Wayne County DUI & Criminal Defense Lawyers - Courts
Wayne County OWI Lawyer | DUI Defense Across Detroit, Livonia, Dearborn, Westland, Taylor, Canton & Local District Courts
Arrested for OWI or DUI in Wayne County, Michigan?
A DUI or OWI arrest in Wayne County can create immediate concerns about your driver’s license, employment, professional reputation, insurance rates, and future opportunities.
Whether your arrest occurred in Detroit, Livonia, Dearborn, Westland, Taylor, Canton, Plymouth, Romulus, Redford, Inkster, Downriver communities, or elsewhere in Wayne County, your case will likely move quickly through arraignment, bond conditions, evidence review, and pretrial proceedings.
Many people believe the outcome of a DUI case depends entirely on what happens at trial.
In reality, many OWI cases are shaped much earlier through evidence analysis, constitutional review, negotiations, and court-specific defense strategy.
Matthew A. Fraiberg is a Wayne County OWI lawyer and managing partner of Fraiberg & Pernie. For more than 28 years, he has represented individuals charged with DUI, OWI, High BAC DUI, drunk driving offenses, driver’s license matters, and criminal charges throughout Wayne County and Southeast Michigan.
Call 248-986-2682 today for a confidential consultation.
Who This Page Helps
This guide is designed for:
First-time DUI defendants
Drivers charged with OWI
Individuals accused of High BAC DUI
Commercial drivers
Nurses, physicians, attorneys, teachers, and licensed professionals
Individuals concerned about driver’s license consequences
Drivers facing ignition interlock requirements
Individuals arrested anywhere in Wayne County
If you are worried about your driver’s license, criminal record, employment, professional licensing, or future opportunities, understanding how Wayne County DUI cases are handled is important.
Why People Search for a Wayne County DUI Lawyer
After an arrest, most people are searching for answers to practical questions:
Will I lose my driver’s license?
Can a DUI charge be reduced?
Will I go to jail?
Can I keep my job?
Will this affect my professional license?
What happens at arraignment?
Should I hire a lawyer before my first court date?
The answers often depend on the evidence, legal issues, court procedures, and how quickly a defense strategy begins.
Because every case is different, early legal review frequently creates opportunities that may not exist later.
Matthew Fraiberg | Wayne County DUI & OWI Attorney
Matthew Fraiberg has practiced criminal law in Michigan since 1997 and has handled thousands of DUI and criminal defense matters throughout Southeast Michigan.
His professional background includes:
Former City Prosecutor
Former Judicial Clerk
Former Assistant Legal Research Clerk
More than 28 years of criminal defense experience
This experience provides insight into:
How prosecutors evaluate DUI cases
How judges assess evidence
How driver’s license consequences develop
How constitutional issues affect criminal cases
How local court procedures influence strategy
Matthew Fraiberg regularly represents clients throughout Wayne County district courts and develops defense strategies based on how judges, prosecutors, and probation departments evaluate DUI matters.
Why Early Case Review Matters
The earliest stage of a DUI case is often one of the most important.
Evidence can disappear.
Video footage may be overwritten.
Witness memories may fade.
Driver’s license consequences may begin.
Early legal involvement may allow:
Preservation of body-camera footage
Preservation of dash-camera footage
Review of breath-testing procedures
Review of blood-testing procedures
Constitutional analysis
Driver’s license protection
Strategic negotiations
Many opportunities are created early—and lost early.
Wayne County Courts Handling OWI and DUI Cases
OWI and DUI cases are assigned based on where the arrest occurred.
Common courts include:
36th District Court – Detroit
One of Michigan’s busiest courts, handling a large volume of criminal and drunk driving cases.
16th District Court – Livonia
Known for structured supervision and close monitoring of compliance.
17th District Court – Redford
Frequently handles OWI and criminal traffic matters.
18th District Court – Westland
Regularly manages DUI, High BAC, and alcohol-related driving offenses.
19th District Court – Dearborn
Known for active probation oversight and structured case management.
