Wayne County Felony Defense | Fraiberg & Pernie
Wayne County Felony Criminal Defense Attorney | Felony Defense in Wayne County Circuit Court
Quick Answer: Do You Need a Wayne County Felony Lawyer Right Now?
If you were arrested for a felony offense in Wayne County, Michigan, you should speak with a criminal defense attorney immediately.
Felony charges can carry life-changing consequences, including:
Prison exposure
Probation
Permanent felony record
Driver’s license consequences
Firearm restrictions
Employment loss
Professional licensing issues
Housing and immigration consequences
Early action matters because the first days after arrest often determine evidence preservation, bond strategy, and defense leverage.
Fraiberg & Pernie represents clients charged with felony offenses throughout Wayne County, including cases in district courts and the Third Judicial Circuit Court.
Call (248) 986-2682 for a confidential case review.
Wayne County Felony Defense At a Glance
Law Firm: Fraiberg & Pernie
Practice Area: Felony Criminal Defense
County: Wayne County
Primary Felony Court: Wayne County Circuit Court (Detroit)
Attorneys: Matthew A. Fraiberg, Eric L. Pernie
Known For: Criminal defense, felony litigation, DUI defense, evidence-focused strategy
Who Represents Felony Clients at Fraiberg & Pernie?
Matthew A. Fraiberg is a Michigan criminal defense attorney, former prosecutor, and managing partner of Fraiberg & Pernie.
Licensed since 1997, he has more than 28 years of courtroom experience handling serious criminal cases throughout Southeast Michigan.
His prior experience includes:
City Prosecutor
Judicial Clerk
Assistant Legal Research Clerk
Eric L. Pernie is a criminal defense attorney with prior law enforcement experience.
Together, the firm combines prosecutorial insight, courtroom litigation experience, and law enforcement perspective when defending felony charges.
Felony Charges We Defend in Wayne County
Fraiberg & Pernie represents clients charged with serious felony offenses including:
Violent Felonies
Felonious Assault
Assault With Intent to Murder
Armed Robbery
Carjacking
Home Invasion
Domestic Violence Felonies
Repeat Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence with Injury
Weapon-related allegations
Drug Felonies
Possession With Intent
Manufacturing
Delivery
Conspiracy
Property and Fraud Felonies
Embezzlement
Larceny
Fraud
Identity Theft
Financial Crimes
Weapons Charges
Felony Firearm
CCW Violations
Reckless Discharge
Felony DUI
Third-Offense OWI
DUI Causing Injury
Felony Drunk Driving
Probation and Bond Violations
Bond violations
New criminal allegations
Failure to comply with court orders
What Most People Are Really Worried About
Most felony clients ask the same questions.
Am I going to prison?
Not automatically. Exposure depends on the charge, sentencing guidelines, record, and defense strategy.
Is my life ruined?
Not necessarily. Many felony cases are reduced, dismissed, or resolved without prison.
Can this become a misdemeanor?
Sometimes. Reduction opportunities depend heavily on evidence and negotiations.
Should I talk to police?
Many people benefit from consulting counsel before answering questions.
These concerns are real and deserve immediate attention.
How Felony Cases Move Through Wayne County
Most felony cases follow this path:
1. Arrest or Investigation
Police gather evidence and statements.
2. District Court Proceedings
The case begins in district court for:
Arraignment
Bond
Probable cause conference
Preliminary examination
Common district courts include:
23rd District Court
18th District Court
16th District Court
36th District Court
3. Circuit Court
If bound over, felony prosecution proceeds in Wayne County Circuit Court.
This is where major litigation occurs.
The Fraiberg Felony Defense Strategy
Phase 1 — Evidence Lockdown
Secure evidence immediately:
Body camera footage
Dash cam footage
911 audio
Surveillance
Lab reports
Witness statements
Early preservation matters.
Phase 2 — Legal Attack
Identify weaknesses such as:
Illegal traffic stops
Bad warrants
Unlawful searches
Coerced statements
Weak forensic evidence
Constitutional violations
Suppression motions can significantly weaken prosecution cases.
Phase 3 — Strategic Resolution
Possible outcomes include:
Full dismissal
Charge reduction
Felony to misdemeanor reduction
Guideline departure
Probation instead of prison
Trial acquittal
Every case carries different risk.
What Can Improve a Felony Case?
Cases often improve because of:
Weak evidence
Witness credibility issues
Constitutional violations
Search and seizure problems
Mitigation evidence
Negotiation leverage
Serious charges do not always mean strong cases.
