Wayne County DUI & Criminal Defense Lawyers - Courts
Wayne County OWI Lawyer — DUI Defense Across Detroit and Local District Courts
OWI cases in Wayne County follow structured court procedures and often move quickly from arrest to arraignment and pretrial review. While Michigan law (MCL 257.625) defines the charges and penalties, outcomes frequently depend on how evidence is evaluated and how the case is handled within the specific court.
Fraiberg & Pernie represents individuals charged with OWI throughout Wayne County, including Detroit, Westland, Livonia, Dearborn, and Downriver courts.
What Matters in a Wayne County DUI Case
OWI cases typically turn on:
- The legality of the traffic stop
- The reliability of breath or blood testing
- Officer observations and reports
- Consistency between video evidence and written reports
Because these factors vary by case, results depend on how the evidence holds up under review.
Wayne County Courts and Case Handling
OWI cases are assigned based on where the arrest occurred. Courts across Wayne County include:
- 36th District Court — Detroit
- 18th District Court — Westland
- 35th District Court — Plymouth / Canton
- 34th District Court — Romulus
- 33rd District Court — Downriver
- 16th District Court — Livonia
- 17th District Court — Redford
- 19th & 20th District Courts — Dearborn / Dearborn Heights
- 21st District Court — Inkster
- 22nd & 23rd District Courts — Taylor
- 24th District Court — Allen Park
- 25th District Court — Lincoln Park
- 28th District Court — Southgate
- 29th District Court — City of Wayne
- 30th District Court — Highland Park
- 31st District Court — Hamtramck
Each court operates with different procedures, timelines, and probation expectations.
How DUI Cases Move Through Wayne County Courts
Most OWI cases follow a consistent process:
Arraignment
The court formally presents the charges and sets bond conditions.
Pretrial Proceedings
Evidence is reviewed and potential resolutions are discussed.
Motions and Legal Challenges
Issues may be raised regarding:
- Traffic stop legality
- Probable cause
- Testing procedures
- Evidence admissibility
Resolution or Trial
Cases may conclude through negotiation, dismissal, or trial depending on the evidence.
Can OWI Charges Be Reduced?
In some cases, yes.
Reductions may occur when:
- Evidence is inconsistent
- Testing procedures are flawed
- Legal standards are not met
- Mitigating factors are presented
How Evidence Is Evaluated
DUI cases often depend on detailed review of:
- Traffic stop justification
- Field sobriety testing conditions
- Breathalyzer calibration and operation
- Blood testing procedures
- Officer reports and video evidence
Even small inconsistencies can affect how a case develops.
What to Expect in Wayne County Courts
Many courts in Wayne County emphasize:
- Strict bond conditions
- Alcohol testing requirements
- Probation compliance
Following court conditions closely is important while the case is pending.
How Long Does a DUI Case Take?
Most OWI cases are resolved within several months, depending on:
- Court scheduling
- Evidence review
- Motions and legal challenges
Common Questions
Can I challenge the traffic stop?
Yes, if there is a legal issue with how the stop occurred.
Can breath or blood tests be challenged?
Yes, particularly if procedures were not followed correctly.
Will I go to jail?
Not always. Many cases are resolved without jail, especially for first-time offenses.
About Matthew A. Fraiberg
Matthew A. Fraiberg has more than 28 years of experience handling DUI and criminal cases throughout Southeast Michigan, including Wayne County courts.
His background includes work as a prosecutor and judicial clerk, providing insight into how cases are evaluated at different stages.
Key Takeaways
- Wayne County courts vary in procedure and expectations
- DUI cases often depend on evidence review
- Legal challenges can affect case outcomes
- Court-specific preparation can influence resolution
What To Do After an OWI Arrest
If you have been charged:
- Do not speak with police without legal counsel
- Keep all documents and paperwork
- Follow all bond conditions
- Prepare for upcoming court dates
Speak With a Wayne County DUI Lawyer
If you are facing an OWI charge in Wayne County, understanding the process and how your case will be evaluated is important.
Call (248) 986-2682 to schedule a confidential consultation.
Call (248) 986-2682 for a free case evaluation.
Call now for a consultation and protect your future.
Fraiberg & Pernie can evaluate the evidence, protect your license, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your case.
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 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:
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:
Fraiberg & Pernie: Trusted Michigan Criminal Defense Attorneys
Fraiberg & Pernie stands as a trusted Michigan criminal defense law firm that proudly serves Oakland County, Wayne County, and Macomb County. First and foremost, attorneys Matthew A. Fraiberg and Eric L. Pernie deliver aggressive and personalized representation for a variety of matters. For instance, they handle criminal charges, DUI/OWI drunk driving cases, family law issues, and real estate concerns throughout Metro Detroit.
