A. Importance of understanding Michigan DUI laws B. The consequences of a DUI conviction C. Objective: To provide an outline for defending drunk driving cases in Michigan
II. DUI Laws and Terminology in Michigan A. Overview of Michigan DUI laws 1. Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) 2. Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI) 3. "Super Drunk" law (High BAC) B. Key legal terms and definitions 1. Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) 2. Chemical tests (breath, blood, urine) 3. Implied consent law 4. Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs)
III. The DUI Arrest Process A. The traffic stop and investigation 1. Probable cause 2. Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs) 3. Preliminary Breath Test (PBT) B. The arrest and chemical testing 1. Breathalyzer or blood/urine test 2. Consequences of refusing a chemical test C. Knowing your rights during the arrest process
IV. Building a Strong Defense Strategy A. Hiring the right attorney 1. Experience with DUI cases in Michigan 2. Track record and success rate 3. Communication and rapport B. Examining the details of your case 1. Reviewing the arrest report and evidence 2. Identifying any procedural errors or rights violations 3. Gathering additional evidence, if necessary C. Common defense strategies 1. Challenging the legality of the traffic stop 2. Disputing the accuracy of chemical tests 3. Questioning the administration of Field Sobriety Tests 4. Presenting alternative explanations for impairment
V. Navigating the Legal Process A. Arraignment and entering a plea 1. Understanding the charges and potential penalties 2. The importance of pleading not guilty initially B. Pretrial motions and negotiations 1. Filing motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges 2. Negotiating a plea deal with the prosecution C. Trial preparation and presentation 1. Developing a clear and compelling defense strategy 2. Presenting evidence and expert testimony 3. Cross-examining prosecution witnesses D. Understanding the potential outcomes 1. Acquittal or conviction 2. Sentencing and possible penalties 3. Post-trial options, such as appeals or expungement
VI. Conclusion A. The importance of a proactive and informed approach to defending a DUI case B. The potential for a favorable outcome with the right legal representation C. The lasting impact of a DUI conviction and the need for responsible driving
II. DUI Laws and Terminology in Michigan A. Overview of Michigan DUI laws 1. Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) 2. Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI) 3. "Super Drunk" law (High BAC) B. Key legal terms and definitions 1. Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) 2. Chemical tests (breath, blood, urine) 3. Implied consent law 4. Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs)
III. The DUI Arrest Process A. The traffic stop and investigation 1. Probable cause 2. Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs) 3. Preliminary Breath Test (PBT) B. The arrest and chemical testing 1. Breathalyzer or blood/urine test 2. Consequences of refusing a chemical test C. Knowing your rights during the arrest process
IV. Building a Strong Defense Strategy A. Hiring the right attorney 1. Experience with DUI cases in Michigan 2. Track record and success rate 3. Communication and rapport B. Examining the details of your case 1. Reviewing the arrest report and evidence 2. Identifying any procedural errors or rights violations 3. Gathering additional evidence, if necessary C. Common defense strategies 1. Challenging the legality of the traffic stop 2. Disputing the accuracy of chemical tests 3. Questioning the administration of Field Sobriety Tests 4. Presenting alternative explanations for impairment
V. Navigating the Legal Process A. Arraignment and entering a plea 1. Understanding the charges and potential penalties 2. The importance of pleading not guilty initially B. Pretrial motions and negotiations 1. Filing motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges 2. Negotiating a plea deal with the prosecution C. Trial preparation and presentation 1. Developing a clear and compelling defense strategy 2. Presenting evidence and expert testimony 3. Cross-examining prosecution witnesses D. Understanding the potential outcomes 1. Acquittal or conviction 2. Sentencing and possible penalties 3. Post-trial options, such as appeals or expungement
VI. Conclusion A. The importance of a proactive and informed approach to defending a DUI case B. The potential for a favorable outcome with the right legal representation C. The lasting impact of a DUI conviction and the need for responsible driving
