Best OWI | DUI Lawyers in Michigan

Michigan DUI Lawyer | OWI Defense Attorneys in Oakland, Wayne & Macomb County

Fraiberg & Pernie is a Michigan criminal defense law firm representing drivers charged with DUI and OWI offenses throughout Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County, and Southeast Michigan.

Michigan DUI attorney Matthew A. Fraiberg has decades of criminal defense experience handling OWI, High BAC, felony DUI, repeat-offense DUI, and driver’s license cases across Michigan courts.

If you were arrested for DUI, OWI, Operating While Intoxicated, High BAC, drunk driving, or refused a breath or chemical test in Michigan, call Fraiberg & Pernie immediately at (248) 986-2682 for a confidential consultation.


Michigan DUI Charges Explained

Michigan recognizes several different drunk driving offenses. The charge depends on BAC level, prior offenses, impairment evidence, and surrounding circumstances.

OWI — Operating While Intoxicated

An OWI charge generally involves:

  • BAC of .08 or higher

  • Impairment caused by alcohol or drugs

  • Evidence of intoxicated driving

OWVI — Operating While Visibly Impaired

OWVI is a lower-level offense based primarily on observed impairment rather than BAC level.

High BAC / “Super Drunk”

Michigan High BAC charges involve:

  • BAC of .17 or higher

  • Enhanced penalties

  • Possible ignition interlock requirements

Felony DUI in Michigan

A DUI may become a felony when involving:

  • Third-offense OWI

  • Serious injury accidents

  • Fatal crashes

  • Prior felony DUI history

Reducing or avoiding felony exposure can significantly affect long-term consequences.


What To Do After a DUI Arrest in Michigan

If you were arrested for DUI in Michigan:

  • Remain silent

  • Request a lawyer immediately

  • Preserve receipts, documents, and evidence

  • Follow all bond and court conditions

  • Avoid discussing the case online

  • Act quickly before evidence issues disappear

Most DUI cases are influenced during the early stages of the case.


Do You Need a Michigan DUI Lawyer?

Yes. DUI charges involve technical evidence, constitutional protections, police procedures, and driver’s license consequences.

Fraiberg & Pernie analyzes:

  • Traffic stop legality

  • Police reports

  • Bodycam and dashcam footage

  • Field sobriety testing

  • Breath and blood testing procedures

  • Constitutional violations

  • Driver’s license issues

In many DUI cases, early legal strategy improves the outcome substantially.


Will You Lose Your License After a Michigan DUI?

Possibly. Michigan DUI arrests can trigger driver’s license consequences through both the court system and the Michigan Secretary of State.

Possible consequences include:

  • License suspension

  • Restricted driving privileges

  • Ignition interlock requirements

  • License revocation for repeat offenses

Important:
Chemical test refusal cases often involve strict deadlines. Immediate action may help preserve driving privileges.


Will You Go to Jail for a DUI in Michigan?

Not always.

Many first-offense DUI cases in Michigan do not result in jail time, especially when the defense begins early and the case is handled strategically.

Jail risk increases when cases involve:

  • High BAC levels

  • Repeat DUI offenses

  • Accidents or injuries

  • Probation violations

  • Aggravating circumstances

Early legal representation can significantly affect sentencing outcomes.


How DUI Cases Are Challenged

Fraiberg & Pernie builds DUI defense strategies by identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence.

Common defense issues include:

  • Illegal traffic stops

  • Lack of probable cause

  • Improper field sobriety testing

  • Faulty breathalyzer calibration

  • Blood testing errors

  • Miranda violations

  • Unlawful police searches

  • Contradictory police reports

  • Missing video evidence

  • Constitutional violations

Even small inconsistencies can significantly weaken a DUI prosecution.


Possible Outcomes in a Michigan DUI Case

Every DUI case is different. Outcomes depend on evidence strength, legal issues, court practices, and defense strategy.

Possible outcomes include:

  • Reduced charges

  • OWI reduction to OWVI

  • Suppressed evidence

  • Case dismissal

  • Negotiated plea agreements

  • Avoiding jail

  • Trial acquittal

Most DUI cases are resolved through early negotiation and evidence analysis before trial.


Why Court Location Matters in Michigan DUI Cases

Although Michigan DUI law is statewide, local courts often handle cases differently.

Oakland County DUI Cases

Oakland County courts often involve:

  • Strict probation conditions

  • Alcohol testing requirements

  • Intensive supervision

  • Detailed compliance monitoring

Wayne County DUI Cases

Wayne County DUI cases often move quickly and require early preparation and strategic negotiation.

Macomb County DUI Cases

Macomb County courts frequently emphasize:

  • Probation compliance

  • Alcohol testing

  • Structured sentencing conditions

Local court experience helps build more effective defense strategies.


Why People Choose Fraiberg & Pernie for DUI Defense

Clients choose Fraiberg & Pernie because the firm focuses heavily on strategic DUI and criminal defense representation across Michigan.

Matthew A. Fraiberg provides:

  • Decades of criminal defense experience

  • Thousands of criminal and DUI cases handled

  • Evidence-driven defense strategy

  • Aggressive motion practice

  • Trial-ready preparation

The firm focuses on protecting:

  • Driver’s licenses

  • Criminal records

  • Employment opportunities

  • Professional licenses

  • Long-term future consequences


Michigan DUI FAQ

What should I do immediately after a DUI arrest?

Remain silent, request a lawyer, preserve evidence, and act quickly.

Can DUI charges be reduced in Michigan?

Yes. Many DUI charges are reduced when legal or evidentiary weaknesses are identified early.

Will I go to jail for a first DUI?

Not always. Many first-offense cases avoid jail through early legal strategy and compliance.

How long does a Michigan DUI case take?

Most DUI cases resolve within several months, depending on the court and complexity of the evidence.

Can a DUI case be dismissed?

Yes. DUI cases may be dismissed when evidence problems, constitutional violations, or procedural errors exist.


Speak With a Michigan DUI Lawyer Today

If you are facing DUI or OWI charges in Michigan, immediate legal action matters.

Fraiberg & Pernie represents drivers throughout Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County, and courts across Southeast Michigan.

Call (248) 986-2682 today for a confidential consultation with a Michigan DUI defense attorney.

Early defense strategy can protect your license, your record, and your future.

Call (248) 986-2682 today.

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

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.

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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

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