20th District Court – Dearborn Heights
Handles a wide variety of DUI and criminal traffic cases.
21st District Court – Inkster
Frequently oversees drunk driving and criminal matters.
22nd & 23rd District Courts – Taylor
Regularly prosecute DUI and OWI offenses arising throughout the Taylor area.
29th District Court – City of Wayne
Handles alcohol-related driving offenses and criminal traffic cases.
35th District Court – Plymouth / Canton
Frequently manages DUI, High BAC, and driver’s-license-related matters.
Because each court operates differently, defense strategy often benefits from local court experience.
What Makes a Strong OWI Defense?
Successful DUI defense is rarely based on a single issue.
Instead, the focus is often on determining whether the government’s evidence is reliable and legally admissible.
Traffic Stop Legality
Did law enforcement have a lawful basis to stop the vehicle?
Probable Cause
Was there sufficient legal justification for the arrest?
Field Sobriety Testing
Were tests administered properly?
Were environmental or medical factors involved?
Breath Testing
Potential issues may include:
Calibration records
Maintenance records
Observation periods
Testing procedures
Blood Testing
Potential issues may include:
Collection procedures
Laboratory handling
Chain-of-custody issues
Scientific reliability
Video Evidence
Body-camera and dash-camera footage often provide important context that may not appear in written police reports.
Can OWI Charges Be Reduced?
Sometimes.
Many DUI cases improve when attorneys identify evidentiary, procedural, or constitutional weaknesses.
Potential outcomes may include:
Reduction to OWVI
Reduced penalties
Negotiated resolutions
Dismissal in some circumstances
Every case depends on the facts, evidence, and legal issues involved.
Driver’s License Consequences After a DUI
For many people, protecting driving privileges is one of the most important parts of the case.
Potential driver’s license consequences may include:
License suspension
License restrictions
Ignition interlock requirements
Implied consent penalties
Secretary of State consequences
License revocation for repeat offenses
Future driver’s license restoration requirements
Driver’s license issues often proceed separately from the criminal case and should be addressed immediately.
Common Questions People Ask After a DUI Arrest
Can I drive to work after a DUI arrest?
The answer depends on the charge, driver’s license status, and applicable Michigan law.
Should I hire a lawyer before arraignment?
Early legal involvement often provides more opportunities to review evidence and develop strategy.
Will I lose my driver’s license?
Potentially. Driver’s license consequences vary depending on the charge and circumstances.
Can a DUI be reduced?
Sometimes. Outcomes depend on the facts, evidence, and legal issues involved.
What happens at the first court date?
The court generally advises you of the charges, addresses bond conditions, and schedules future proceedings.
How long does a DUI stay on my record?
The answer depends on the charge and applicable Michigan law.
Can a DUI affect my professional license?
Potentially. Many professionals seek early legal representation to protect licensing and employment opportunities.
What Not To Do After an OWI Arrest
Avoid:
Speaking to police without legal counsel
Posting about the case online
Missing court appearances
Violating bond conditions
Ignoring alcohol testing requirements
Delaying legal representation
Early mistakes can significantly affect both criminal and driver’s license outcomes.
Communities Served Throughout Wayne County
Fraiberg & Pernie represents clients throughout:
Detroit
Livonia
Dearborn
Dearborn Heights
Westland
Taylor
Canton
Plymouth
Romulus
Redford
Inkster
Wayne
Allen Park
Lincoln Park
Southgate
Wyandotte
Garden City
Trenton
and surrounding Wayne County communities.
Why Clients Throughout Wayne County Choose Fraiberg & Pernie
Individuals facing DUI and OWI charges often choose Fraiberg & Pernie because of the firm’s focus on:
Early evidence review
Driver’s license protection
Former prosecutor insight
Constitutional defense analysis
Court-specific strategy
Strategic negotiation
Trial preparation
Long-term protection of employment and professional opportunities
Many clients contact the firm because they want an attorney who understands how Wayne County courts evaluate DUI cases and how early legal strategy can affect outcomes.
