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If you have been arrested for Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) in East Lansing, you may quickly learn that Michigan takes impaired driving seriously. However, many drivers do not realise that refusing a chemical test after an OWI arrest can trigger immediate and severe consequences.
At Ben Hall Law, our experienced Ingham County criminal defense attorneys help clients navigate these complex situations. We work to protect their driving privileges, reputations, and futures.
Under Michigan’s Implied Consent Law, any driver on public roads automatically consents to a chemical test after a lawful OWI arrest. This test typically involves a blood, breath, or urine sample to detect alcohol or drugs.
Refusing the test after a valid arrest triggers automatic penalties.
These penalties are separate from any criminal OWI charges and may include:
Even if you believe the stop was unfair or you were not intoxicated, refusing the test will not help. In fact, it can make your situation worse.
Michigan strictly enforces chemical test refusal laws. Officers treat a refusal as noncompliance, not as an exercise of your rights. While you can remain silent and request an attorney, you cannot refuse a chemical test after a lawful OWI arrest without penalties.
Judges and prosecutors often view a refusal as a sign you knew you were impaired. As a result, this perception can weaken your defense and limit plea options.
If you refuse a chemical test, you have only 14 days from your arrest to request a hearing. This hearing with the Michigan Department of State lets you challenge the suspension. If you miss the deadline, your license will be suspended automatically. As a result, your chances of obtaining a restricted license become limited.
At Ben Hall Law, we help clients prepare for these hearings and build strong arguments. We also work to protect your driving privileges whenever possible.
An OWI arrest and refusal can feel overwhelming, especially when you are dealing with license suspension, court dates, and uncertainty about what comes next. The consequences move quickly, and the clock starts ticking from the moment of arrest.
If you or someone you love has been arrested for OWI and refused a chemical test in East Lansing or anywhere in Michigan, Call 877-BEN-HALL (517-798-5801) or contact us online right away. Our knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys will help you understand your options and fight for the best possible outcome.
