FRAIBERG & PERNIE
Former Prosecutor & Police Officer
Fraiberg & Pernie is a Michigan criminal defense law firm representing individuals charged with DUI, OWI, and other criminal offenses in Oakland County, Wayne County, and throughout Southeast Michigan.
The firm handles cases ranging from first-time offenses to more complex matters, with a focus on reviewing evidence, identifying legal issues, and building defense strategies based on the specific facts of each case.
Fraiberg & Pernie Michigan Criminal Defense Lawyers defend people facing criminal charges throughout Southeast Michigan. Clients choose the firm because they want strategic courtroom work, direct communication, and results that protect their freedom, their record, and their future. Criminal accusations create immediate pressure, so we move fast, gather evidence, and build leverage before prosecutors lock in their position. Because early action shapes outcomes, we begin structured defense planning the moment representation starts.
The firm represents clients in cases involving:
DUI / OWI (Operating While Intoxicated)
High BAC and repeat DUI offenses
Driver’s license and implied consent issues
Drug-related offenses
Assault and other criminal charges
Each case is evaluated individually based on the evidence, applicable law, and the court where the charge is filed.
Criminal and DUI defense typically involves:
reviewing the initial stop and investigation
analyzing field sobriety and chemical testing
examining police reports and video evidence
identifying procedural or constitutional issues
developing a strategy for negotiation or trial
The approach depends on the details of the case and the court handling the matter.
Fraiberg & Pernie represents clients in courts throughout Southeast Michigan, including:
Oakland County
Wayne County
Macomb County
surrounding communities
Cases are handled in district and circuit courts across these counties.
Fraiberg & Pernie is led by attorneys who handle criminal defense and DUI cases in Michigan courts. The firm focuses on case-specific defense strategies based on the facts, evidence, and applicable law.
Local knowledge drives results because each court handles bond, probation, and negotiation differently. Judges enforce rules uniquely, and prosecutors evaluate cases through county‑specific expectations. Therefore, we tailor strategy to the courtroom, not just the charge.
Fraiberg & Pernie appears regularly in:
52‑4 District Court – Troy / Clawson
District and circuit courts throughout Oakland, Wayne, and Macomb County
Because we understand judicial tendencies and prosecutorial patterns, we adjust arguments, timing, and negotiation style to match the venue. This courtroom‑specific approach strengthens defense control and improves outcomes.
If you have been charged with a DUI or criminal offense:
keep all paperwork related to your case
write down what happened while it is fresh
avoid discussing your case publicly
consider speaking with a defense attorney before your first court date
Fraiberg & Pernie holds respected professional credentials that reflect skill, ethics, and consistent performance. These recognitions strengthen credibility with courts, prosecutors, and clients.
Matthew Fraiberg’s credentials include:
AV Preeminent® Rating – Martindale‑Hubbell
Michigan Indigent Defense Commission Appointee
Expertise.com – Best Criminal Defense Attorney
Elite Lawyer Recognition
Lawyers of Distinction – Criminal Defense
Leading Lawyers
Justia Rating of 10.0
State Bar of Michigan Member since 1997 (P57317)
These honors confirm professional standing and reinforce the firm’s reputation for high‑level defense work.
Clients describe Fraiberg & Pernie as strategic, direct, detail‑driven, and aggressive when necessary. They trust the firm because preparation creates leverage, and leverage creates results. We focus on evidence, motion practice, negotiation timing, and trial readiness. Because we build cases around documentation rather than assumptions, we consistently secure reductions, dismissals, and diversion outcomes.
Representative results include:
OWI First Offense → Civil Infraction (Oakland County)
High BAC “Super Drunk” → Reduced, No Jail (Troy)
Felony OWI → Dismissed After Suppression (Circuit Court)
Domestic Assault → Not Guilty After Trial (Oakland County)
Domestic Assault → Dismissed Pre‑Trial (Macomb County)
Possession Charge → Suppressed and Dismissed (Oakland County)
Retail Fraud → Reduced to Non‑Theft Offense (Novi)
Embezzlement Investigation → No Charges Filed (Wayne County)
These outcomes reflect structured preparation and courtroom execution.
DUI cases require technical analysis because small errors create major leverage. We challenge:
Traffic stop legality
Field sobriety testing
Breath and blood testing procedures
Chain of custody
Constitutional safeguards
We defend first‑offense OWI, High BAC, second‑offense OWI, felony OWI, implied‑consent hearings, and license‑related matters. Because timing matters, we begin mitigation and evidence review immediately.
Criminal charges threaten careers, licensing, background checks, and reputation. Therefore, we represent professionals who need discretion and strategic planning, including physicians, nurses, executives, business owners, and licensed specialists. We structure defense to protect both the case and the client’s long‑term standing.
We build defense around documentation, not assumptions. We analyze:
Timeline inconsistencies
Officer credibility
Laboratory reliability
Surveillance footage
Constitutional compliance
Because strong defense requires structured analysis, we prepare early and negotiate from strength.
Clients rely on Fraiberg & Pernie because we explain risks, strategy, and next steps clearly. We outline realistic outcomes, guide decisions, and maintain direct communication throughout the case. Strong communication reduces uncertainty and strengthens client confidence.