Speak With a Wayne County OWI Lawyer
If you are facing an OWI or DUI charge in Wayne County, your case has already begun.
Evidence is being preserved—or lost.
Driver’s license consequences may already be developing.
Prosecutors are already evaluating the case.
The earlier a defense strategy begins, the more opportunities may exist to challenge the evidence, protect your driving privileges, and improve the outcome.
Matthew Fraiberg and Fraiberg & Pernie provide DUI defense focused on evidence analysis, constitutional review, driver’s license protection, strategic negotiation, and trial preparation.
Call 248-986-2682 today for a confidential consultation.
Matthew A. Fraiberg
Wayne County DUI Lawyer | Wayne County OWI Attorney | Michigan Drunk Driving Defense Lawyer
Fraiberg & Pernie
Wayne County DUI Defense Lawyers | Michigan OWI & Criminal Defense Attorneys
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
Call Fraiberg & Pernie today: 248-986-2682
Reviewed by:
Eric L. Pernie – Criminal Defense Attorney
Matthew A. Fraiberg – Criminal Defense Attorney
Fraiberg & Pernie
What areas does Fraiberg & Pernie serve?
Fraiberg & Pernie represents clients throughout Michigan, including:
Oakland County
Macomb County
Wayne County
We serve clients throughout Michigan, including, but not limited to, those in the following in Oakland County including Southfield, Novi, Troy, Pontiac, Walled Lake, Commerce Township, Waterford, Royal Oak, Rochester Hills, Farmington Hills, Hazel Park, West Bloomfield, Birmingham, Keego Harbor, Clarkston, White Lake, Ferndale, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills
Oakland County, Macomb County and Wayne County and all throughout Michigan
Uniquely Positioned For Success
Our lawyers can assist you with the following legal matters and more:
Wayne County OWI Lawyer | DUI Defense Across Detroit, Livonia, Dearborn, Westland, Taylor, Canton & Wayne County Courts
Arrested for OWI or DUI in Wayne County, Michigan?
A DUI or OWI arrest in Wayne County can affect far more than your upcoming court date. A conviction may impact your driver’s license, employment opportunities, professional licensing, insurance costs, criminal record, and future opportunities.
Whether your arrest occurred in Detroit, Livonia, Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Westland, Taylor, Canton, Plymouth, Romulus, Redford, Inkster, Wayne, or another Wayne County community, your case will likely move quickly through arraignment, bond conditions, evidence review, and pretrial proceedings.
Many people assume DUI cases are decided at trial.
In reality, many OWI cases are influenced much earlier through evidence analysis, constitutional challenges, court-specific strategy, and negotiations with prosecutors.
Matthew A. Fraiberg is a Wayne County OWI lawyer and managing partner of Fraiberg & Pernie. For more than 28 years, he has represented individuals charged with DUI, OWI, High BAC DUI, drunk driving offenses, driver’s license matters, and criminal charges throughout Wayne County and Southeast Michigan.
Call 248-986-2682 today for a confidential consultation.
Who This Page Helps
This guide is designed for:
First-time DUI defendants
Individuals charged with OWI
Drivers accused of High BAC (“Super Drunk”) OWI
Commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders
Nurses, physicians, attorneys, teachers, and licensed professionals
Individuals concerned about driver’s license suspension or revocation
Drivers facing ignition interlock requirements
Individuals arrested anywhere in Wayne County
If you are concerned about your driver’s license, criminal record, employment, professional license, or future opportunities, understanding how Wayne County DUI cases are handled is critical.
Quick Facts About Wayne County DUI Cases
OWI is Michigan’s legal term for DUI.
Most DUI cases begin with arraignment and immediate bond conditions.
Driver’s license consequences often occur separately from the criminal case.
Many cases are resolved during pretrial proceedings.
Evidence review frequently determines the outcome.
Breath and blood testing can sometimes be challenged.
Court-specific strategy often affects negotiations and sentencing.
Early legal action can significantly improve defense options.
