FRAIBERG & PERNIE
Fraiberg & Pernie is a Michigan criminal defense law firm representing clients charged with DUI and OWI offenses, probation violations, domestic violence, drug crimes, theft offenses, assault charges, and suspended license matters in the 47th District Court in Farmington Hills, Michigan.
Michigan criminal defense attorney Matthew Fraiberg regularly represents clients in the 47th District Court and throughout Oakland County.
If you were charged with a crime in Farmington Hills or Farmington, call Fraiberg & Pernie immediately at (248) 986-2682 for a confidential consultation.
The 47th District Court handles:
misdemeanor criminal charges
traffic-related criminal cases
felony preliminary examinations
The earliest stages of the case — especially arraignment, bond conditions, and pretrial proceedings — often significantly affect the outcome.
Early preparation is important.
Matthew Fraiberg is a Michigan criminal defense attorney and managing partner of Fraiberg & Pernie.
Michigan attorney since 1997
Former city prosecutor
Former judicial clerk
Extensive Oakland County criminal defense experience
Representation throughout Southeast Michigan district courts
Matthew Fraiberg regularly handles:
DUI and OWI defense
domestic violence cases
probation violations
assault charges
theft and retail fraud cases
drug possession offenses
suspended license matters
felony preliminary examinations
“The earliest stages of a criminal case often influence probation conditions, negotiations, and sentencing exposure. Early preparation can significantly affect how the case develops.”
— Matthew A. Fraiberg
If you were charged with a crime in Farmington Hills or Farmington:
Do not answer police questions without legal counsel
Keep all bond paperwork and court notices
Follow bond conditions carefully
Avoid discussing the case publicly
Prepare for arraignment and probation interviews
Contact a Michigan criminal defense lawyer immediately
Early legal strategy can significantly affect:
bond conditions
probation requirements
negotiation opportunities
sentencing exposure
The 47th District Court handles a wide range of criminal and DUI matters, including:
DUI and OWI offenses
High BAC drunk driving charges
Domestic violence cases
Drug possession charges
Retail fraud and theft offenses
Assault and battery charges
Driving While License Suspended (DWLS)
Probation violations
Misdemeanor criminal offenses
Felony preliminary examinations
Each case follows its own facts, evidence, and procedural issues.
During arraignment:
charges are formally presented
bond conditions are set
future court dates are scheduled
Bond conditions may include:
alcohol testing
drug testing
reporting requirements
travel restrictions
no-contact conditions
The arraignment stage often affects the direction of the entire case.
During pretrial hearings, attorneys may:
review evidence
negotiate with prosecutors
identify legal issues
challenge procedural defects
discuss possible resolutions
Many criminal cases are significantly influenced during the pretrial phase.
Defense attorneys may raise issues involving:
illegal traffic stops
unlawful searches and seizures
constitutional violations
evidentiary weaknesses
witness credibility problems
improper police procedures
Procedural and evidentiary issues can significantly affect criminal cases.
Most misdemeanor charges remain in the 47th District Court through sentencing.
Felony matters may proceed to Oakland County Circuit Court after a preliminary examination.
The district court determines whether probable cause exists for the felony case to continue.
The 47th District Court is known for:
structured probation conditions
active case management
careful compliance monitoring
detailed probation oversight
close attention to DUI cases
Because of these practices, preparation before:
probation interviews
alcohol assessments
pretrial hearings
sentencing proceedings
can significantly affect outcomes.
DUI and OWI cases in Farmington Hills often involve both:
criminal penalties
Michigan driver’s license consequences
Important areas of review may include:
police reports
dashcam and bodycam evidence
Many DUI cases depend heavily on technical evidence and procedural compliance.
In many Michigan criminal and DUI cases, the Pre-Sentence Investigation (PSI) significantly affects sentencing.
The PSI may evaluate:
criminal history
substance use history
employment background
personal history
risk assessment scores
rehabilitation concerns
Judges frequently rely heavily on PSI recommendations.
Preparation before the PSI interview is extremely important.
Every criminal case is different, and prior results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Examples of case outcomes may include:
DUI charges reduced after evidentiary review
probation violations resolved without jail
domestic violence charges dismissed after credibility issues were identified
theft-related charges resolved through restitution agreements
negotiated resolutions reducing long-term consequences
Preparation and evidence analysis often influence outcomes significantly.
Yes. The court is known for structured probation conditions and close compliance monitoring.
Sometimes. Outcomes depend on the evidence, legal issues, court practices, and negotiation strategy.
The judge formally presents the charges, sets bond conditions, and schedules future hearings.
Yes. Preparation before probation interviews is strongly recommended.
Yes. Michigan OWI cases frequently involve both criminal penalties and driver’s license consequences.
Most felony cases proceed to circuit court after a preliminary examination.
