impact depends on the circumstances of the case and your driving record. Ask your attorney how the charge or a possible conviction could affect your license, and whether you need to take action by a particular date. Do not assume that resolving the court case automatically resolves every license issue.

If your license has been revoked, restoration may require a separate application and hearing. An attorney can explain the requirements, help you understand what documents may be needed, and discuss whether you are eligible to apply. The Michigan Secretary of State’s restoration guidance outlines the process. Because eligibility and deadlines depend on your circumstances, seek advice based on your record and case.

What Defenses May Apply to a Felony OWI?

A felony OWI charge does not automatically establish guilt. The available defenses depend on the specific charge, your driving and criminal history, and the evidence in your case. A thorough review can help identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s account, questions about how evidence was collected, or legal issues that may affect what evidence can be used in court.

A defense attorney may examine police reports, video, witness statements, and test records, then explain which arguments fit the facts. Some issues may support a request to exclude evidence; others may affect negotiations or the decision to go to trial. An error does not guarantee that a charge will be dismissed, and the court decides whether a legal challenge succeeds. The purpose of investigating these issues is to make informed decisions based on the evidence and Michigan law. Boulahanis & Associates represents people facing OWI charges in Wayne County, including Dearborn and nearby communities.

Challenge the stop or arrest

An attorney can review why police stopped your vehicle and what happened before and during your arrest. The officer must have a lawful basis for the stop, and the arrest must meet legal requirements. The review may include the officer’s stated reasons, any available video, and whether the reports match the events.

If the stop or arrest violated your rights, your attorney may ask the court to exclude evidence obtained as a result. Whether that request succeeds depends on the circumstances and applicable law. Excluding evidence does not automatically end a case, but it may change what the prosecution can present. Examining the stop and arrest can be an important step.

Question test procedures, reliability, and scientific evidence

Breath, blood, and field sobriety test results may be challenged when questions arise about how the tests were conducted or interpreted. An attorney can review whether equipment was maintained and used properly, whether officers followed required procedures, and whether the testing conditions could have affected the results.

For blood evidence, the review may include how the sample was collected, stored, transported, and analyzed. Field sobriety tests may also be affected by instructions, surface conditions, footwear, injuries, or other physical factors. A test result is one part of the prosecution’s case, not a complete account of what happened. Examining test reliability and scientific evidence can help identify questions to discuss with your attorney.

Identify explanations for observations besides impairment

Police reports may describe driving, speech, balance, or behavior as signs of impairment. Those observations need to be considered in context. Fatigue, a medical condition, an injury, stress, uneven pavement, poor weather, or confusion during a stressful encounter may affect how someone appears or responds.

An attorney can compare the officer’s description with video, witness accounts, medical information, and the timeline of events. The goal is not to assume another explanation, but to assess whether the available evidence supports the prosecution’s interpretation. If the observations are unclear or inconsistent, that may be relevant when evaluating the case. Considering other explanations for observed behavior can help frame questions for a careful evidence review.

Find constitutional or procedural errors

A defense review should look beyond the test results. An attorney can examine whether police respected your constitutional rights, followed required procedures, and accurately documented the investigation. Depending on the case, this may include reviewing questioning, evidence collection, reports, and how physical evidence was handled.

If the investigation involved a constitutional or procedural error, your lawyer can assess whether it supports a motion or another challenge. The significance depends on the facts and the law that applies; not every mistake affects the outcome. Reviewing potential constitutional and procedural issues can help identify arguments that may matter in court.

Weigh negotiation and trial options against the evidence

Negotiating a resolution and going to trial involve different risks and considerations. Before recommending a path, an attorney should assess the evidence, possible legal challenges, potential consequences of a plea, and your priorities. You should understand the options and their possible outcomes before making a decision.

A negotiated resolution may be worth considering if it offers a meaningful benefit. A trial may be appropriate when the evidence or legal issues support contesting the charge. No attorney can guarantee a particular result, and the right choice depends on the details of your case. A case-specific assessment of negotiation and trial options can help you decide how to proceed.