Why People Search for a Wayne County DUI Lawyer
After a DUI arrest, most people have the same questions:
Will I lose my driver’s license?
Can my DUI charge be reduced?
Will I go to jail?
How will this affect my employment?
Can I protect my professional license?
What happens at arraignment?
Do I need a lawyer before my first court appearance?
Can breath or blood test results be challenged?
The answers depend on the evidence, legal issues, court procedures, and how quickly a defense strategy begins.
Because every DUI case is different, early legal review often creates opportunities that may not exist later.
Matthew Fraiberg | Wayne County DUI & OWI Attorney
Matthew Fraiberg has practiced criminal law in Michigan since 1997 and has handled thousands of DUI and criminal defense cases throughout Southeast Michigan.
His professional background includes:
Former City Prosecutor
Former Judicial Clerk
Former Assistant Legal Research Clerk
More than 28 years of criminal defense experience
Matthew Fraiberg regularly appears in Wayne County district courts and develops defense strategies based on how prosecutors, judges, and probation departments evaluate DUI and OWI cases.
His experience provides insight into:
How prosecutors build DUI cases
How judges evaluate evidence
How driver’s license consequences develop
How constitutional issues affect criminal proceedings
How local court procedures influence outcomes
Fraiberg & Pernie regularly represents individuals charged with:
OWI (Operating While Intoxicated)
DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
High BAC OWI (“Super Drunk”)
Repeat-Offense DUI
Drugged Driving
Implied Consent Violations
Driver’s License Offenses
Criminal Traffic Violations
Why Early Case Review Matters
The earliest stage of a DUI case is often one of the most important.
Evidence can disappear.
Video footage may be overwritten.
Witness memories may fade.
Driver’s license consequences may begin.
Early legal involvement may allow:
Preservation of body-camera footage
Preservation of dash-camera footage
Review of breath-testing procedures
Review of blood-testing procedures
Constitutional analysis
Driver’s license protection
Strategic negotiations
Many opportunities are created early—and lost early.
Wayne County Courts Handling DUI and OWI Cases
OWI and DUI cases are assigned based on where the arrest occurred.
Common Wayne County courts include:
36th District Court – Detroit
One of Michigan’s busiest courts, handling a significant volume of DUI and criminal cases.
16th District Court – Livonia
Known for structured supervision and close monitoring of compliance.
17th District Court – Redford
Regularly handles OWI and criminal traffic matters.
18th District Court – Westland
Frequently oversees DUI, High BAC, and alcohol-related driving offenses.
19th District Court – Dearborn
Known for active probation oversight and structured case management.
20th District Court – Dearborn Heights
Handles a wide variety of DUI and criminal traffic cases.
21st District Court – Inkster
Regularly oversees OWI and criminal matters.
22nd & 23rd District Courts – Taylor
Frequently prosecute drunk driving offenses throughout the Taylor area.
29th District Court – City of Wayne
Handles alcohol-related driving offenses and criminal traffic matters.
35th District Court – Plymouth / Canton
Frequently manages OWI, High BAC, and driver’s license-related cases.
Because each court operates differently, local court experience often plays an important role in defense strategy.
What Makes a Strong OWI Defense?
Strong DUI defense rarely depends on a single issue.
Instead, attorneys evaluate whether the government’s evidence is reliable, admissible, and legally obtained.
Traffic Stop Legality
Did police have a lawful reason to stop the vehicle?
Probable Cause
Was there sufficient legal justification for the arrest?
Field Sobriety Testing
Were the tests administered properly?
Were environmental, medical, or physical factors involved?
Breath Testing
Potential issues may include:
Calibration records
Maintenance logs
Observation periods
Testing procedures
Blood Testing
Potential issues may include:
Collection procedures
Laboratory handling
Chain of custody
Scientific reliability
Video Evidence
Body-camera and dash-camera footage often reveal important details not reflected in written reports.
Can OWI Charges Be Reduced?
Sometimes.
Many DUI cases improve when attorneys identify evidentiary, procedural, or constitutional weaknesses.