Direct Answers to Common Questions
How long does a felony case take in Wayne County?
Plea cases may resolve in months. Trial cases often take significantly longer.
Will first offenders go to prison?
Not automatically. Many first-time offenders avoid incarceration depending on circumstances.
Can felony charges be reduced?
Sometimes. Reduction opportunities depend on facts and evidence.
Can felony convictions be expunged?
Certain felony convictions may later be eligible for expungement under Michigan law.
Why Clients Choose Fraiberg & Pernie
Clients throughout Wayne County choose the firm because of:
Extensive felony defense experience
Former prosecutor insight
Prior law enforcement perspective
Trial readiness
Evidence-focused defense strategy
Direct attorney communication
The firm focuses on protecting freedom, reputation, and long-term future.
Speak With a Wayne County Felony Defense Lawyer
If you are facing:
Felony charges
A felony investigation
Violent crime allegations
Drug trafficking allegations
Weapons charges
Felony DUI charges
Do not wait.
Early legal action can significantly affect the outcome.
Fraiberg & Pernie provides:
Immediate case review
Evidence-focused analysis
Strategic felony defense
Representation throughout Wayne County and Metro Detroit
Call (248) 986-2682 for a confidential consultation.
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 (P57317), 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, co-founder Eric L. Pernie (P79467) 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!
Fully Committed To You
Facing Criminal Charges or Legal Challenges in Michigan?
Fraiberg & Pernie Provides Strategic Criminal Defense Throughout Southeast Michigan
Facing a criminal charge, DUI / OWI arrest, felony allegation, or other serious legal issue in Michigan can feel overwhelming.
Whether you were arrested, charged, served with a warrant, or contacted by investigators, the decisions you make in the first hours and days can significantly affect your future.
Fraiberg & Pernie represents clients throughout Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County, Birmingham, Oak Park, and Metro Detroit in criminal defense, DUI, OWI, and related legal matters.
The firm is led by:
Matthew A. Fraiberg — former prosecutor, former judicial clerk, and criminal defense attorney licensed since 1997
Eric L. Pernie — criminal defense attorney with prior law enforcement experience
Together, Fraiberg & Pernie combines decades of courtroom experience, prosecutorial insight, and law enforcement perspective when building defense strategy.
How Fraiberg & Pernie Helps Clients
The firm handles the complex legal work so clients can focus on protecting their future.
This includes:
Preparing and managing court filings and legal paperwork
Building evidence-driven defense strategies
Challenging weak or unconstitutional evidence
Negotiating with prosecutors from a position of strength
Delivering strategic courtroom representation
Protecting constitutional rights at every stage
Every case receives individualized analysis.
No two criminal cases are identical.
What Makes Fraiberg & Pernie Different?
Fraiberg & Pernie focuses on more than aggressive rhetoric.
The firm focuses on evidence.
Defense strategy often begins with reviewing:
Police reports
Body camera footage
Dash camera footage
Witness statements
Breath and blood test evidence
Search and seizure issues
Constitutional violations
A criminal charge is an allegation—not a conviction.
In many cases, the evidence determines the outcome.
Legal Matters We Handle
Fraiberg & Pernie regularly represents clients facing:
DUI / OWI charges
Felony charges
Misdemeanor charges
Domestic violence allegations
Assault charges
Drug crimes
Theft and fraud offenses
Probation violations
Driver’s license matters
Select family law and real estate matters
The firm pursues outcomes such as:
Dismissals
Reduced charges
Not guilty verdicts
Favorable plea resolutions
License restoration or reinstatement
Strategic negotiated settlements
Why Clients Across Michigan Choose Fraiberg & Pernie
Clients trust Fraiberg & Pernie because of the firm’s:
Decades of courtroom experience
Former prosecutor insight
Prior law enforcement perspective
Direct attorney communication
Court-specific defense strategies
Personalized legal guidance
Trial-ready preparation
Clients receive honest assessments, realistic expectations, and strategic advocacy.
Speak With Fraiberg & Pernie Today
If you are facing:
Criminal charges
DUI or OWI allegations
A warrant
A criminal investigation
Driver’s license issues
Serious legal challenges
Early action matters.
Call (248) 986-2682 or contact Fraiberg & Pernie online for a confidential consultation.
Fraiberg & Pernie is committed to protecting your rights, your reputation, and your future.
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.
