OWI Attorney in Kentwood

Your Trusted Partner for OWI Charges in Kentwood, Michigan

If you or a loved one faces an OWI charge in Kentwood, finding a knowledgeable OWI attorney can make a real difference in your future. At Tanis Schultz, we approach every OWI case with teamwork, open communication, and experience.

The 62B District Court in Kentwood sets court schedules according to its own local standards. The Kentwood Police Department and Michigan State Police follow strict procedures, and the local process can move quickly. Our familiarity with these Kent County practices allows us to give you practical advice and real-world expectations. 

We focus on preparing you for each step so you never feel caught off guard or alone in the process. You gain the collective insight of our OWI lawyers as we guide you through each stage, ensuring you have a plan built for your unique situation.

Our Kentwood OWI defense lawyer team is ready to step in and fight for you. Reach out at (616) 227-3737 or through our contact form to schedule your free consultation.

Understanding OWI Laws in Michigan

Michigan law specifically uses "OWI" (Operating While Intoxicated) as the primary charge for impaired driving. The statutes are broad and designed to give prosecutors multiple ways to secure a conviction. 

Under the Michigan Vehicle Code (MCL 257.625), you can be charged regardless of whether your vehicle was in motion; simply being in "actual physical control" of a vehicle while intoxicated is sufficient for an arrest.

Our firm handles all variations of these charges, including:

• OWI (Operating While Intoxicated): This is the standard charge for drivers with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or those whose ability to drive was "substantially lessened" by alcohol or drugs.
• OWVI (Operating While Visibly Impaired): This is a unique Michigan charge that allows for a conviction even if your BAC was below 0.08%. If an officer observes swerving, slurred speech, or poor performance on field sobriety tests, you can be charged with OWVI.
• High-BAC "Super Drunk" Law: If your BAC is 0.17% or higher, you face significantly enhanced penalties, including longer jail time and mandatory ignition interlock devices, even for a first offense.
• OWPD (Operating With the Presence of Drugs): Michigan has a "zero tolerance" policy for Schedule 1 controlled substances and cocaine. If any trace is found in your system, you can be charged with OWI even without visible impairment.
• Zero Tolerance (Under 21): For drivers under the age of 21, having a BAC of 0.02% or higher is enough to trigger a criminal charge.

A Kentwood OWI defense lawyer from our firm will analyze your specific citation to determine the most effective strategy for your unique situation.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of OWI Convictions

The penalties for OWI in Michigan are severe and increase with each subsequent offense.

• First Offense: Up to 93 days in jail, fines up to $500, and up to 360 hours of community service. Your license will be suspended for 30 days, followed by 150 days of restricted driving.
• Second Offense (within 7 years): Up to 1 year in jail, fines up to $1,000, and a minimum 1-year license revocation.
• Third Offense (Felony): This is a life-altering charge that can result in up to 5 years in prison and a permanent loss of driving privileges.
• Collateral Consequences: Beyond the court-imposed sentence, an OWI conviction will cause your insurance premiums to skyrocket. You may also face a "Driver Responsibility Fee" of $1,000 for two consecutive years. For many of our clients, the most devastating consequence is the permanent criminal record, which can prevent you from obtaining certain professional licenses or traveling to countries like Canada.

Why Choose Our Kentwood OWI Lawyer Team

When you face an OWI in Kentwood, your legal representation needs to be trustworthy and accessible. We view the attorney-client relationship as a true partnership. Our OWI defense attorneys keep you informed, work directly with you on your case, and offer support from your first call to the final result.

• Decades of combined experience: Our team brings over 50 years of insight to OWI and criminal defense cases in West Michigan.
• Direct access to your team: You work with a group of attorneys focused on your goals—never just a single point of contact.
• Advanced technology: Secure systems keep communication clear and your file organized, making the process more efficient and less stressful for you.
• Flexible, client-focused service: We offer same-day appointments, after-hours availability, and complimentary consultations so help is never far away.
• Proven history with challenging cases: Our achievements include favorable outcomes in both straightforward and complex matters involving large companies, government agencies, and insurance providers.

Our approach sets us apart among defense firms in Kentwood and throughout West Michigan. We pay careful attention to your input, walk you through your rights in clear terms, and respond quickly to concerns about paperwork, deadlines, or upcoming hearings. 

With every case, our OWI attorneys in Kentwood focus on delivering practical answers and steady guidance, so you always know where you stand and what to expect next.

At Tanis Schultz, we provide the elite advocacy necessary to navigate these complex charges. Contact an OWI attorney in Kentwood at (616) 227-3737 or message us online for your free consultation. Let our over 50 years of combined experience work for you.