MICHIGAN

General Information:

 Following conviction, all offenders receive a mandatory alcohol assessment to determine the nature and extent of their alcohol problems. The costs of the assessment may be paid for either by the state or the offender.

 The assessment is conducted post-trial but pre-sentencing. The court takes the results of the assessment into consideration in final sentencing.

 Assessments may be conducted by a private agency at the behest of the defense attorney, a court employed assessment specialist or a private agency at the direction of the court.

 Treatment for repeat offenders is mandatory.

 Offenders failing to comply with the terms of their program are not eligible for license reinstatement and may be returned to the court for further action.

 Michigan does not have dedicated detention and treatment facilities that target the hardcore drunk driver.

 Some Michigan counties have a specific court just to deal with the issues of alcohol-related offenses. The offender works with an assigned judge and probation officer to ensure that compliance to the sanctions is maintained. In addition, the judge and probation officer also take an interest in the progress of the offender’s recovery.

BEWARE: Completing an alcohol program may not satisfy the DMV. That is just one reason why it is critical that you consult with a lawyer in your area that concentrates on DUI / DWI defense.

Drunk driving defense is a very specialized area of law; if you or someone you care about has is facing a DUI charge, it is important to speak to a lawyer who is skilled in defending drunk driving cases.