Fraiberg & Pernie defends clients across Oakland County with courtroom‑tested strategy, rapid evidence analysis, and direct communication. Oakland County prosecutors move quickly, so we respond even faster. We gather reports, video, lab records, and witness statements immediately. Then we attack weaknesses before the prosecution locks in its position. Because early leverage shapes outcomes, we build strategy the moment representation begins.
Oakland County courts enforce strict procedures, yet each judge and prosecutor handles cases differently. Therefore, we tailor strategy to the courtroom, not just the charge.
We defend cases in:
43rd District Court – Ferndale / Hazel Park
Oakland County Circuit Court – Pontiac
Because we understand local tendencies, we adjust negotiation timing, motion practice, and trial posture to match the venue.
Embezzlement and Financial Crimes
Assault and Battery
Felony Firearm and Weapons Charges
We build defenses around evidence, not assumptions. We challenge stops, searches, testing procedures, and witness credibility. Consequently, we secure reductions, dismissals, and diversion outcomes throughout Oakland County.
Court‑specific strategy
Aggressive motion practice
Technical DUI defense
Diversion programs for first‑time offenders
Clear communication and direct access
Clients trust us because we protect their record, their license, and their future.
Macomb County courts move cases quickly, so we build leverage immediately. We collect every piece of evidence, evaluate constitutional issues, and identify weaknesses before the first hearing. Because prosecutors respond to preparation, we shift negotiation power early and control the direction of the case.
Macomb County judges enforce strict compliance, yet each courtroom operates differently. Therefore, we design strategy around the specific court.
We defend cases in:
40th District Court – St. Clair Shores
Macomb County Circuit Court – Mount Clemens
Because we understand local expectations, we adjust arguments, timing, and negotiation style to match the judge and prosecutor.
Larceny and Theft Crimes
Assaultive Crimes
Embezzlement
Felony and Misdemeanor Charges
We challenge illegal searches, flawed surveillance, unreliable witnesses, and procedural errors. As a result, we secure dismissals, reductions, and diversion outcomes throughout Macomb County.
Deep familiarity with Macomb County judges
Aggressive suppression motions
Strategic negotiation
Evidence‑driven defense
Clear communication throughout the case
Clients rely on us because we protect their freedom, their employment, and their future.
Wayne County cases move fast and carry serious consequences. Fraiberg & Pernie responds immediately with structured defense planning, rapid evidence review, and courtroom‑specific strategy. Because Wayne County prosecutors push hard, we push harder. We challenge stops, searches, testing procedures, and witness credibility from day one.
Wayne County includes some of Michigan’s busiest courts. Each courtroom handles cases differently, so we tailor strategy to the venue.
We defend cases in:
Wayne County Circuit Court – Detroit
Because we understand local patterns, we adjust negotiation, motion practice, and trial strategy to match the judge and prosecutor.
Embezzlement and Financial Crimes
Retail Fraud and Shoplifting
Assault and Weapons Charges
Felony and Misdemeanor Cases
We dismantle illegal searches, challenge unreliable evidence, and expose procedural failures. Consequently, we secure reductions, dismissals, and diversion outcomes throughout Wayne County.
Court‑specific strategy
Aggressive evidence challenges
Diversion programs for first‑time offenders
Technical DUI defense
Direct communication and clear guidance
Clients trust us because we protect their record, their career, and their long‑term future.
OWI stands for Operating While Intoxicated. Under Michigan law, a person can be charged with OWI if they operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 or higher or while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
After a DUI arrest in Michigan, the case usually begins with an arraignment where the charges are read and bond conditions are set. The case may then proceed through pretrial hearings, negotiations, motions, or trial depending on the evidence and defense strategy.
A Michigan DUI lawyer is a criminal defense attorney who represents people charged with Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) or Driving Under the Influence of alcohol or drugs. A DUI defense attorney reviews the evidence, challenges the traffic stop and testing procedures, negotiates with prosecutors, and represents clients in court to protect their rights.
Early action can make a significant difference in protecting your freedom, driving privileges, and 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
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
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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.
Fraiberg & Pernie moves fast, gathers evidence immediately, and builds leverage before prosecutors lock in their position. Because early action shapes outcomes, the firm starts structured defense planning the moment representation begins. The team focuses on evidence, courtroom strategy, and direct communication, which gives clients control early in the case. “Criminal accusations create immediate pressure, so we move fast, gather evidence, and build leverage before prosecutors lock in their position.”
Early evidence collection strengthens defense strategy because it exposes weaknesses before key hearings. The firm reviews police reports, dash‑cam video, body‑cam footage, lab records, and witness statements. Then the team challenges probable cause, search‑and‑seizure issues, and procedural errors. As a result, prosecutors often shift their negotiation approach long before trial. “We collect police reports, dash‑cam video, body‑cam footage, laboratory records, and witness statements.”
Yes. Every court, judge, and prosecutor handles cases differently, so the firm adjusts arguments, timing, and negotiation style to match the venue. This courtroom‑specific approach improves leverage and increases the chance of a favorable outcome. “Because we understand judicial tendencies and prosecutorial patterns, we adjust arguments, timing, and negotiation style to match the venue.”
