OUIL / UBAL / OWI / OUI

OUIL/UBAL/OWI/OUI Defense Lawyer in Metro Detroit

Although the acronyms used to denote drunk driving charges in Michigan may vary, the consequences remain severe - if you have been charged with OUIL, UBAL or OWI, it is important to enlist the assistance of a knowledgeable drunk driving defense attorney. At the Legal Center of Jack L. Jaffe, we have over 20 years of experience representing clients in a wide range of drunk driving cases, including OWI defense.

The legal bodily alcohol content (BAC) level in Michigan - and throughout the country - is .08. This is important to know since all drunk driving charges, including OUIL, UBAL, and OWI (described below), all based on the driver's BAC. Learn more by reading below or contact our office to schedule an appointment.

Operating While Intoxicated (OWI)

The most common drunk driving charge in Michigan, OWI refers to operating a vehicle while impaired due to alcohol or narcotics. An OWI can be proved in a number of ways, including:

• The prosecution can call the arresting officers to testify that the manner in which you were driving indicates that, due to your consumption of alcohol, your ability to operate a motor vehicle was significantly decreased.
• A chemical test, such as a blood test or breath test, can be used as proof that the crime was committed. However, a chemical test is not always necessary to prove an OWI charge.

Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence of Intoxicating Liquor (OUIL, OUI, DUI)

An OUIL charge - or operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of liquor - carries more serious penalties than a first-offense OWI charge. Sometimes referred to as an OUI or DUI, an OUIL charge is not dependent on BAC; it merely requires evidence that your ability to drive was materially and substantially affected by the consumption of intoxicating liquor.

Unlawful Blood Alcohol Level (UBAL)

When an individual operates a motor vehicle with an unlawful blood alcohol level, they may be charged with UBAL. If the prosecution can prove that your blood alcohol content level was at or above the legal limit at the time you were driving, you can be found guilty of drunk driving. UBAL is known as a "per se" offense, meaning the prosecution does not need to prove that the alcohol had any impact on driving ability. The prosecution does have to show that the chemical test is both reliable and admissible in court.

To learn more about drunk driving laws in Michigan or to discuss your OWI defense, contact an attorney at the Legal Center of Jack L. Jaffe today. We offer a free initial consultation so you can personally discuss your OWI defense matter with an experienced lawyer at our office.