FRAIBERG & PERNIE
Former City Prosecutor & Police Officer
DUI & Criminal Defense Firm
Michigan DUI & Criminal Defense Lawyers
Fraiberg & Pernie Attorneys provides strategic criminal defense for DUI (OWI), domestic violence, drug charges, and other criminal offenses across Southeast Michigan.
We represent clients in Oakland County, Wayne County, and Macomb County. From the beginning, our approach focuses on early evidence review, aggressive defense strategy, and protecting your record, license, and future.
Fraiberg & Pernie is a Michigan criminal defense law firm representing clients charged with DUI/OWI, domestic violence, drug crimes, assault, theft, probation violations, and felony or misdemeanor offenses in Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County, and Metro Detroit. The firm is led by Matthew A. Fraiberg and Eric L. Pernie.
DUI and OWI Defense in Michigan
In Michigan, OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) is the legal term for drunk driving offenses. However, DUI is a commonly used term that refers to the same type of charge.
Because DUI cases often depend on technical details, early legal analysis is critical. Therefore, our defense focuses on:
- Traffic stop legality
- Field sobriety testing procedures
- Breathalyzer accuracy and calibration
- Blood testing methods
- Chain of custody issues
- Constitutional violations
As a result, identifying even small procedural errors can significantly improve the outcome of a case.
Criminal Charges We Defend
We represent clients facing a wide range of criminal charges. Specifically, these include:
- DUI / OWI
- Domestic violence
- Drug possession and delivery
- Assault and battery
- Retail fraud and theft
- Embezzlement and financial crimes
- Felony and misdemeanor charges
Each case requires a strategy based on the evidence, the law, and the court handling the matter.
Why Early Defense Strategy Matters
Criminal cases move quickly. In many situations, prosecutors begin building their case immediately. For that reason, early defense preparation is essential.
First, we gather all available evidence. Next, we analyze police reports, body-cam and dash-cam footage, and witness statements. Then, we evaluate testing procedures and identify any legal or constitutional issues.
As a result, early action can increase the likelihood of dismissal, reduction, or a stronger position at trial.
Courts We Serve Across Southeast Michigan
We regularly appear in courts throughout:
- Oakland County
- Wayne County
- Macomb County
Because each court operates differently, we tailor defense strategy based on local procedures, prosecutors, and judges. Therefore, our approach is always adapted to the specific court and case.
Attorney Experience
Attorney Matthew A. Fraiberg is recognized for his experience in DUI and criminal defense across Michigan.
In addition, his credentials include:
- AV Preeminent® Rating
- 10.0 rating on Justia
- Recognition from Expertise.com
- Membership in the National College for DUI Defense
Consistent preparation and courtroom strategy are key factors in achieving strong results.
Representative Case Results
We build cases based on evidence, not assumptions. As a result, preparation drives outcomes.
Examples include:
- OWI reduced to civil infraction
- High BAC reduced with no jail time
- Felony OWI dismissed
- Domestic assault – not guilty
- Drug possession dismissed
Defense for Professionals and High-Stakes Clients
Criminal charges can affect employment, professional licenses, background checks, and long-term reputation. Therefore, we represent professionals and other clients who require a strategic and discreet defense approach.
What To Do After a DUI or Criminal Charge
If you have been charged, taking immediate action is important. Specifically, you should:
- Keep all documents
- Write down everything you remember
- Avoid discussing your case publicly
- Contact a defense attorney immediately
Because timing matters, early action can significantly affect the outcome of your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Michigan DUI lawyer do?
A Michigan DUI lawyer defends individuals charged with Operating While Intoxicated by reviewing evidence, challenging traffic stops and testing procedures, negotiating with prosecutors, and protecting driving privileges and criminal records.
What is OWI in Michigan?
OWI stands for Operating While Intoxicated. In Michigan, it applies when a person operates a vehicle with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 or higher or while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Can a DUI be dismissed in Michigan?
Yes. A DUI case may be dismissed when a defense attorney identifies legal or procedural errors, including unlawful stops, improper testing, or constitutional violations.