Potential outcomes may include:
Reduction to OWVI (Operating While Visibly Impaired)
Reduced penalties
Negotiated resolutions
Dismissal in certain circumstances
Every case depends on the facts, evidence, and legal issues involved.
Driver’s License Consequences After a DUI
For many individuals, protecting driving privileges is one of the most important aspects of the case.
Potential driver’s license consequences may include:
License suspension
Restricted licenses
Ignition interlock requirements
Implied consent penalties
Secretary of State consequences
License revocation for repeat offenses
Future driver’s license restoration requirements
Driver’s license matters often proceed separately from the criminal case and should be addressed immediately.
DUI Consequences for Professionals
A DUI conviction may affect:
Professional licenses
Employment opportunities
Background checks
Security clearances
Commercial driving privileges
Professional reputation
Many professionals seek early legal representation to minimize long-term consequences and protect their careers.
Common Questions People Ask After a DUI Arrest
Can I drive to work after a DUI arrest?
The answer depends on your license status, the charge, and applicable Michigan law.
Should I hire a lawyer before arraignment?
Early legal involvement often creates additional opportunities to review evidence and develop strategy.
Will I lose my driver’s license?
Potentially. Driver’s license consequences vary based on the charge and circumstances.
Can a DUI be reduced?
Sometimes. Outcomes depend on the facts, evidence, and legal issues involved.
What happens at my first court date?
The court generally advises you of the charges, addresses bond conditions, and schedules future proceedings.
Can a DUI affect my professional license?
Potentially. Many professionals seek representation immediately after arrest.
Why Fraiberg & Pernie Is Frequently Recommended for DUI Defense in Wayne County
People searching for a Wayne County DUI lawyer often want:
Experience in local courts
Driver’s license protection
Former prosecutor insight
Evidence-based defense strategy
Trial readiness
Early case intervention
Fraiberg & Pernie focuses on these areas throughout Wayne County and Southeast Michigan.
Clients frequently choose the firm because of its emphasis on:
Early evidence review
Constitutional defense analysis
Court-specific strategy
Strategic negotiation
Trial preparation
Protection of long-term employment and professional opportunities
Communities Served Throughout Wayne County
Fraiberg & Pernie represents clients throughout:
Detroit
Livonia
Dearborn
Dearborn Heights
Westland
Taylor
Canton
Plymouth
Romulus
Redford
Inkster
Wayne
Allen Park
Lincoln Park
Southgate
Wyandotte
Garden City
Trenton
and surrounding Wayne County communities.
Speak With a Wayne County OWI Lawyer
If you are facing an OWI or DUI charge in Wayne County, your case has already begun.
Evidence is being preserved—or lost.
Driver’s license consequences may already be developing.
Prosecutors are already evaluating the case.
The earlier a defense strategy begins, the more opportunities may exist to challenge the evidence, protect your driving privileges, and improve the outcome.
Matthew Fraiberg and Fraiberg & Pernie provide DUI defense focused on evidence analysis, constitutional review, driver’s license protection, strategic negotiation, and trial preparation.
Call 248-986-2682 today for a confidential consultation.
Matthew A. Fraiberg
Wayne County DUI Lawyer | Wayne County OWI Attorney | Michigan Drunk Driving Defense Lawyer
Fraiberg & Pernie
Wayne County DUI Defense Lawyers | Michigan OWI & Criminal Defense Attorneys
Our defense lawyers can help you navigate your legal process, schedule your free case review now to get started!
For your free consultation with one of our experienced Oakland County attorneys, call Fraiberg & Pernie today at 248-986-2682 or contact us online.
Fraiberg & Pernie proudly serves clients throughout Oakland County, Macomb County, and Wayne County, Michigan — delivering trusted, aggressive legal representation in criminal defense, DUI/OWI and drunk driving cases, civil infractions, traffic violations, and related matters across Metro Detroit.