Meet Our Experienced Attorneys
To begin with, Matthew A. Fraiberg, licensed by the Michigan Bar since 1997, founded the firm. Additionally, his prior roles as a City Prosecutor, judicial clerk, and assistant legal research clerk for Oakland County 6th Circuit Court judges provide him with invaluable insider knowledge. As a result, he gains a deep understanding of Michigan courts and prosecutorial strategies, which he uses to benefit clients.
Furthermore, Eric L. Pernie contributes a powerful combination of legal expertise and prior law enforcement experience. Moreover, as a member of the Oakland County Bar Association, he maintains a strong focus on protecting client rights across Michigan. Together, these attorneys ensure comprehensive and dedicated advocacy for every case.
What Criminal Defense Services Does Fraiberg & Pernie Provide in Oakland County, Wayne County, and Macomb County?
When it comes to criminal defense, Fraiberg & Pernie expertly handles a range of cases, including:
- Felonies and misdemeanors in Michigan courts
- Assault and battery charges
- Drug possession, delivery, and trafficking offenses
- Domestic violence allegations
- All other Michigan criminal matters
In addition, the firm constructs solid defenses by identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Then, through strategic negotiation and powerful courtroom advocacy, they aim to secure dismissals, reductions, or acquittals. Consequently, clients often achieve favorable outcomes tailored to their unique situations.
How Does Fraiberg & Pernie Defend DUI and OWI Drunk Driving Charges in Michigan?
Shifting to DUI and OWI matters, Fraiberg & Pernie aggressively defends cases that involve:
- License suspension or revocation in Michigan
- High BAC charges (.08+ or .17+ super drunk)
- Breathalyzer or chemical test refusals
- First-time DUI/OWI and repeat offenses
Leveraging former prosecutorial insights, the attorneys challenge evidence, field sobriety tests, and police procedures. Therefore, they work tirelessly to protect your driving privileges and minimize penalties, helping you move forward with confidence.
Why Do Clients in Birmingham, Oak Park, Bloomfield Hills, Royal Oak, and Metro Detroit Choose Fraiberg & Pernie?
Clients in areas like Birmingham, Oak Park, Bloomfield Hills, Royal Oak, and throughout Metro Detroit consistently choose Fraiberg & Pernie for several key reasons. To start, the firm boasts over 40 years of combined Michigan courtroom and negotiation experience. Additionally, their proven results demonstrate success in safeguarding rights, freedom, and futures—even in the most serious cases.
Moreover, they offer personalized attention by actively listening to your unique goals and crafting custom strategies. On top of that, convenient offices in Birmingham and Oak Park, Michigan, make access straightforward. Finally, the firm earns consistent recognition as reliable local advocates in Oakland County, Wayne County, and Macomb County.
Fraiberg & Pernie also operates as an Oakland County criminal defense law firm with a special focus on DUI and OWI defense in Birmingham, Troy, Royal Oak, Bloomfield Hills, Novi, and Farmington Hills, Michigan.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Fraiberg & Pernie in Michigan
If you’re facing criminal charges, a DUI/OWI arrest, family law matters, or real estate needs in Metro Detroit, take action now. Contact Fraiberg & Pernie for a free, confidential consultation to explore your options.
Simply call 248-986-2682 today, or submit your case details online for prompt assistance.
Our offices include:
- Birmingham, Michigan (main location: 1000 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Suite 103, Birmingham, MI 48009)
- Oak Park, Michigan
Your rights truly matter—therefore, let Matthew Fraiberg and Eric Pernie protect them in Michigan courts. We’re committed to guiding you every step of the way.
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
At Fraiberg & Pernie, our only motivation is helping our fellow Michiganders get the support they deserve. No matter what type of mistakes you may have made in the past, or what type of legal assistance you need, our attorneys will always remain steadfast in our commitment to do whatever we can to help you. From serious drunk driving and domestic violence cases, to simple civil infractions and delicate family matters, our dedicated attorneys are more than capable of handling any type of legal situation concerning you.
Our attorneys at Fraiberg & Pernie, have proven our worth as legal professionals time and time again by successfully managing thousands of cases, but it is our integrity and unique qualifications that truly makes Fraiberg & Pernie one-of-a-kind. Thanks to us, you can get the help you need no matter what your circumstances are. Our adjustable payment plans make our exceptional legal services affordable for all! Give our attorneys at Fraiberg & Pernie, the chance to show you just what we’ve got! Call 248-986-2682 or fill in the form in the sidebar for your free consultation.