What Criminal and License Consequences Could You Face?

Penalties depend on the charge, your record, and the case facts

A felony OWI does not carry one standard penalty. The potential consequences depend on the specific charge, your prior convictions, whether someone was injured or killed, and the evidence in your case. In Michigan, a third OWI offense can be charged as a felony. An OWI that causes serious injury or death can also lead to felony charges. A conviction may result in incarceration, fines, and restrictions on your driving privileges.

The Michigan OWI statute sets out different offenses and penalties. What may apply to your case depends on the charge and circumstances, so it is important to have the details reviewed before deciding how to proceed.

Court proceedings and Secretary of State actions are separate

Your criminal case and any action affecting your driver’s license are separate processes. The court handles the criminal charge and determines whether you are guilty and what sentence may apply. The Michigan Secretary of State handles driving-record and license actions, which may arise from an OWI conviction or an alleged chemical-test refusal.

This means that resolving the criminal case does not necessarily settle a license matter. You may need to respond to court documents while also addressing a notice or hearing involving your driving privileges. The Secretary of State’s driver’s license information explains state services and requirements. Read every notice carefully, and ask an attorney which deadlines apply to your situation.

License suspensions, restrictions, and restoration may involve deadlines

A suspension or revocation can affect your ability to get to work, school, and family responsibilities. Whether you can challenge a license action or later seek restoration depends on the type of action, your driving record, and the circumstances of your case. Some steps must be taken quickly, so do not assume you can wait until the criminal case is over to address your license.

Keep paperwork from the police, court, and Secretary of State, and note when you received each document. An attorney can help identify applicable deadlines and explain what options may be available. The Michigan Secretary of State provides general license information, while advice based on your case can help clarify what to do next.

A felony conviction can affect more than sentencing and driving privileges

The effects of a felony OWI conviction may extend beyond incarceration, fines, and license consequences. Depending on your circumstances, a felony record may create challenges with employment, housing, professional licensing, or travel. The impact varies, so it is worth discussing how a potential conviction could affect your specific plans and responsibilities.

Before making decisions about a plea or trial, ask how each option could affect both your immediate case and your future. A defense attorney can review the evidence, explain potential consequences, and discuss possible strategies. Boulahanis & Associates represents people facing DUI and OWI charges in Wayne County and offers a free initial consultation.

What Should You Look for in a Felony DUI Defense Attorney?

A felony OWI charge can put your freedom, driving privileges, and future at stake. When comparing attorneys, look beyond general criminal defense experience. Ask how the lawyer will review the evidence, explain your options, and address any license issues. The right attorney should understand Michigan law and tailor advice to the facts of your case.

Experience with felony OWI cases and DUI evidence

Ask whether the attorney has handled felony OWI cases and how they assess evidence such as the traffic stop, arrest, police reports, and test results. A helpful answer should explain what the lawyer would review and why, rather than promise a particular outcome.

Experience with breath, blood, and field sobriety evidence matters, too. Ask how the attorney examines testing procedures, equipment records, officer observations, and how evidence was collected and stored. Michigan’s OWI statute sets out the offenses and related provisions, but how the law applies depends on the charge and case facts. A lawyer should identify potential issues and explain what information is still needed to assess them.

Knowledge of Michigan law and Wayne County courts

Your attorney should be able to explain the law that applies to your charge, what the prosecution must prove, and how prior convictions or the alleged circumstances may affect the case. Ask how the lawyer will confirm the exact charge and review your record before discussing possible outcomes. Clear, Michigan-specific advice can help you understand the decisions ahead.

Local court familiarity can also make the process easier to follow. Ask whether the attorney regularly handles OWI cases in Wayne County and nearby courts, including those serving Dearborn and Canton Township. The Third Judicial Circuit Court provides information about Wayne County court services. A lawyer should use local knowledge to explain practical details, such as hearings and court procedures, without suggesting that familiarity guarantees a specific result.

Experience with trials, appeals, and driver’s license issues

Ask about the attorney’s experience at different stages of a criminal case. Some cases resolve through negotiations, while others require motion hearings or trial. If you have already been convicted, appeal options may be limited by deadlines and depend on the case record. A lawyer should explain which paths may be available in your situation and what each could involve.

