Sterling Heights Firm Provides Criminal Defense Counsel
Southeast Michigan attorneys protect individuals’ fundamental rights
Everyone is familiar with the concept that people who are accused of breaking the law are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court, but it can be very intimidating to defend yourself against police and prosecutors. This is why hiring an effective attorney is critical. At Goetting Corrado Law Group, P.C. we safeguard the fundamental rights of Michigan clients who have been charged with criminal misconduct and traffic violations. Our criminal defense lawyers challenge the allegations and evidence brought by authorities and vigorously pursue justice for those we represent, whether that is a dismissal, acquittal or favorable plea agreement.
Effective representation in cases involving drunk driving charges
A charge of operating a vehicle while intoxicated can trigger serious consequences even if you’ve never been convicted before of drunk driving or anything else. Many accused of OWI are not familiar with the criminal justice system and might be compelled to plead guilty, especially if their breathalyzer result showed an intoxication level over the applicable legal limit. However, there are many potential defenses to a drunk-driving charge, so you should not give up your rights before discussing your options with an experienced attorney. Potential consequences for an OWI conviction include the following:
- First offense — A first conviction for OWI or Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI) carries a maximum jail sentence along with a fine and a 30-day license suspension, followed by a 150-day period of restricted driving privileges. Your punishment could also include required community service.
- Second offense — If you have a prior drunk-driving conviction, there is a minimum five-day jail term, and incarceration could last as long as one year. The top fine is $1,000 and you must perform community service for between 30 and 90 days. In addition to a longer period of license suspension and restriction, you might also have an ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle.
- Third offense — Following a third conviction you could face one to five years in prison, though there are alternatives that might reduce your time behind bars. You could face a fine of up to $5,000, extended community service and possibly forfeiture of your vehicle along with a loss of driving privileges.
These penalties can be greatly enhanced if aggravating factors exist, such as an accident causing injury or a blood-alcohol concentration of .17 percent or higher. We will review the facts of your case in detail to assess whether key evidence could be excluded because police lacked proper legal grounds to make a stop or arrest. You might also be the victim of improper test administration or sloppy handling of the sample being used against you. Whatever circumstances led to your OWI or OWVI case, our attorneys will advocate for a resolution that minimizes the disruption to you and your family.
Skillful advocacy for motorists cited for alleged traffic offenses
Citations for speeding, careless driving, disobeying a traffic signal and other motor vehicle violations are costly in many ways. Fines and court costs could total several hundred dollars and your auto insurance premiums might rise sharply. Moreover, you can incur points that lead to the suspension of your driver’s license. For example, a conviction for speeding where you’re allegedly clocked traveling 16 miles per hour or more over the posted limit carries a four-point penalty. Accumulating 12 points over a two-year timeframe results in license suspension, so failing to fight a meritless ticket could end up having serious consequences down the road. Based on the facts in the case, our attorneys can advocate for a dismissal or reduction in charges that helps you avoid unjust punishment.
Contact a Michigan lawyer for a free consultation if you’ve been charged
Goetting Corrado Law Group, P.C. defends residents of Macomb and Oakland Counties who have been accused of drunk driving, traffic offenses and other types of unlawful conduct. To speak with an accomplished Michigan attorney regarding your case, please call 586-544-7825 or contact us online for a free consultation. Our office is in Sterling Heights.