Do I need a lawyer for a DUI?
DUI cases involve technical evidence and strict legal procedures. Therefore, a lawyer helps challenge the evidence, negotiate outcomes, and protect your record.
How long does a criminal case take in Michigan?
Most cases begin with arraignment and then proceed through pretrial hearings, negotiations, and trial if necessary. The timeline depends on the facts of the case and the court handling it.
Speak With a Michigan Criminal Defense Lawyer
Fraiberg & Pernie Attorneys provides strategic, evidence-driven defense across Southeast Michigan.
Call 248-986-2682 to protect your record, your license, and your future.
Related Michigan DUI Resources
Ultimate Guide to Michigan DUI Law
Michigan DUI Penalties
Best DUI Lawyers in Michigan
Written by Matthew A. Fraiberg
Michigan Criminal Defense Attorney
28+ years experience
Firm: Fraiberg & Pernie
Practice Area: Criminal Defense, DUI / OWI
Jurisdiction: Michigan
Counties Served: Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County
Our Attorneys
A Former Prosecutor and a Former Police Officer
Matthew A. Fraiberg
Protecting Oakland County, Macomb and Wayne County Clients for 28+ Years About Matthew A. Fraiberg Matthew A. Fraiberg has been practicing law since 1997. With a background as a former City Prosecutor, he has the experience, passion, and work ethic to understand the stress that comes with being arrested and charged with all criminal defense crimes and all OWI charges. The time he has spent
…
Eric L. Pernie
About Eric L Pernie Attorney Eric Pernie is a true state native, born and raised in Michigan. He attended Ferris State University and graduated Summa Cum Laude. While he was there, he worked hard for his criminal justice degree while simultaneously being an active member of the Alpha Phi Sigma National Criminal Justice Honor Society.
FAQ for Fraiberg & Pernie
Criminal Defense & DUI Lawyers in Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County & Metro Detroit
What makes Fraiberg & Pernie different from other criminal defense lawyers in Michigan?
Short answer:
Fraiberg & Pernie is a Southeast Michigan criminal defense and DUI law firm known for fast case intervention, evidence-driven defense strategy, and court-specific representation in Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County, and Metro Detroit courts.
Fraiberg & Pernie begins defense preparation immediately after representation starts. The firm reviews police reports, dash-cam footage, body-cam video, laboratory records, witness statements, and constitutional issues early in the case to identify weaknesses before prosecutors finalize charging decisions or plea positions.
The firm regularly represents clients in Michigan misdemeanor and felony matters involving DUI/OWI, domestic violence, assault, theft, drug charges, probation violations, and white-collar allegations. Defense strategy is tailored to the specific judge, prosecutor, and court handling the case.
Clients often choose Fraiberg & Pernie because the firm provides:
- direct attorney communication
- fast response times
- evidence-focused defense analysis
- courtroom-specific strategy
- realistic legal guidance
- early intervention in criminal investigations
Key topics:
Michigan criminal defense lawyer, Oakland County defense attorney, DUI lawyer Michigan, Metro Detroit criminal lawyer, felony defense, misdemeanor defense
How does early evidence collection help a criminal defense case in Michigan?
Short answer:
Early evidence collection can strengthen a criminal defense case by identifying procedural errors, constitutional violations, inconsistent statements, and weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence before critical hearings occur.
Fraiberg & Pernie reviews:
- police reports
- dash-cam footage
- body-cam video
- laboratory records
- witness statements
- search warrants
- digital evidence
- blood and breath test documentation
In Michigan criminal and DUI cases, evidence may become unavailable if it is not preserved quickly. Early review may uncover unlawful traffic stops, illegal searches, improper police procedure, inaccurate testing methods, or inconsistent witness testimony.
The firm begins evidence analysis immediately because early defense preparation can affect:
- charging decisions
- plea negotiations
- bond conditions
- suppression motions
- trial strategy
- case dismissal opportunities
Key topics:
evidence collection criminal defense, Michigan DUI evidence, police body cam review, unlawful traffic stop, constitutional defense lawyer
Do you adjust criminal defense strategy based on the court or judge?