Driving privileges are another important issue. Ask how the attorney will identify relevant deadlines and explain possible license consequences. Criminal court proceedings and administrative license actions can follow separate rules, so confirm what your attorney will handle and whether you need to take other steps. Boulahanis & Associates outlines its DUI defense services for people in Wayne County and the Dearborn area.

Clear communication, realistic advice, and a case-specific strategy

You should understand what your attorney is telling you and know how to ask questions. During an initial conversation, notice whether the lawyer listens, explains legal terms in plain language, and tells you what happens next. Ask who will respond to routine questions and how often you can expect updates.

Look for advice that is honest about uncertainty. No attorney can guarantee a dismissal, acquittal, or particular sentence. Your lawyer should explain the strengths and weaknesses they see, what information they still need, and the options worth considering. A strategy should reflect your charge, record, evidence, deadlines, and driving concerns. Before hiring an attorney, make sure you understand the proposed plan, what the fee covers, and how you will be involved in important decisions.

Local experience in Dearborn, Canton Township, and nearby communities

If your case is in Wayne County, ask whether the attorney regularly represents people in the courts serving your community. Experience with cases in Dearborn, Canton Township, and nearby areas may help the lawyer explain local procedures and practical details, such as where to appear and how hearings are scheduled. Local experience does not guarantee a particular outcome, so focus on how the attorney’s knowledge applies to your case.

During a consultation, ask what the lawyer knows about the court handling your charge and how they will keep you informed about appearances and deadlines. Confirm that the attorney can represent you in that court. Boulahanis & Associates has served the area since 1989 and offers a free initial consultation, where you can discuss your charge and ask how the firm would approach your defense.

What Does a Felony DUI Defense Attorney Cost?

The cost of defending a felony DUI or OWI case depends on the work involved, the evidence, and the scope of representation. There is no single fee that applies to every case, and estimates from other states may not reflect what a Michigan attorney charges. Before hiring counsel, ask what the fee covers, what could cost extra, and how payments are structured.

Case complexity and representation scope affect fees

A felony OWI case may require more work than a straightforward misdemeanor. An attorney might review prior convictions, examine breath or blood test results, interview witnesses, consult experts, or prepare for trial. Disputed evidence and serious allegations can also affect how much time the case requires.

One published estimate puts felony DUI retainers at $5,000 to $25,000 or more. That range is general information, not a Michigan quote or a promise of the total cost. The estimate notes that independent testing, expert testimony, and investigative work may be billed separately. Review the listed cost factors, then ask an attorney to explain what may apply to your case.

Ask about retainers, payment options, and additional expenses

Ask whether the attorney charges a flat fee, bills by the hour, or requires a retainer that is applied to legal work. Request a written agreement that describes the services included and explains when additional charges may arise. If the initial payment is difficult to manage, ask whether the firm offers payment plans or other arrangements.

Clarify whether expenses such as lab testing, expert reports, investigator services, travel, or court testimony are separate from legal fees. Ask which costs are optional, what issue each one may help address, and whether you will approve the expense before it is incurred. A written estimate makes it easier to compare the full scope of representation rather than focusing only on the amount due upfront.

Confirm whether fees cover hearings or appeals

A quoted fee may cover only part of the case. Before signing an agreement, ask whether it includes arraignment, pretrial hearings, motions, trial preparation, trial, and sentencing. Also confirm whether a driver’s license hearing or a later appeal requires a separate fee. Each stage may involve additional preparation, filings, and court appearances.

Rates and total costs vary by location, attorney, and case complexity. For example, one Arizona fee guide gives a general hourly range, but it should not be treated as Michigan pricing. Ask for a written estimate based on your circumstances, and find out how the attorney will discuss changes if the work or expected cost increases.

Discuss your case, fees, and next steps during a consultation

Use the consultation to share the charge, any prior record, upcoming court dates, and notices about your driving privileges. Bring charging documents and test paperwork if you have them. Ask how the attorney would review the stop, arrest, and test evidence, what information they still need, and which deadlines may require prompt attention.

