First-Time OWI Arrest in Plymouth: A Step-by-Step Guide Through 35th District Court

If you were arrested for a first-offense OWI in Plymouth, the most pressing question on your mind is probably: What happens next? This is a step-by-step overview of the Michigan OWI process for first-time offenders whose cases go through the 35th District Court in Plymouth.

Step 1: Arrest and Release

After the arrest, you will typically be processed at the local police department or Wayne County Jail. For most first-offense OWIs, you are released within several hours on a personal bond or after posting cash bond. You'll be given paperwork that includes your arrest information and your first court date.

If you refused the chemical breath or blood test after arrest, you'll also receive a Form DI-93. That paper triggers an automatic one-year license suspension unless you request an Implied Consent hearing within 14 days of the arrest. This is the most commonly missed deadline in Michigan OWI cases.

Step 2: Arraignment in the 35th District Court

OWI arrests in the City of Plymouth and Plymouth Township are arraigned in the 35th District Court in Plymouth. The arraignment is the first court appearance. At arraignment:

• You are informed of the charges,
• A plea (usually not guilty at this stage) is entered,
• Bond conditions are set, which may include no alcohol consumption, no driving without a valid license, alcohol testing, and other conditions.

Attorney involvement before arraignment is highly recommended. Many bond conditions can be addressed proactively.

Step 3: Pretrial Conferences

Most OWI cases involve one or more pretrial conferences where your attorney meets with the prosecutor to discuss the case. This is the stage where:

• Evidence is reviewed (police reports, body-camera footage, the breath or blood test results),
• Motions to challenge the stop, search, or test results are filed,
• Plea negotiations occur — often involving reduction to Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI) under MCL 257.625(3) or other lesser offenses.

Step 4: Motion Hearings (If Necessary)

Motions to suppress evidence, dismiss the case, or exclude the chemical test are heard before the judge. Successful motions can result in dismissal or significant reduction of charges.

Step 5: Trial or Plea

Most OWI cases resolve through a plea — often to a reduced charge. If the case goes to trial, it is held before a jury or a judge depending on the choice.

Step 6: Sentencing

For a first-offense OWI conviction:

• Up to 93 days in jail (180 days for High BAC of .17 or above),
• $100–$500 in fines ($200–$700 for High BAC), plus court costs,
• A 30-day hard license suspension and 150 days of restricted driving,
• Six points on your driving record,
• Substance abuse assessment and treatment,
• Possible community service and probation,
• Possible vehicle immobilization.

For High BAC, an ignition interlock device is required on any restricted license.

What to Do Right Now

• Hire an experienced OWI defense attorney before your first court date.
• Do not discuss the case with anyone other than your attorney.
• Mark the 14-day Implied Consent deadline on your calendar if you refused the chemical test.

Call Boria Law Today

If you were arrested for OWI in Plymouth, attorney Aaron J. Boria of Boria Law represents drivers in the 35th District Court. From challenging the stop to negotiating with prosecutors, Boria Law works to protect your record and your license.

Call (734) 453-7806 today for a free consultation.