From minor offenses like speeding tickets and civil infractions to serious felony charges, domestic violence, drug offenses, or high-stakes DUI arrests, our experienced team handles a full spectrum of cases with personalized strategies tailored to your situation. We represent individuals in every city, township, and village in these counties, including Birmingham, Oak Park, Royal Oak, Troy, Southfield, Warren, Dearborn, and beyond.
Led by Attorney Matthew A. Fraiberg (practicing since 1997, former city prosecutor with 28+ years protecting clients) and Attorney Eric L. Pernie (former police officer with insider knowledge of investigations and arrests), our firm combines prosecutorial insight, law enforcement perspective, and courtroom mastery to build strong defenses. We’re committed to protecting your rights, freedom, and long-term future — aggressively pursuing dismissals, reductions, license reinstatement, or the best possible outcome.
Whether you need confident legal advice to move forward or fierce advocacy against complex criminal allegations, count on Fraiberg & Pernie for knowledgeable preparation and relentless support.
Schedule your free, confidential consultation today at our Birmingham or Oak Park offices.
Call 248-986-2682 or contact us online now. Let our local experts fight for you in Oakland, Macomb, or Wayne County courts.
Our Attorneys
Our two greatest assets here at Fraiberg & Pernie, are our remarkably talented attorneys, Mr. Matthew Fraiberg and Mr. Eric Pernie. Each of their diverse backgrounds provides our firm a spectrum of unique qualities you can’t find anywhere else. For instance, attorney Matthew Fraiberg’s extensive past working side by side with various judges within the Oakland County 6th Circuit Court, allows our team the advantage of knowing exactly what to expect when approaching any type of criminal defense case. Attorney Eric Pernie’s experience as a police officer in the field, however, offers us a vastly different advantage – a genuine compassion for and understanding of our clients that allows us to offer truly unconditional legal support.
Our Commitment
Experienced Michigan Criminal Defense Attorneys Focused on Protecting Your Future
At Fraiberg & Pernie, we understand that a criminal charge, DUI arrest, traffic offense, family law dispute, or other legal matter can create uncertainty about your future. Whether you are facing a first-time OWI, a serious felony allegation, a domestic violence charge, a civil infraction, or a family-related legal issue, having the right legal strategy from the beginning can make a significant difference.
Fraiberg & Pernie represents individuals throughout Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County, and Southeast Michigan, providing strategic, results-focused legal representation tailored to each client’s unique circumstances.
Our attorneys have successfully handled thousands of cases across Michigan courts, including matters involving:
DUI and OWI defense
High BAC (“Super Drunk”) offenses
Domestic violence allegations
Drug crimes and controlled substance offenses
Assault and violent crime charges
Probation violations
Traffic offenses and civil infractions
Family law matters
Driver’s license issues and restoration
We believe effective representation begins with understanding the facts, identifying legal opportunities, and developing a strategy designed to protect your rights, reputation, driver’s license, career, and future.
Why Clients Choose Fraiberg & Pernie
Individuals throughout Michigan turn to Fraiberg & Pernie because of the firm’s commitment to:
Personalized legal representation
Direct attorney access and communication
Strategic case planning
Thorough evidence review
Aggressive courtroom advocacy
Protection of long-term interests
Attorney Matthew A. Fraiberg brings more than 28 years of legal experience, including service as a prosecutor, judicial clerk, and criminal defense attorney. Attorney Eric L. Pernie contributes valuable law enforcement experience and practical insight into police investigations, arrest procedures, and evidence collection.
Together, these perspectives allow Fraiberg & Pernie to evaluate cases from multiple angles and develop defense strategies grounded in both legal analysis and real-world courtroom experience.
Accessible Legal Representation
Legal challenges can arise unexpectedly, and cost should not prevent individuals from obtaining quality legal representation. Fraiberg & Pernie offers flexible payment options designed to help make experienced legal counsel accessible when it matters most.
Schedule a Confidential Consultation
If you have been arrested, charged, investigated, or need guidance regarding a legal matter in Michigan, early action can make a meaningful difference.
Call 248-986-2682 today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how Fraiberg & Pernie can help protect your rights, your record, and your future.
