MenuCommercial Drivers License DUI Defense Attorneys in Michigan
Facing drunk driving charges in Michigan is a challenge in and of itself. Because of the dangers associated with accidents involving semi-tractor trailers and large commercial vehicles, the driving standards and regulations are significantly stricter than those for non-commercial use, such as private vehicles. In fact, Michigan has some of the harshest drunk driving laws for those holding a Commercial Drivers License (CDL), and unlike most states applies this even when the CDL holder is operating their own vehicle. It is vital that individuals holding commercial drivers licenses who are being charged with drunk driving seek out the best possible legal defense.
The attorneys at George Law have decades of combined experience defending against drunk driving charges in Michigan. We sit down with our clients to understand their particular situation and the circumstances surrounding their case in order to mount an effective legal defense for the best possible outcome. Our reputation for winning for our clients is backed up by a track record of success and legendary courtroom performance. If you are a CDL holder in need of high performance legal defense, contact our office today to see how we can help.
DUI Penalties for CDL in Michigan
Michigan is well known throughout the country for having some of the harshest drunk driving penalties on the books. When the accused also holds a Commercial Drivers License in the state, this bad situation gets worse. Michigan has a zero tolerance policy towards CDL holders who drink and drive, with mandatory license suspension for one year with no exceptions. Unlike non-CDL holders, there is no hardship or work license available. This means that CDL holders convicted of drunk driving will be unable to legally drive commercial vehicles, and therefore lose their ability to generate income.
In addition to a license suspension, those convicted will also receive six points on their driving record, which can compound the process of restoring a license if there are additional points on record for previous driving infractions. On top of this, even though an individual is eligible to have their license reinstated after their one year suspension, they may be unable to find another position similar in terms of pay to the one they lost when their DUI occurred. Oftentimes employers will flat out reject individuals for a driving position based on the number of points on their license, regardless of the fact that the individual has gone through the work to have it reinstated.
Hiring a DUI Attorney
It should be readily apparent the seriousness of receiving a DUI as a commercial driver in Michigan. Not only can this hamper an individual’s freedom and mobility, it can also affect their livelihood. Many drivers are not aware of how unusually harsh Michigan’s drunk driving laws are and underestimate the consequences they may face from a single lapse in judgment.
Having an expert legal team on your side is important in any OWI case, and especially so in cases involving a CDL. Unlike most other drunk driving cases, the state does not offer any leniency or alternative sentencing for CDL holders.
Because of this, the only effective way to avoid the life altering consequences of a CDL DUI is to not be convicted in the first place, hiring the right team of drunk driving attorneys from the beginning is absolutely vital. The team of veteran drunk driving attorneys at George Law is standing by to help, contact us today to make the first right step in protecting your future.