Discuss the retainer, payment schedule, possible extra expenses, and whether the agreement covers related license matters. A clear conversation can help you understand both the proposed work and the likely costs before you decide how to proceed. Boulahanis & Associates offers a free initial consultation to discuss your case and questions about representation.

How Can You Compare Felony DUI Attorneys in Wayne County?

Review credentials, relevant experience, and client feedback

Confirm that any attorney you are considering is licensed to practice in Michigan. The State Bar of Michigan’s directory lets you check an attorney’s status. Then ask about their experience with felony OWI cases, including cases involving prior convictions, serious allegations, or disputed breath and blood test results. Ask what parts of that experience may be relevant to your circumstances. General criminal defense experience can be valuable, but it may not answer questions about DUI evidence or driving privileges.

Client reviews can help you understand how an attorney communicates and treats clients, but they cannot predict what will happen in your case. Look for consistent comments about responsiveness and clear explanations. During a consultation, ask follow-up questions to see whether the attorney’s approach fits your needs.

Compare communication, consultations, and fees

Use the consultation to assess whether the attorney listens carefully and explains the process in plain language. Ask who will handle your case day to day, how to reach them, and how often you can expect updates. You should be able to raise concerns without feeling rushed. Be cautious of anyone who guarantees a particular result before reviewing the facts and evidence.

Ask for a clear explanation of fees before you decide. Find out what the fee covers, whether hearings and trial preparation are included, and whether expert witnesses or an appeal would cost extra. Discuss retainers, payment options, and other possible expenses. Boulahanis & Associates offers a free initial consultation, giving you a chance to discuss your charge and ask about the firm’s approach before making a decision.

Ask how the attorney will assess evidence and protect your rights

Ask what information the attorney would review before recommending a strategy. That may include the police report, dash or body camera footage, breath or blood test records, witness statements, and details about the traffic stop and arrest. A useful answer should explain how the evidence may be examined for issues, without promising that a test will be excluded or a charge dismissed.

Ask how the attorney will keep you informed about court dates, deadlines, and decisions that need your input. You can also ask how they would explain the risks of negotiating a resolution compared with taking the case to trial. Your defense should be based on the specific allegations and evidence in your case, not a standard plan applied to every client.

Get prompt, Michigan-specific advice and ask about a free consultation

A felony OWI case involves Michigan law and may raise separate questions about your driving privileges. Contact a Michigan defense attorney promptly, and bring your charging documents, release paperwork, and any notices you received. Ask which deadlines apply and whether you need to take action regarding your license. The Michigan Secretary of State’s license restoration information can explain general restoration requirements, but an attorney can discuss how your circumstances may affect your options.

Before the consultation ends, make sure you understand the immediate next steps, what records the attorney needs, and how fees work. Boulahanis & Associates has served Wayne County and the Dearborn area since 1989 and offers a free initial consultation. A direct conversation can help you decide whether the firm’s experience and communication style are right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a first-time OWI be charged as a felony in Michigan?Yes. A first offense may lead to a felony charge if the incident allegedly caused serious impairment or death. The exact charge depends on the circumstances, and the prosecution must prove the required elements.

Do prior OWI convictions count if they happened years ago?They may. Whether a prior conviction qualifies can depend on the type and details of the earlier case. Ask an attorney to review your record before assuming it will or will not affect your current charge.

Does a felony OWI arrest mean I will lose my license?Not automatically. License consequences depend on the charge, your driving record, and any separate action involving the Michigan Secretary of State. Read every notice you receive and ask an attorney which deadlines apply.

What should I bring to a felony OWI consultation?Bring your citation, court and bond paperwork, test-related documents, and any notices about your license. A written timeline of the stop and arrest can also help your attorney understand what happened.

How soon should I contact a defense attorney?Contact one as soon as you can, especially if you have an upcoming court date or a notice with a response deadline. Early advice can help you organize records, understand your obligations, and identify evidence that may need to be preserved.

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