Select a link Home Why hire Maze? About Mr. Maze Free Evaluation Introduction Video More Videos DUI Defenses Breath Test Refusals BAC Datamaster Blood Alcohol Limits Field Sobriety Tests PBTs DUI Penalties     DUI Penalties (continued) License Sanctions Ignition Interlocks Vehicle Forfeiture DUI Newsletter DUI Rights Card

Michigan DUI Penalties: Repeat Offenders

Second offenders
Second time DUI offenders face harsher penalties under Michigan's tough DUI laws, including an increased liklihood of lengthy jail sentences. A second offense within seven years of a prior convinction carries a fine of $200 to $1,000.00 and either imprisonment for not less than 5 days and up to 1 year and/or community service for not less than 30 days or more than 90 days. Many judges routinely remand offenders for 45 days and up to 6 months.

A prior conviction includes a prior DUI and even an "impaired" or a zero tolerance conviction for underage drinking and driving. Convictions from other states may also be used as a "prior offense."

Forfeiture of the vehicle becomes more likely with a repeat offense, and if the car is not forfeited, it is mandatory that the court order the vehicle immobilized upon conviction. Upon conviction for an OWI 2nd or even a second impaired, a person's driver's license is revoked for a minimum of one year. To get a restricted license, the convicted person must wait until they are eligible to apply to the DLAD (driver's license appeal division) and satisfy their requirements.

Third Offense: Felony
Under a law that went into effect January 3, 2007, a third offense (regardless of the number of years between convictions) is a felony. A third offense carries a fine of not less than $500.00 or more than $5,000.00 and to either imprisonment for 1 to 5 years or probation with imprisonment in the county jail for not less than 30 days or more than 1 year.

If the third DUI conviction falls within 10 years of two other convictions, the driver's license is revoked for a minimum of 5 years.