In most cases, when a person is charged with a DUI, they face misdemeanor charges. However, is it possible for a DUI to be charged as a felony? Although it is rare, it is possible for a person to be convicted of a misdemeanor or felony DUI. A standard first offense will almost always result in a misdemeanor; however, there are unique circumstances when a DUI can result in a felony. Daniel D. Hajji, Attorney at Law has gathered the details on when a DUI may be charged as a felony in Michigan.
What Type of DUI Can Be Charged as a Felony?
Although DUI charges are usually treated as misdemeanors, which would result in at least one year in prison, it is also possible for a DUI to be charged as a felony. A DUI felony will result in hefty fines, lengthy prison sentences, and harsher collateral consequences. If you collect three or more DUI convictions, they will be treated as a class E felony. This results in achieve penalties such as one to five years in jail, a minimum jail sentence of 30 days, and fines of up to $5,000. Other penalties may include 60 to 180 days of community service, a revoked driver’s license, six points to your driver’s license, and forfeiture of your vehicle.
Your DUI can also be charged as a Class E felony if you drive drunk and cause a serious injury. For you to get convicted of a DUI with bodily injury, there must be strong evidence that your DUI was the actual cause of the victim’s injury. You will face harsher consequences if your drunk driving resulted in someone’s death. The offense is a class C felony, which carries a maximum prison sentence of 15 years. Other penalties include a fine of up to $10,000, a revoked driver’s license, forfeiture of your vehicle, and six points added to your license.
Need Legal Assistance? Call Our Oakland County DUI Lawyers!
If you face felony DUI charges, it is important to have an experienced attorney on your side. A DUI can quickly turn into a felony, depending on the details of your case. Felony charges will result in heftier fines and prison sentences; for that reason, it is vital to protect your rights by having an experienced attorney on your side. At Daniel D. Hajji, Attorney at Law, I represent clients throughout Farmington Hills and surrounding areas get their drug possession charges reduced or even dismissed. For nearly two decades, I’ve obtained the desired results for our clients’ cases. I am ready to help you achieve the best possible results for your case.
Daniel D. Hajji, Attorney at Law is available 24/7 and offers flexible payment plans. Contact my firm today for a free consultation!