A DUI or OWI arrest in Wayne County can put your driver’s license, criminal record, and reputation at risk under Michigan’s strict drunk driving laws. A Wayne County DUI/OWI defense attorney represents drivers charged with Operating While Intoxicated in Detroit and surrounding communities and builds a defense based on the specific facts of the case. At Jeffrey Randa and Associates, we defend clients facing OWI, High BAC, and repeat offense charges, carefully reviewing the traffic stop, field sobriety testing, and chemical test results to identify legal and technical issues that may strengthen your defense and help protect your future.

Why Choose Jeffrey Randa and Associates for Wayne County DUI Defense?

When you are charged with OWI in Wayne County, the court you are assigned to matters. So does your lawyer’s familiarity with local procedures and prosecutors.

When you work with us, you can expect:

Representation focused specifically on Michigan DUI and driver’s license cases
Deep familiarity with Wayne County district courts and the Wayne County Circuit Court
Detailed case screening to identify legal and technical defenses
Honest case assessments and strategic planning from the start
Courtroom advocacy backed by over 30 years of hands-on experience

We take the time to examine every aspect of your case and build a defense that fits your circumstances.

What Are the Penalties for OWI in Michigan?

Michigan law provides several OWI-related charges, including:

OWI (Operating While Intoxicated)
OWVI (Operating While Visibly Impaired)
High BAC or “Super Drunk”
Second and third offenses

Penalties depend on your record and the charge. They may include:

Jail time
Fines and court costs
Community service
Probation
Driver’s license suspension or revocation
Vehicle immobilization

A first offense OWI can still carry significant consequences. Courts take alcohol-related driving charges seriously, and the outcome depends on the facts of the case and the judge assigned. We work to dismiss or reduce charges where possible and protect your ability to drive.

Can I Challenge the Traffic Stop or Breath Test?

Yes. Many Wayne County DUI cases turn on legal and technical issues.

We examine whether the officer had reasonable suspicion to stop your vehicle. A stop without a valid reason can lead to suppressed evidence. We also evaluate whether field sobriety tests were conducted according to standardized procedures and whether the officer was properly trained.

Breath and blood tests must comply with strict rules. Calibration records, operator certification, and chain of custody all matter. If procedures were not followed, the results may be challenged.

Every case is different. Our role is to identify weaknesses and use them to your advantage.

What Happens to My Driver’s License?

License consequences depend on the charge and your prior record. A first offense OWI conviction typically results in a suspension, followed by restrictions. A High BAC conviction leads to a longer suspension and mandatory ignition interlock.

A plea bargain from a more serious OWI offense down to the least severe DUI charge of OWVI only results in a short restricted license period.

Repeat offenses can result in revocation, which requires a formal driver’s license restoration appeal through the Michigan Secretary of State.

We explain how the criminal case and the license consequences interact. Protecting your ability to drive is often one of the most important parts of your defense strategy.

How Do Wayne County Courts Handle DUI Cases?

Wayne County includes both urban and suburban courts. Sentencing practices, probation conditions, and plea negotiations can vary from court to court.

Some courts impose strict alcohol testing as a bond condition. Others focus heavily on education and treatment. Judges may require alcohol assessments before sentencing.

Because we regularly handle cases in Wayne County, we understand how different courts approach OWI cases. That knowledge helps us prepare you for what to expect and position your case effectively.

Should I Plead Guilty?

A DUI conviction has long-term consequences. It appears on both your criminal and driving record and can affect employment, insurance rates, and professional licensing.

Before making any decision, we review:

The strength of the evidence
Possible constitutional challenges
Potential plea reductions
Sentencing risks

In some cases, negotiating a reduction to OWVI may significantly limit license penalties and long-term impact. In others, filing motions may improve your position. We will give you a clear assessment so you can make informed decisions.

Take Control of Your Wayne County OWI Case

An OWI arrest does not define you, but how you respond matters. The earlier we get involved, the more options we can explore. At Jeffrey Randa and Associates, we defend drivers throughout Wayne County with a focused, strategic approach.

Wayne County DUI/OWI FAQ

How long does a Wayne County DUI case take?

Many first offense cases resolve within a few months, but contested cases involving motions or trial can take longer, depending on the court’s schedule.

Will I have to install an ignition interlock device?

Ignition interlock is required for High BAC convictions and certain repeat offenses. It is not required for a standard first offense OWI. Interlock requirements are imposed by the Secretary of State when restricted licenses are issued in certain cases.

Can a DUI be expunged in Michigan?

Under recent changes to Michigan law, some first offense OWI convictions may be eligible for expungement after a waiting period, provided you meet statutory requirements.

Wayne County DUI/OWI