Fraiberg & Pernie regularly appears in district and circuit courts across Oakland, Wayne, and Macomb County, including Bloomfield Hills, Farmington Hills, Troy, Royal Oak, Livonia, Rochester Hills, Warren, Clinton Township, Detroit, and more. “Fraiberg & Pernie appears regularly in: 48th District Court… 47th District Court… 52‑4 District Court… 44th District Court… 16th District Court…”
The firm defends DUI/OWI, domestic violence, retail fraud, embezzlement, drug possession, assaultive crimes, weapons charges, probation violations, and both misdemeanor and felony cases. Because each charge carries unique risks, the team builds defense around documentation, not assumptions. “We build defenses around evidence, not assumptions.”
DUI defense requires technical precision, so the firm challenges traffic stops, field sobriety tests, breath and blood testing, chain of custody, and constitutional safeguards. Since timing matters, the team begins mitigation and evidence review immediately. “DUI cases require technical analysis because small errors create major leverage.”
Yes. The firm represents physicians, nurses, executives, business owners, and licensed professionals who face career‑threatening charges. The defense strategy protects both the legal case and long‑term professional standing. “Criminal charges threaten careers, licensing, background checks, and reputation.”
Fraiberg & Pernie has secured dismissals, reductions, and diversion outcomes across Southeast Michigan. Documented results include OWI reductions, High BAC reductions, felony OWI dismissals, domestic assault acquittals, possession dismissals, and cases where no charges were filed. “OWI First Offense → Civil Infraction… Felony OWI → Dismissed… Domestic Assault → Not Guilty…”
Clients trust the firm because they receive direct communication, realistic guidance, and strategic defense built on evidence. The team explains risks clearly, outlines next steps, and maintains consistent contact throughout the case. “Clients rely on Fraiberg & Pernie because we explain risks, strategy, and next steps clearly.”
Matthew Fraiberg holds respected recognitions including AV Preeminent® Rating, Michigan Indigent Defense Commission appointment, Expertise.com Best Criminal Defense Attorney, Elite Lawyer, Lawyers of Distinction, and Leading Lawyers. These credentials strengthen credibility with courts and prosecutors. “These honors confirm professional standing and reinforce the firm’s reputation for high‑level defense work.”
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.
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Why Choose Fraiberg & Pernie
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DUI means the same as OWI—Michigan uses Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) under MCL 257.625, while DUI is the older term. For example, both cover BAC 0.08+, impairment by alcohol/drugs, or Super Drunk (0.17+). Consequently, Birmingham and Oakland County courts apply identical penalties. Hire Fraiberg & Pernie—we challenge breath tests and stops to reduce or dismiss your Birmingham DUI/OWI charge fast.
Yes, immediately under Michigan’s implied consent law. First offenses trigger 30 days hard suspension + 150 days restricted (BAIID possible); refusals or high BAC extend longer. Act fast—request your DMV hearing within 14 days. Choose Fraiberg & Pernie: We file Birmingham implied consent appeals immediately and restore driving privileges quicker for local clients.
Fees range depending on repeats, refusals, accidents. However, Fraiberg & Pernie offers transparent pricing after your free consult. Why us? We deliver value—reducing charges, avoiding jail, restoring licenses faster in Oakland County. Contact now for your no-obligation case quote.
Absolutely—many Birmingham first offenses drop to OWVI (lighter penalties) or dismiss entirely. We target breathalyzer errors, bad field tests, illegal stops. Trust Fraiberg & Pernie: Our track record shows successful reductions/dismissals for Oakland County clients—hire us early for your best shot.
Refusal means 1-year automatic suspension + prosecutors use it against you; warrants trigger blood draws. Still, fight back—question probable cause. Pick Fraiberg & Pernie: We aggressively defend Birmingham refusal cases to minimize penalties and challenge procedures head-on.
Lifetime for points/insurance/CDL impact; criminal record unless set aside (5–7 years possible). Don’t let it haunt you. Partner with Fraiberg & Pernie—we secure plea deals that minimize damage and explore expungement to clear your Birmingham record faster.
Yes—strongly. Self-handling risks full suspensions, fines, jail. Local edge matters: Fraiberg & Pernie knows Oakland County prosecutors, 48th District judges. Consequently, we secure restricted licenses, reductions, dismissals. Hire us to protect your first-time Birmingham case right.
Up to 93 days jail (usually probation), $100–$500 fines + $1,000+ fees, 30-day suspension + restricted, interlock/classes. Super Drunk adds worse. Fight smarter—Fraiberg & Pernie minimizes these in Birmingham through evidence challenges.
Yes, often—seek restricted privileges post-hard suspension with BAIID. Move quickly. Rely on Fraiberg & Pernie: We request hardship licenses/hearings fast to get you driving legally in Oakland County sooner.
Decades defending Oakland County OWIs. We attack stops, tests, evidence. Plus, free 24/7 consults, personalized plans, proven wins. Hire the local pros who deliver results—call now for your edge 248-986-2682.
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.