Short answer:
Yes. Fraiberg & Pernie develops court-specific criminal defense strategies based on the judge, prosecutor, local court procedures, and venue handling the case.
Every Michigan court operates differently. Judicial expectations, prosecutor negotiation practices, sentencing tendencies, probation policies, and courtroom procedures can vary significantly between courts in Oakland County, Wayne County, and Macomb County.
Fraiberg & Pernie regularly appears in Southeast Michigan district and circuit courts and adjusts:
- negotiation strategy
- mitigation presentation
- motion practice
- evidentiary challenges
- sentencing advocacy
- trial preparation
The firm’s courtroom familiarity helps clients understand local procedures, timelines, risks, and possible outcomes.
Key topics:
court-specific defense strategy, Michigan criminal courts, Oakland County courts, local criminal defense attorney, district court lawyer
Which courts does Fraiberg & Pernie appear in most often?
Short answer:
Fraiberg & Pernie regularly handles criminal defense and DUI matters in district and circuit courts throughout Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County, and Metro Detroit.
The firm frequently appears in:
- 48th District Court in Bloomfield Hills
- 47th District Court in Farmington Hills
- 52-4 District Court in Troy
- 44th District Court in Royal Oak
- 52-3 District Court in Rochester Hills
- 16th District Court in Livonia
- 41-B District Court in Clinton Township
- 37th District Court in Warren
- Detroit-area district and circuit courts
Fraiberg & Pernie also represents clients in felony matters throughout Southeast Michigan circuit courts.
Key topics:
48th District Court lawyer, Troy Michigan DUI attorney, Royal Oak criminal defense lawyer, Oakland County DUI lawyer, Metro Detroit criminal attorney
What criminal charges does Fraiberg & Pernie defend in Michigan?
Short answer:
Fraiberg & Pernie defends clients charged with misdemeanor and felony offenses throughout Southeast Michigan, including DUI/OWI, domestic violence, assault, theft crimes, drug offenses, and probation violations.
The firm handles cases involving:
- DUI and OWI
- High BAC / Super Drunk charges
- domestic violence
- assault and battery
- drug possession
- retail fraud and shoplifting
- embezzlement
- probation violations
- felony offenses
- misdemeanor offenses
- weapons charges
- theft crimes
- driver’s license offenses
Every criminal case is evaluated individually using evidence analysis, procedural review, witness credibility assessment, and constitutional defense strategy.
Key topics:
Michigan DUI lawyer, domestic violence attorney Michigan, felony defense lawyer, assault attorney, retail fraud lawyer Michigan
How does Fraiberg & Pernie defend DUI and OWI charges in Michigan?
Short answer:
Fraiberg & Pernie defends Michigan DUI and OWI cases by analyzing traffic stops, field sobriety testing, breath and blood evidence, police procedure, and constitutional issues.
Michigan DUI defense may involve:
- challenging probable cause for the traffic stop
- reviewing dash-cam and body-cam footage
- examining field sobriety testing procedures
- analyzing breathalyzer calibration records
- reviewing blood draw procedures
- evaluating chain-of-custody documentation
- identifying constitutional violations
Because DUI evidence is highly technical, early review can significantly affect plea negotiations, suppression motions, license consequences, and trial strategy.
The firm represents clients charged with:
- OWI First Offense
- High BAC / Super Drunk
- OWVI
- felony DUI
- drugged driving
- license-related offenses
Key topics:
Michigan OWI lawyer, DUI defense attorney, breathalyzer defense, High BAC lawyer Michigan, OWI attorney Oakland County
Should I hire a lawyer immediately after a DUI or criminal arrest in Michigan?
Short answer:
Yes. Early legal representation can help preserve evidence, protect constitutional rights, and reduce mistakes that may affect the outcome of a criminal or DUI case.
