If my cousin was drunk driving and caused an accident, what kind of penalty is he looking at?
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If my cousin was drunk driving and caused an accident, what kind of penalty is he looking at?
He is only 20 years-old but has a M.I.P., for which he served 2 years probation.
Asked on February 6, 2011 under Criminal Law, Michigan
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Since you didn't mention any previous DUI, I will assume that this his his first. Accordingly, in MI, the potential penalties are:
There are many variables that influence the penalties a driver will receive for a first DUI offense. For example, if the accident resulted in a serious injury your cousin faces severe consequences including up to 5 years in jail and a $5,000 fine. If there was a death as a result of the accident, 15 years imprisonment is possible along with a $10,000 fine.
In some cases convicted drivers face vehicle immobilization up to 180 unless the vehicle is forfeited to the state. On top of the monetary penalties and possible jail time, the drunk driver will have their license suspended or revoked for a certain period of time (depending on the severity of their conviction). These are just some of the possibilities and a judge has the final say on these convictions. Additionally, since this is his second MIP, he will also face separate penalties for that, including additional jailtime.
Bottom line, your cousin is in a lot of trouble. If he doesn't already have one, he needs a DUI attorney ASAP.
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