Serving all of Michigan
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION call icon877-Ben-Hall

Awards & Recognition

Being charged with a second Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) offense in Michigan is a serious matter with potentially severe consequences. Michigan law treats repeat OWI offenses harshly, with stricter penalties and fewer leniency options than a first offense. If you are in this situation, taking immediate action to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome is crucial.

At Ben Hall Law, our East Lansing criminal defense lawyer understands your challenges and is here to help you navigate this difficult time. Below, we outline what you should do if you are charged with a second OWI offense in Michigan.

Understand the Penalties for a Second OWI in Michigan

A second OWI charge is typically classified as a misdemeanor, but the penalties can be severe:

  • Fines: Up to $1,000.
  • Jail Time: At least 5 days and up to 1 year in jail.
  • Community Service: Between 30 and 90 days.
  • License Suspension: A minimum of 1 year, with the possibility of a restricted license under certain conditions.
  • Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Mandatory installation in your vehicle at your expense.
  • Vehicle Immobilization or Forfeiture: Your car could be immobilized or forfeited.

Additionally, a second offense stays on your record for life and can lead to increased insurance premiums, difficulty finding employment, and other long-term consequences.

Remain Calm and Cooperative During the Arrest

How you handle yourself during the arrest can impact your case. Stay calm and respectful when interacting with law enforcement. Do not resist arrest or argue, which can lead to additional charges.

Avoid answering questions about alcohol consumption or other incriminating topics. Politely exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney.

Contact an Experienced Michigan OWI Defense Attorney

A second OWI charge is far more complex than a first offense, and having an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential.

At Ben Hall Law, we will:

  • Review the evidence against you, such as breathalyzer or blood test results.
  • Investigate the traffic stop to ensure it was conducted lawfully.
  • Challenge procedural errors or violations of your rights.
  • Develop a defense strategy tailored to your case, including negotiating for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.

Evaluate Potential Defenses

Several defenses may be available to contest a second OWI charge, including:

  • Challenging the Traffic Stop: The charges could be dismissed if the officer lacked reasonable suspicion to pull you over.
  • Questioning Evidence Accuracy: Breathalyzer or blood test results may be inaccurate or improperly administered.
  • Arguing Procedural Errors: Mistakes made by law enforcement during your arrest could weaken the prosecution’s case.

Why Choose Ben Hall Law?

A second OWI offense is life-altering, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Ben Hall Law, our experienced East Lansing criminal defense attorney is dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you achieve the best possible outcome.

We understand Michigan’s OWI laws and have the knowledge and skills to challenge the prosecution’s case, negotiate on your behalf, and advocate for reduced penalties or alternative sentencing.

If you’ve been charged with a second OWI offense in Michigan, time is of the essence. Contact Ben Hall Law today for a free consultation. Let us provide the legal support you need to protect your future and move forward.

Call 877-BEN-HALL (877)-236-4255 or contact us online. Your rights and freedom matter; we’re here to fight for them.

Practice Areas
Client Reviews

“Mr. Hall was a huge help. Being a former police officer and a former prosecutor was evident in his knowledge of both traffic and criminal laws. Even when I was willing to accept an initial plea deal, he knew that there was so little evidence against me that we should counter the offer. I went from a potential criminal case to a fine and 0 points. I could not be happier with my outcome. Thank you Mr. Hall!”

Anonymous

“I had an excellent experience with this law office. Ben Hall was able to handle my situation promptly and thoroughly, I was thankful we were able to avoided the hassle of going to court. I was looking for housing and if that isn’t an overwhelming task in itself, once I found a place that had vacancies they did not want to allow my support dog and the lady responsible for processing my application began sending me in circles and improperly handled the application process. It was to the point I didn’t think I was going to get housing when I contacted Ben Hall. He dove right in and explained to me the process and options and he guided me how to proceed and also contacted the housing development and let them know what their options were and how this was going to go if they continued to unjustly process my application… I received housing promptly with no further issues! So thankful for this option to pay such a minimal fee to have a lawyer in your corner and build a relationship with them. In a world were nothing is for sure it is a comfort to have such ease of access with this law office.”

Melinda

“Ben was very generous with his time and expertise. He asked straightforward questions and offered excellent options to meet our objectives. Amazing turn around on short deadlines. We needed a legal opinion dealing with a conflict of interest on a local school board. WOW! Ben really understood the issues andbour concerns. He produced an amazing 8 page opinion in in a weeks time. And he worked with us on minimizing legal fees.”

Dave

“Mr. Hall was a huge help. Being a former police officer and a former prosecutor was evident in his knowledge of both traffic and criminal laws. Even when I was willing to accept an initial plea deal, he knew that there was so little evidence against me that we should counter the offer. I went from a potential criminal case to a fine and 0 points. I could not be happier with my outcome. Thank you Mr. Hall!”

Anonymous

Ben was very generous with his time and expertise. He asked straightforward questions and offered excellent options to meet our objectives. Amazing turn around on short deadlines. We needed a legal opinion dealing with a conflict of interest on a local school board. WOW! Ben really understood the issues andbour concerns. He produced an amazing 8 page opinion in in a weeks time. And he worked with us on minimizing legal fees.

Dave

Latest Blog Posts

What to Do If You Are Charged with Assault in a Michigan Bar Fight

A night out at a bar can quickly become a

Read More

What to Do If You Are Charged with a Second OWI Offense in Michigan

Being charged with a second Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) offense

Read More

How to Defend Against Misuse of Department Resources for Michigan Public Employees

Public employees in Michigan serve their communities under a microscope of

Read More