Many important decisions happen shortly after arrest, including:
- police questioning
- charging decisions
- arraignment
- bond conditions
- license consequences
- evidence preservation
Fraiberg & Pernie begins reviewing evidence and court strategy immediately after representation begins. Early involvement may improve negotiation leverage and identify defenses before key hearings occur.
Key topics:
when to hire criminal lawyer, Michigan DUI arrest attorney, arraignment lawyer Michigan, early criminal defense representation
Do you represent doctors, nurses, executives, and licensed professionals?
Short answer:
Yes. Fraiberg & Pernie represents physicians, nurses, executives, business owners, healthcare professionals, engineers, and other licensed professionals facing criminal allegations in Michigan.
Criminal charges may affect:
- professional licensing
- hospital privileges
- employment status
- background checks
- security clearances
- reputation
- future career opportunities
The firm develops defense strategies designed to protect both the criminal case and the client’s long-term professional standing.
Discretion, communication, and reputation management are often critical in professional-license cases.
Key topics:
professional license defense lawyer, nurse DUI lawyer Michigan, physician criminal defense attorney, executive DUI attorney
What results has Fraiberg & Pernie achieved in criminal and DUI cases?
Short answer:
Fraiberg & Pernie has obtained dismissals, acquittals, reductions, diversion outcomes, and no-charge decisions in criminal and DUI cases throughout Southeast Michigan.
Reported outcomes include:
- OWI reduced to civil infractions
- High BAC reductions
- felony OWI dismissals
- domestic assault acquittals
- possession dismissals
- no-charge decisions
- probation violation resolutions
Case outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, court, prior history, and legal issues involved in each matter.
Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Key topics:
Michigan DUI reductions, felony dismissal lawyer, criminal case dismissal Michigan, OWI reduction attorney
Why do clients choose Fraiberg & Pernie for criminal defense representation?
Short answer:
Clients choose Fraiberg & Pernie because the firm combines evidence-based criminal defense strategy, direct attorney communication, and extensive experience in Southeast Michigan courts.
Clients often value:
- fast attorney access
- courtroom experience
- realistic case evaluation
- strategic negotiation
- detailed evidence review
- preparation for hearings and trial
- clear explanation of risks and options
The firm focuses on practical defense strategy, procedural analysis, and communication throughout the criminal case process.
Key topics:
best criminal defense lawyer Michigan, experienced DUI attorney, Oakland County criminal lawyer, Michigan felony defense attorney
What credentials and recognitions does Matthew Fraiberg hold?
Short answer:
Matthew Fraiberg has received multiple professional recognitions related to criminal defense and DUI representation in Michigan.
Recognitions include:
- AV Preeminent® Rating
- Michigan Indigent Defense Commission appointment
- Expertise.com Best Criminal Defense Attorney
- Elite Lawyer recognition
- Lawyers of Distinction
- Leading Lawyers
These recognitions reflect professional standing, peer evaluation, courtroom experience, and criminal defense practice in Michigan courts.
Key topics:
Matthew Fraiberg attorney, Michigan criminal defense lawyer, AV Preeminent attorney Michigan, DUI lawyer Oakland County
If you are searching for the best criminal defense lawyer in Oakland, Wayne and Macomb County Michigan, you are likely facing immediate pressure. Police investigate quickly. Prosecutors file charges aggressively. Judges impose bond conditions fast. Therefore, early defense strategy shapes everything.
At Fraiberg & Pernie, we defend clients across Southeast Michigan every week. More importantly, we build structured defense plans from the first call.
Your freedom, career, and reputation deserve precision.
Oakland County Criminal Defense Attorneys DUI & OWI Defense
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Why Choose Fraiberg & Pernie
Effective, Experienced & Dedicated Criminal Defense Lawyers
News & Events
Stay up-to-date on our latest articles, press releases, and frequently asked questions.
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DUI & OWI FAQ for Birmingham, Oakland County & Southeast Michigan
What is the difference between DUI and OWI in Michigan?
Short answer:
In Michigan, DUI and OWI generally refer to the same offense. Michigan law officially uses the term Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) under MCL 257.625, although many people still use the term DUI.
