Thousands of people will head out on New Year’s Eve to celebrate ringing in the New Year. Police officers will be out in full force looking for any signs that someone may be driving under the influence. No one wants to begin the new year with an Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) charge.

If you get charged with an OWI and it’s your first offense, the consequences include in excess of $100—$500 fine and up to 93 days in jail and/or 360 hours of community service. Your drivers license will be suspended for 30 days, followed by license restrictions for 150 days, as well as 6 points added to your driving record. It is also possible for vehicle immobilization or ignition interlock.

If you are drunk, sleeping it off in your car may not be the greatest idea. If the prosecutor is able to prove that you had the present ability to operate the vehicle or the prosecutor is able to show that you had to be driving before you fell asleep, you can be charged with an OWI. If you are planning on going out for the New Year’s holiday, plan accordingly and have a safe way home.

If you are facing criminal charges, call Terry Priest today at  248-380-0000, for a consultation.