DUI Lawyer in Berkley, Michigan

Being charged with a DUI (known as OWI in Michigan) in Berkley is a serious matter that can change your life. You face potential jail time, license suspension, thousands in fines, and a criminal record. At ElimiTix PLLC, our experienced DUI defense attorneys fight aggressively to protect your rights and your future.

If you have been arrested for drunk driving in Berkley or anywhere in Oakland County, time is critical. You have only 14 days after your arrest to request a hearing to save your license. Call us immediately at (844) 937-6849 for a free consultation.

Types of DUI/OWI Charges in Michigan

• OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) — BAC of 0.08% or higher. The standard drunk driving charge.
• OWVI (Operating While Visibly Impaired) — Evidence of impairment but BAC may be below 0.08%. Often used as a plea reduction.
• Super Drunk / High BAC — BAC of 0.17% or higher carries enhanced penalties including mandatory treatment and ignition interlock.
• OWI with Drugs (OWPD) — Operating with any Schedule 1 substance or impaired by any drug including prescriptions.
• Second Offense OWI — Prior conviction within 7 years means mandatory jail and license revocation.
• Third Offense OWI (Felony) — Up to 5 years in prison and vehicle forfeiture.

Penalties for a DUI Conviction in Berkley

First Offense OWI: Up to 93 days in jail, fines up to $500, up to 360 hours of community service, license suspension for 30 days followed by 150 days of restrictions, 6 points on your record, and possible vehicle immobilization.

Super Drunk (BAC 0.17+): Up to 180 days in jail, fines up to $700, license suspension for 1 year (restricted after 45 days with interlock), mandatory treatment, and 6 points.

Second Offense: 5 days to 1 year in jail, fines up to $1,000, license revocation for minimum 1 year, vehicle immobilization or forfeiture, and mandatory treatment.

Third Offense (Felony): 1 to 5 years in prison, fines up to $5,000, license revocation for minimum 5 years, and vehicle forfeiture.

How We Defend DUI Cases

• Challenging the traffic stop — Police must have reasonable suspicion. If the stop was unlawful, all evidence may be suppressed.
• Questioning field sobriety tests — These are subjective and affected by medical conditions, weather, footwear, and officer error.
• Challenging breathalyzer results — We investigate calibration records, operator certification, and whether proper procedures were followed.
• Challenging blood test results — Blood samples must follow strict protocols. Chain-of-custody issues can invalidate results.
• Examining officer conduct — We review dashcam, bodycam, and police reports for inconsistencies.
• Negotiating reduced charges — We work with the Oakland County prosecutor for reductions to OWVI or reckless driving.

45th District Court — DUI Cases

DUI cases in Berkley are prosecuted at the 45th District Court, located at 13600 Oak Park Blvd, Oak Park, MI 48237. Our attorneys have extensive experience at this court and understand how local prosecutors handle DUI cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do after a DUI arrest in Berkley?

Contact a DUI attorney right away. You have 14 days to request a Secretary of State hearing to challenge your automatic license suspension. Missing this deadline means your license is suspended regardless of the criminal case outcome.

Can a DUI charge be reduced or dismissed?

Yes. Depending on the evidence, we may get your OWI reduced to OWVI or reckless driving. If there are problems with the stop or breathalyzer, we may get the case dismissed entirely.

Will I lose my license?

A first-offense OWI results in a 30-day suspension followed by 150 days restricted. By fighting the charge, we may avoid suspension or minimize the impact. Requesting the Secretary of State hearing within 14 days is critical.

How much does a DUI lawyer cost?

ElimiTix offers competitive flat-fee pricing for DUI defense. Given that a DUI conviction can cost over $10,000 in fines, fees, insurance increases, and lost income, investing in quality defense is one of the smartest decisions you can make.

Is a first-offense DUI a felony?

A first-offense OWI is typically a misdemeanor. However, if someone was seriously injured or killed, even a first offense can be charged as a felony. Third-offense OWI is always a felony.

Contact ElimiTix DUI Defense Today

A DUI charge does not have to ruin your life. Contact ElimiTix PLLC at (844) 937-6849 for a free consultation. Our office is at 24100 Southfield Rd, Ste 203, Southfield, MI 48075, and we defend clients throughout Oakland County and Metro Detroit.