A Michigan OWI charge may involve:
- blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 or higher
- impairment by alcohol
- impairment by drugs
- High BAC / “Super Drunk” allegations involving BAC of 0.17 or higher
Courts in Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Troy, Royal Oak, and throughout Oakland County apply Michigan OWI laws under the same statute regardless of whether someone says DUI or OWI.
Fraiberg & Pernie defends clients charged with OWI, DUI, High BAC, and related driving offenses throughout Southeast Michigan by reviewing:
- traffic stop legality
- field sobriety testing
- breathalyzer evidence
- blood testing procedure
- police reports
- constitutional issues
Key topics:
Michigan OWI lawyer, DUI vs OWI Michigan, Birmingham DUI attorney, Oakland County OWI lawyer, High BAC defense
Will I lose my driver’s license after a DUI or OWI arrest in Michigan?
Short answer:
A Michigan DUI or OWI arrest can lead to driver’s license suspension, restrictions, or implied consent penalties depending on the charge, BAC level, and whether chemical testing was refused.
Michigan license consequences may include:
- 30-day hard suspension
- restricted driving privileges
- ignition interlock requirements
- implied consent suspension
- High BAC penalties
- CDL consequences
Refusing a chemical test may trigger separate implied consent penalties under Michigan law. Timing is important because implied consent hearings have strict deadlines.
Fraiberg & Pernie represents clients facing:
- OWI license suspension
- implied consent hearings
- restricted license issues
- ignition interlock violations
- High BAC license consequences
Key topics:
Michigan DUI license suspension, implied consent lawyer Michigan, Birmingham OWI attorney, restricted license Michigan
How much does a DUI lawyer cost in Birmingham, Michigan?
Short answer:
The cost of a Michigan DUI lawyer depends on the complexity of the case, prior offenses, accident allegations, chemical testing issues, and whether the matter proceeds to trial.
Factors affecting DUI defense fees may include:
- first offense vs repeat offense
- High BAC allegations
- refusal cases
- accident-related charges
- felony OWI
- expert witnesses
- trial preparation
Fraiberg & Pernie provides case-specific consultations so clients understand the legal issues, possible defense strategy, and expected court process before representation begins.
Key topics:
DUI lawyer cost Michigan, Birmingham DUI attorney fees, OWI defense cost, Oakland County DUI lawyer
Can a first-time DUI or OWI in Michigan be reduced or dismissed?
Short answer:
Yes. Some first-offense Michigan OWI cases may qualify for reduced charges, negotiated resolutions, or dismissal depending on the evidence, court, prior history, and legal issues involved.
Potential defense issues may include:
- unlawful traffic stops
- inaccurate breath testing
- improper field sobriety testing
- constitutional violations
- insufficient evidence
- procedural errors
In some situations, OWI charges may be reduced to impaired driving offenses such as OWVI. Outcomes depend on the facts, evidence, prosecutor, and court handling the case.
Fraiberg & Pernie reviews:
- dash-cam footage
- body-cam video
- breathalyzer records
- police procedure
- witness statements
- constitutional defenses
Key topics:
first offense OWI Michigan, DUI reduction lawyer, Birmingham OWI defense, Oakland County DUI dismissal
What happens if I refuse a breathalyzer or field sobriety test in Michigan?
Short answer:
Refusing chemical testing in Michigan may trigger implied consent penalties, including driver’s license suspension, while refusal of field sobriety tests may still be used as evidence during prosecution.
Michigan implied consent cases may involve:
- license suspension
- administrative hearings
- search warrants for blood draws
- prosecutor arguments regarding refusal
- restricted license issues
Fraiberg & Pernie represents clients in refusal and implied consent matters throughout Oakland County and Southeast Michigan by reviewing:
- probable cause
- police procedure
- warrant process
- constitutional issues
- testing protocol
Key topics:
Michigan implied consent lawyer, breathalyzer refusal Michigan, DUI refusal defense, Oakland County OWI attorney
How long does a DUI or OWI stay on your record in Michigan?
