Harper Woods DUI/OWI Defense Attorney

A DUI or OWI charge in Harper Woods can put your future at risk. You may be facing jail time, fines, a suspended license, or a permanent criminal record. At the Law Office of Julian J. Poota, PLLC, we understand what’s at stake and how stressful this experience can be. With over 20 years of experience in criminal defense, Attorney Julian J. Poota provides aggressive, strategic representation to help you fight drunk or drugged driving charges in Harper Woods and throughout Wayne County.

Understanding DUI/OWI Charges in Michigan

In Michigan, drunk and drugged driving offenses are legally categorized as:

• OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) – Operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher
• OWVI (Operating While Visibly Impaired) – Driving while visibly impaired by alcohol or drugs, even with a BAC under .08
• OUID (Operating Under the Influence of Drugs) – Driving under the influence of controlled or intoxicating substances
• OWI with High BAC – Driving with a BAC of .17 or higher, also known as Michigan’s “Super Drunk” law
• Zero Tolerance Violations – For drivers under age 21 with any measurable alcohol in their system

Refusing a chemical test (breath, blood, or urine) can also result in additional penalties under Michigan’s implied consent law.

DUI/OWI Penalties in Michigan

The penalties for a DUI/OWI conviction depend on the number of prior offenses and the circumstances of your case. Possible consequences include:

First Offense:

• Up to 93 days in jail
• Fines of $100–$500
• License suspension/restriction
• 6 points on your driving record
• Mandatory alcohol education/treatment
• Community service

Second Offense (within 7 years):

• Up to 1 year in jail
• Mandatory license revocation
• Vehicle immobilization
• Higher fines and longer probation

Third Offense (Felony):

• Up to 5 years in prison
• Lifetime license revocation (with possible appeal after several years)
• Felony record
• Vehicle forfeiture

How We Defend DUI/OWI Charges in Harper Woods

At the Law Office of Julian J. Poota, PLLC, we take a thorough and strategic approach to defending OWI charges. Our defense strategies may include:

• Challenging the legality of the traffic stop or arrest
• Questioning the accuracy of breathalyzer or blood test results
• Identifying violations of your constitutional rights
• Disputing the officer’s observations or field sobriety test procedures
• Negotiating reduced charges or sentencing alternatives
• Seeking treatment-based resolutions for eligible clients

We will review the police reports, video footage, and chemical test results in detail to build the strongest defense possible.

Court Handling DUI/OWI Cases in Harper Woods

If you’re charged with OWI or a related offense in Harper Woods, your case will be heard at:

32-A District Court – Harper Woods
19617 Harper Ave
Harper Woods, MI 48225
Phone: (313) 343-2590
Website: https://www.harperwoodscourt.com

Felony OWI cases (such as a third offense) will be transferred to the Wayne County Circuit Court in Detroit.

Why Choose Our Firm?

Attorney Julian J. Poota has over 20 years of experience fighting DUI and criminal charges throughout Michigan. He understands both the science behind DUI cases and the procedural tactics prosecutors use. With our firm, you get:

• Experienced trial and negotiation skills
• Personalized and compassionate representation
• A proven record of success in DUI defense
• An attorney who fights to protect your freedom and your license

⭐ Read What Our Clients Have to Say

We’re proud of our results—and even prouder of the trust our clients place in us.
📣 Check out our Google Reviews »

Explore More Defense Services

We offer comprehensive criminal defense for many types of cases. Visit the Harper Woods Criminal Defense Attorney page for an overview of our services.
For more DUI-related information, view our Wayne County DUI/OWI Defense page.

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been charged with drunk or drugged driving in Harper Woods, the time to act is now. Let us fight to protect your record, your license, and your future.

📞 Call (248) 356-8900
📨 Or contact us online at: https://www.pootalaw.com/contact-us/