Fraiberg & Pernie represents clients throughout:
Farmington Hills
Farmington
Novi
West Bloomfield
Birmingham
Troy
Bloomfield Township
Southfield
Royal Oak
Clients throughout Oakland County choose Fraiberg & Pernie because the firm provides:
strategic criminal defense representation
direct attorney communication
extensive local court experience
evidence-focused defense preparation
aggressive negotiation strategy
structured DUI defense planning
strong understanding of Oakland County courts
The firm focuses on protecting:
criminal records
driving privileges
employment opportunities
professional licenses
long-term future
If you are facing criminal charges in the 47th District Court in Farmington Hills, understanding the process and preparing early is important.
Fraiberg & Pernie represents clients throughout Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County, and Southeast Michigan in criminal defense and DUI matters.
Call (248) 986-2682 today for a confidential consultation with Michigan criminal defense attorney Matthew Fraiberg.
Early legal strategy can significantly affect your criminal case, probation conditions, license consequences, and future.
Call (248) 986-2682 today to discuss your Michigan DUI defense.
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 Fraiberg
Michigan Criminal Defense Attorney
28+ years experience
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If you face a criminal charge in Farmington Hills, Michigan, you likely have urgent questions. First, you want to know the risk. Next, you want to know your options. Therefore, this Farmington Hills criminal defense FAQ gives direct answers. Fraiberg & Pernie defend misdemeanor and felony cases in Farmington Hills and throughout Oakland County, especially in the 47th District Court and Oakland County Circuit Court. Most importantly, we focus on fast, strategic defense.
Fraiberg & Pernie defend a wide range of criminal charges in Farmington Hills and Oakland County. First, we handle misdemeanors. Next, we defend felony cases. In addition, we appear regularly in the 47th District Court and Oakland County Circuit Court. Because each court applies different procedures, local experience matters.
We defend charges such as:
Assault and battery
Domestic violence
Drug possession and delivery
Theft and larceny
Weapons offenses
Fraud and financial crimes
Probation violations
First, we test the evidence. Next, we review police procedures. Then, we raise constitutional challenges when appropriate. As a result, we pursue dismissals, reductions, or acquittals through motions, negotiation, or trial.
Yes — and you should hire one early. Even misdemeanor charges can lead to jail, fines, probation, and a lasting record. Moreover, convictions often affect jobs and housing. Therefore, self-representation creates serious risk.
Instead, a defense lawyer protects your rights from the start. Fraiberg & Pernie know Farmington Hills prosecutors, 47th District Court judges, and local court practices. Because of that, we often secure stronger plea terms, reduced charges, or dismissals. Early representation, therefore, improves outcomes.
Costs vary by charge and complexity. First, felony cases usually cost more than misdemeanors. Next, trial-ready cases require more work than negotiated resolutions. As a result, fees differ case by case.
We start with a free consultation. Then, we review the facts. Next, we give transparent pricing. In other words, you understand scope and cost upfront. Strong defense protects your future — not just your current case.
Yes — quite often with early defense work. First, we look for illegal searches. Next, we challenge probable cause. In addition, we test evidence quality and witness credibility. Then, we file targeted motions.
Many Farmington Hills cases reduce from felony to misdemeanor. Others dismiss entirely. However, timing matters. Fraiberg & Pernie build early defense leverage through investigation and motion practice. Consequently, prosecutors often reassess weaker cases.
First, police may take you to jail. Next, the court sets bond and conditions. Often, judges issue no-contact or protective orders. Therefore, personal and family life can change immediately.
However, allegations are not proof. We respond quickly. First, we gather counter-evidence. Next, we review statements and video. Then, we challenge exaggerated or false claims. Fraiberg & Pernie fight these charges aggressively in the 47th District Court and push for dismissals or reductions whenever supported.
Most convictions stay permanently unless expunged. However, Michigan law allows many misdemeanors and some felonies to be set aside after waiting periods, often 3–7 years. Therefore, record strategy matters.
A record affects employment and licensing. Because of that, we aim first to avoid conviction. When needed, we help Farmington Hills clients pursue expungement eligibility and record clearing.
Penalties depend on charge level. Simple possession can mean up to one year in jail plus fines. By contrast, intent or delivery charges bring felony exposure and possible prison. Still, many first-time offenders qualify for diversion or probation.
We challenge searches, chain of custody, and lab testing. As a result, many drug cases reduce or dismiss.
Often yes. Courts may grant personal bond or cash/surety bond. We argue for reasonable terms and condition changes. Early bond advocacy helps you return home and prepare your defense effectively.
Experience and preparation drive results. With decades of defense experience — including former prosecutor and law enforcement insight — we challenge every part of the case. We serve Farmington Hills and Oakland County with personalized strategies, 24/7 consultations, and a strong record of dismissals and reductions.
First, remain silent. Next, request an attorney. Then, avoid discussing the case. After that, contact Fraiberg & Pernie right away. Early defense steps protect your rights and shape better outcomes.