Michigan DUI & OWI Defense Attorneys Serving Battle Creek, Lansing & Beyond
One mistake shouldn't cost you your freedom. If you've been charged with driving or boating under the influence, you need an attorney who knows exactly what's at stake — and how to fight for the best possible outcome.
• First & Repeat OWI Defense • License Restoration Connection • Bilingual Attorney • Payment Plans Available
• First & Repeat OWI Defense • License Restoration Connection • Bilingual Attorney • Payment Plans Available
We Handle the Legal Side, So You Can Focus on What Comes Next
Wood & Associates PLLC defends clients facing DUI (Driving Under the Influence), Operating While Impaired (OWI), and related boating-under-the-influence charges throughout Michigan. The firm represents both first-time and repeat DUI/OWI charges and connects clients directly to its License Restoration practice when a case affects driving privileges.
A single mistake doesn't have to define the rest of your life. We walk every client through exactly what to expect, work to get charges reduced or dismissed where possible, and stay with you through whatever comes next—including getting your license back.
Understanding OWI Penalties in Michigan
First OWI Penalties:
- Fines from $100–$500
- Up to 93 days in jail
- Up to 360 hours of community service
- Driver's license suspension for 30 days, followed by restrictions for 150 days
- Six points added to your driving record
- Probation
Second OWI Penalties:
- Fines from $200–$1,000
- Jail time from five days to one year
- 30–90 days of community service
- License sanction up to one year
- Six points added to your driving record
- Probation
Third OWI Penalties:
- Felony, punishable by a mandatory minimum of 30 days in jail, up to 5 years
- Mandatory one-year driver's license suspension
- Vehicle impound and forfeiture
- Probation
Why Clients Trust Us When Everything's on the Line
A DUI or OWI charge is one of the more frightening things a person can face, and we never treat it like just another case. This is the firm's own list of what sets it apart — and every case is handled with all six in mind.
Exceptional communication and responsiveness.
We answer calls live, and chat messages get a callback within about 15 minutes during business hours — because when your freedom and your license are on the line, you deserve an actual person, not a voicemail box.
Welcoming, real people.
From the attorney handling your case to the team supporting them, you'll be treated like a person facing something serious, not a file number.
Inclusive service, with deep ties to the LGBTQ+ community.
Every client gets the same respect and vigorous defense, regardless of who they are.
A bilingual Spanish/English attorney on staff.
Spanish-speaking clients can work through their plan directly with an attorney, not just a translated page. (Front-desk reception is not currently Spanish-speaking — let us know when you call, and we'll connect you with an attorney who speaks Spanish.)
Proven results and experience.
Our attorneys have successfully defended OWI charges in Battle Creek, Lansing, and Grand Rapids for years, and we bring that same experience to every case we take on.
Flexible payment options.
A third-party, no-credit-check Pay Later financing option means a strong defense doesn't have to wait on cost.
The People Behind Your Case
Every case here is handled by real people, not a call center and not a rotating cast of strangers. Meet a few of the attorneys and staff who might be the first friendly face you see.
Wood & Associates PLLC handles family law, estate planning and probate, Chapter 7 bankruptcy, administrative law matters like license restoration and CPS appeals, Minor in Possession (MIP) defense — one team, wherever you're starting from.
Kent Wood II
President & Founder
Brigette Booser
Attorney and Counselor
Paul Umlauf
Attorney
Jennifer Reed
Attorney
Jami Rosado
Senior Paralegal
Hannah Robinson
Attorney
Sarah Hayes
Legal Secretary
Kent Wood II
President & Founder
Brigette Booser
Attorney and Counselor
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I'm charged with a first-offense OWI in Michigan?
A first OWI in Michigan can carry fines from $100 to $500, up to 93 days in jail, up to 360 hours of community service, a 30-day license suspension followed by 150 days of restricted driving, six points on your driving record, and probation. Wood & Associates works to reduce or eliminate these penalties whenever possible.
How are second and third OWI penalties different from a first offense?
Penalties increase sharply with each offense. A second OWI can mean five days to a year in jail and up to a year's license sanction, while a third is a felony carrying a mandatory minimum of 30 days up to five years in prison, a mandatory one-year license suspension, and vehicle forfeiture. Wood & Associates defends all three.
Will I lose my license immediately after a DUI arrest in Michigan?
Not necessarily immediately, but a license suspension often follows an OWI charge or conviction, and the length depends on whether it's a first offense or a repeat one. Because timing and paperwork deadlines matter, Wood & Associates recommends contacting an attorney as soon as possible after an arrest, not after the court date.
What is Michigan's "High BAC" law?
Michigan imposes enhanced penalties when a driver's blood alcohol content is 0.17 or higher, on top of the standard OWI penalties for a 0.08 BAC. For drivers under 21, Michigan's zero-tolerance law applies enhanced penalties starting at a BAC of just 0.02 to 0.07. Wood & Associates defends clients across every BAC level.
Does a DUI conviction affect my driver's license restoration later?
Yes. A DUI or OWI conviction is often the reason someone later needs a Michigan Secretary of State license restoration hearing, especially after a second or third offense. Wood & Associates handles both, defending the DUI charge itself and, if needed, the restoration hearing that follows it.
Do I need a lawyer if this is my first DUI and I think I'm guilty?
Yes. Even in a straightforward case, an attorney can often negotiate a reduced charge, minimize penalties, or identify procedural issues with the stop or testing that affect the outcome. Wood & Associates offers a consultation to review the specific facts of your case before you decide anything.
Serving Battle Creek, Lansing & Beyond
OWI cases are handled in the district or circuit court where the alleged offense occurred, which is often — but not always — the court nearest where you live. Wood & Associates has courtroom experience across Michigan, including Battle Creek, Lansing, and Grand Rapids.
Battle Creek Office
2943 W Dickman Road, Battle Creek, MI 49037 (269) 841-5426 Mon–Thu 9:00 AM–5:00 PM · Fri 9:00 AM–12:00 PM · Sat/Sun evenings by appointment Serving Calhoun County and extending into Kalamazoo, Hillsdale, and Barry counties.
Lansing Office
901 N. Washington Ave., Lansing, MI 48906 (517) 481-4023 · Toll-free (888) 209-7348 Mon–Thu 9:00 AM–5:00 PM · Fri 9:00 AM–12:00 PM · Sat/Sun evenings by appointment Serving Ingham County and extending into Clinton, Eaton, Shiawassee, and Jackson counties.
Talk with a local attorney team today
One mistake doesn't have to be the end of the story.
However you're most comfortable reaching out — a call, a chat, a text, or a quick form — we're ready to help. Walk-ins welcome during business hours; consultations by appointment.