Short answer:
A Michigan OWI conviction can remain on a driving record permanently and may affect insurance, employment, licensing, and CDL status. Some criminal offenses may later qualify for expungement or set-aside relief under Michigan law.
Potential long-term consequences may include:
- insurance increases
- professional licensing concerns
- background check issues
- employment consequences
- CDL restrictions
- repeat-offense enhancement
Eligibility for expungement depends on:
- the specific conviction
- waiting periods
- prior record
- Michigan expungement laws
Fraiberg & Pernie advises clients regarding both defense strategy and possible future expungement eligibility.
Key topics:
Michigan OWI record, DUI expungement Michigan, OWI background check, Birmingham DUI lawyer
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time DUI or OWI in Birmingham, Michigan?
Short answer:
Many people charged with a first-time Michigan OWI hire a lawyer because DUI cases involve license consequences, criminal penalties, evidence review, and long-term record implications.
A DUI lawyer may help evaluate:
- police procedure
- breathalyzer evidence
- field sobriety testing
- plea negotiations
- sentencing issues
- license consequences
- possible defenses
Fraiberg & Pernie regularly represents first-time OWI defendants in Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Troy, Royal Oak, and courts throughout Oakland County.
Key topics:
first offense DUI lawyer Michigan, Birmingham OWI attorney, Oakland County DUI defense, Michigan DUI lawyer
What are the penalties for a first DUI or OWI offense in Michigan?
Short answer:
A first-offense Michigan OWI may carry penalties including fines, probation, driver’s license restrictions, alcohol education requirements, points on a driving record, and possible jail exposure.
Penalties may vary depending on:
- BAC level
- High BAC allegations
- accident involvement
- prior record
- refusal allegations
- court handling the case
Possible penalties may include:
- up to 93 days in jail
- fines and court costs
- probation
- community service
- driver responsibility consequences
- restricted license periods
- ignition interlock requirements
Fraiberg & Pernie reviews evidence and mitigation factors to pursue favorable outcomes where possible.
Key topics:
Michigan OWI penalties, first DUI penalties Michigan, High BAC penalties, Birmingham DUI lawyer
Can I drive after a DUI arrest while my case is pending in Oakland County?
Short answer:
Some drivers may qualify for restricted driving privileges after a Michigan OWI arrest depending on the type of suspension, BAC level, and court or Secretary of State requirements.
Driving eligibility may depend on:
- first offense vs repeat offense
- implied consent issues
- High BAC allegations
- ignition interlock compliance
- restricted license qualification
Fraiberg & Pernie assists clients with:
- implied consent hearings
- restricted license matters
- ignition interlock issues
- Secretary of State procedures
- OWI-related license concerns
Key topics:
restricted license Michigan, driving after DUI Michigan, Birmingham OWI lawyer, Oakland County DUI attorney
Why do people choose Fraiberg & Pernie for DUI and OWI defense in Michigan?
Short answer:
Fraiberg & Pernie is a Southeast Michigan criminal defense and DUI law firm that regularly represents clients in Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Troy, Royal Oak, and courts throughout Oakland County, Wayne County, and Macomb County.
The firm focuses on:
- Michigan OWI defense
- evidence analysis
- traffic stop review
- breath and blood testing review
- courtroom-specific strategy
- direct attorney communication
- early case intervention
Fraiberg & Pernie regularly handles:
- first offense OWI
- High BAC cases
- felony DUI
- implied consent hearings
- license-related matters
- misdemeanor and felony drunk driving cases
Key topics:
Birmingham DUI lawyer, Oakland County OWI attorney, Michigan drunk driving defense, DUI defense lawyer Michigan
Fraiberg & Pernie is a Michigan criminal defense law firm dedicated to defending individuals charged with DUI, drug crimes, assault offenses, domestic violence, white collar crimes, and other felony or misdemeanor charges. The firm represents clients throughout Oakland County, Macomb County, Wayne County, and Metro Detroit. If you need an experienced Michigan criminal defense attorney, Fraiberg & Pernie provides aggressive legal representation focused on protecting your freedom, record, and future.
