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Michigan takes drunk driving offenses very seriously, and drivers charged under the state’s “Super Drunk” law face some of the harshest penalties available. The law targets individuals arrested with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.17 percent or higher, which is more than twice the legal limit of 0.08. A conviction can carry severe consequences that impact your freedom, finances, driving privileges, and future employment opportunities.
At Ben Hall Law, our East Lansing criminal defense attorneys understand how overwhelming a “Super Drunk” charge can be. As a former police officer and prosecutor, Attorney Ben Hall has firsthand insight into how these cases are investigated and prosecuted, as well as how to challenge the evidence to protect your rights effectively.
The Michigan “Super Drunk” law, officially known as the High BAC OWI Law, applies to drivers operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol level of 0.17 or higher. While this offense is still considered a misdemeanor, it carries much harsher penalties than a standard Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) charge.
To prove a Super Drunk violation, prosecutors must establish that:
If convicted, the consequences extend far beyond the courtroom, often affecting your career, personal reputation, and ability to drive legally.
The penalties for a first-time Super Drunk conviction are significantly harsher than those for a standard OWI.
While each case is unique, a conviction may include:
For repeat offenders or those with prior OWI convictions, the penalties can escalate even further and may include felony charges. Because Michigan courts and prosecutors treat high-BAC cases with particular seriousness, defendants must be proactive in their defense.
In many Michigan jurisdictions, Super Drunk arrests trigger enhanced attention from prosecutors and judges. Law enforcement officers often rely heavily on breathalyzer or blood test results, field sobriety tests, and officer observations to support the charge.
However, these types of evidence are not infallible. Breathalyzer equipment must be properly maintained and calibrated; officers must also follow specific procedures during testing and arrest. Any mistake in this process could result in inaccurate readings or procedural violations that can be used to challenge the prosecution’s case.
An experienced defense attorney can examine every detail of the arrest, from the legality of the traffic stop to the reliability of the test results, to identify weaknesses that could lead to a reduction or dismissal of the charges.
Beyond the criminal penalties, a Super Drunk conviction can have long-term effects on many aspects of your life.
The consequences may include:
Because a conviction becomes part of your permanent record, it can also limit your ability to qualify for professional licenses, especially in education, healthcare, and government positions.
Super Drunk cases require a defense strategy that is both technical and tactical. Understanding how police collect evidence, how testing equipment functions, and how prosecutors approach these cases is essential to achieving the best possible outcome.
At Ben Hall Law, we use our law enforcement and prosecutorial background to identify procedural flaws, challenge unreliable evidence, and advocate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing. Our team works tirelessly to protect your record, your license, and your freedom.
If you have been charged under Michigan’s Super Drunk law, do not face it alone. Call 877-BEN-HALL 517-921-1553 or contact us online today for a confidential consultation. We will review your case, explain your options, and begin building a defense designed to protect your rights and your future.
