Charged with an OWI?

The Best Defenses Against a DUI Charge in Michigan

Facing a DUI charge in Michigan can feel overwhelming and uncertain. With your driving privileges, professional reputation, and personal freedom potentially at risk, understanding your defense options is crucial. Fortunately, there are effective strategies to defend against a DUI, especially when you have the guidance of an experienced drunk driving attorney.

This article will explore some of the most common defenses to DUI charges in Michigan, including challenging the legality of the traffic stop, questioning the accuracy of breath tests, and identifying procedural mistakes. 

We’ll also discuss how our firm, led by a seasoned OWI defense lawyer, can guide you through this process to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome. If you’re seeking top legal assistance, Mark Caldwell is a trusted name as a dui lawyer Grand Rapids MI residents turn to for results.

Defense #1: Challenging the Legality of the Traffic Stop

One of the first and most critical aspects of a DUI case is the traffic stop itself. By Michigan law (and federal law), an officer must have a valid reason, or “reasonable suspicion,” to pull you over. Examples of reasonable suspicion include observable infractions like speeding, swerving, or running a stop sign.

If your attorney can prove the officer stopped your vehicle without reasonable suspicion, any evidence collected during the stop—including breathalyzer results or field sobriety test performance—may not be admissible in court. For instance, if you were driving flawlessly and the officer stopped you based on a vague hunch, the stop could be deemed unlawful.

What You Should Do:

Take note of the events leading up to your stop. Was there a clear reason for the officer to pull you over, or did they appear to be fishing for probable cause? Details like this can help a knowledgeable OWI defense lawyer build a strong case for you.

Defense #2: Questioning the Accuracy of Breathalyzer or Blood Test Results

Breathalyzer devices and blood alcohol testing are not flawless. Many factors can lead to inaccurate or unreliable results, such as:

• Calibration Errors: Breathalyzer devices need regular calibration to ensure accuracy. If the machine was not properly maintained, the results might not hold up in court.
• User Error: Law enforcement must follow strict protocols when using breathalyzers. If an officer does not conduct the test correctly, the results may be invalid.
• Medical Conditions or Substances: Certain medical conditions or external factors can skew results. For example, acid reflux, diabetes, or even mouthwash with alcohol can produce false positives.

The expertise of an experienced dui lawyer Grand Rapids trusts can be instrumental in investigating testing protocols and exposing errors that might undermine the prosecution’s case.

What You Should Do:

Inform your attorney about any physical conditions, substances, or medications you consumed before the test. These details can make a significant difference in your defense.

Defense #3: Identifying Procedural Errors

Michigan law requires officers to follow strict procedures during a DUI investigation. When officers fail to follow proper protocol, it can weaken the case against you. Common procedural errors include:

• Failure to read your Miranda rights during the arrest
• Mishandled evidence, such as improper storage of blood samples
• Neglecting to offer alternative sobriety tests, as Michigan law requires
• Using coercion to obtain a confession

If any of these errors occurred, they could challenge the prosecution’s evidence, giving your defense a considerable boost. Mark Caldwell, an experienced drunk driving attorney, will review your case with precision to identify any procedural missteps.

What You Should Do:

Take careful notes about the interaction you had with law enforcement. Pass all relevant details to your legal team at your earliest convenience to ensure no detail is overlooked.

Defense #4: Exploring Unique Defenses

Not all DUI cases follow the same playbook. Based on your circumstances, additional defenses might apply, including:

• Challenging Witness Testimony: If an officer’s account doesn’t align with dashcam footage or physical evidence, this can undermine their credibility.
• Claiming Necessity: If you were driving under the influence due to an emergency, this uncommon defense may apply.
• Arguing a Lack of Control: Under Michigan law, DUI charges often apply to those “operating” a vehicle. If you weren’t driving or were not actively in control of the car (e.g., asleep in the back seat), your attorney may successfully raise this defense.

These tailored strategies should only be explored with the expert guidance of a trusted dui lawyer Grand Rapids MI residents depend on.

Choosing the Right Legal Services in Grand Rapids MI

Navigating a DUI charge requires not only extensive knowledge of Michigan DUI laws but also exceptional attention to detail and tactics that fit your situation. Without an experienced attorney to spot weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, you could be left at a disadvantage.

Mark Caldwell’s expertise as a dui lawyer Grand Rapids MI residents trust sets him apart. Our practice is rooted in protecting clients’ rights, whether it involves questioning the legality of a traffic stop, challenging faulty evidence, or highlighting procedural errors. Our years of successfully navigating Michigan DUI cases allow us to build tailored defense strategies for every client.

With Mark Caldwell, you’ll find unmatched dedication to your case. Our legal services Grand Rapids MI team is committed to fighting for the best possible outcome, minimizing penalties, and helping you move forward.

Contact Mark Caldwell Today for Trusted DUI Representation

A DUI charge does not have to derail your life—but time is of the essence. To secure your future, it’s essential to act quickly and consult the right drunk driving attorney.

Contact Mark Caldwell’s office today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and begin building a powerful defense. With the experienced help of a leading OWI defense lawyer and dui lawyer Grand Rapids trusts, you are putting your best foot forward.

Don’t wait. Call us now to take control of your case and protect your future. You can call me, you can text me, you can email me. My phone number is 616-915-6576 or you can email me. If I don’t answer the phone, it means that I’m either with a client or I’m working at one of the courthouses and I will get back with you as soon as possible.