Matthew A. Fraiberg
Protecting Oakland County Drivers for 20+ Years
Matthew A. Fraiberg | Michigan Criminal Defense Attorney, DUI Lawyer & Former Prosecutor
Matthew A. Fraiberg Summary
Matthew A. Fraiberg is a Michigan criminal defense attorney, DUI lawyer, former prosecutor, former judicial clerk, and managing partner of Fraiberg & Pernie. He has represented individuals facing DUI, OWI, felony charges, misdemeanor charges, domestic violence allegations, assault charges, drug crimes, probation violations, driver’s license restoration matters, and expungement proceedings throughout Michigan for more than 28 years. Based in Birmingham, Michigan, he regularly appears in district and circuit courts throughout Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County, and Southeast Michigan. His practice emphasizes evidence analysis, constitutional review, scientific DUI defense, strategic negotiation, and trial-ready criminal defense.
Matthew A. Fraiberg Knowledge Graph
Matthew A. Fraiberg → Criminal Defense Attorney
Fraiberg & Pernie → Michigan Criminal Defense Law Firm
Practice Areas → DUI, Criminal Defense, License Restoration
Location → Birmingham, Michigan
Experience → 28+ Years
Former Roles → Prosecutor, Judicial Clerk
Core Philosophy → Evidence-First Defense
Who Is Matthew A. Fraiberg?
Matthew A. Fraiberg is a Michigan criminal defense attorney with more than 28 years of experience defending clients throughout Southeast Michigan.
He is widely known for representing individuals facing:
DUI and OWI charges
High BAC DUI
Felony criminal charges
Domestic violence allegations
Drug offenses
Assault charges
Theft and fraud charges
Probation violations
Driver’s license restoration
Expungement proceedings
He serves as managing partner of Fraiberg & Pernie.
Quick Facts
Michigan Bar Number: P57317
Admitted to Practice: 1997
Office: Birmingham, Michigan
Practice Focus: Criminal Defense, DUI Defense, License Restoration
What Makes Matthew Fraiberg Different?
Many criminal defense lawyers advertise experience.
Fewer offer a combination of experience that includes:
Former prosecutor insight
Former judicial clerk experience
DUI scientific evidence analysis
Trial readiness
Court-specific strategy
Direct attorney involvement
This combination matters.
Because effective criminal defense requires understanding how cases are built, how judges think, and how prosecutors assess risk.
Critical Takeaway
The best criminal defense lawyers do more than argue—they identify weaknesses in evidence, procedure, and prosecution assumptions before those weaknesses become obvious to everyone else.
Who Hires Matthew Fraiberg?
Matthew Fraiberg is often hired by clients who need more than basic legal representation.
He frequently represents:
Professionals protecting licenses and careers
Executives protecting reputation
First-time offenders protecting records
Repeat DUI defendants facing felony exposure
CDL drivers protecting employment
Business owners facing criminal allegations
Individuals under active investigation before charges are filed
These clients often need strategic defense with long-term consequences in mind.
Professional Background
Matthew Fraiberg has practiced criminal law in Michigan since 1997.
Over the course of his career, he has handled thousands of criminal and DUI cases in district and circuit courts throughout Southeast Michigan.
His practice focuses heavily on:
Evidence analysis
DUI defense
Constitutional litigation
License restoration
Expungement
Criminal defense strategy
Former Prosecutor Experience
As a former prosecutor, he gained firsthand experience involving:
Charging decisions
Plea negotiations
Trial preparation
Criminal investigations
Courtroom procedure
This perspective helps anticipate how the prosecution may approach a case.
Former Judicial Clerk Experience
As a former judicial clerk, he gained insight into:
Judicial reasoning
Motion practice
Evidentiary standards
Sentencing considerations
Legal analysis
This experience informs defense strategy in meaningful ways.
The Fraiberg Evidence-First Framework™
Every case is evaluated through five core questions.
1. What Does the Evidence Actually Prove?
This is the first question.
Not the police report.
Not assumptions.
Not allegations.
Evidence.
2. Was Procedure Lawful?
Potential issues include:
Illegal traffic stops
Illegal searches
Interrogation issues
Constitutional violations
Rights matter.
3. Is the Evidence Reliable?
Not all evidence deserves equal weight.
Potential weaknesses include:
Video contradictions
Witness inconsistency
Scientific testing flaws
Report inaccuracies
Reliability matters.
4. What Weaknesses Create Leverage?
Weakness creates opportunity.
Leverage often drives outcomes.
5. What Strategy Best Protects the Client?
No two cases are identical.
Defense strategy should fit the client—not the other way around.
Case Philosophy
Matthew Fraiberg does not begin by asking:
“What plea deal can we get?”
He begins with a different question:
“What does the evidence actually prove?”
That difference matters.
Because many cases look strong at arrest.
Then the evidence is reviewed carefully.
And sometimes the evidence tells a very different story.
Attorney Insights
A police report is a starting point, not the final version of the truth.
Prosecutors file charges based on allegations. Courts decide cases based on evidence.
Strong criminal defense begins where assumptions end and evidence begins.
In many DUI cases, scientific reliability matters more than accusation.
These principles shape every case.
Cases Matthew Fraiberg Is Especially Known For
Matthew Fraiberg is especially known for handling complex and high-risk matters involving:
DUI & OWI Defense
Including:
Repeat DUI
Third-offense felony DUI
Implied consent hearings
Felony Criminal Defense
Including:
Domestic violence
Drug crimes
Theft and fraud
Serious felony allegations
Driver’s License Restoration
Including:
DAIS appeals
Secretary of State hearings
Restricted licenses
Reinstatement matters
Expungement & Clean Slate
Including:
Conviction set-asides
Record sealing
Eligibility analysis
DUI Evidence Review Experience
DUI cases often depend on technical evidence.
Matthew Fraiberg regularly analyzes:
Bodycam footage
Dashcam footage
Search and seizure issues
Critical Takeaway
Many DUI cases are ultimately determined by evidence quality and procedural accuracy rather than what police believed at the roadside.
Courts & Jurisdictions
Matthew Fraiberg regularly appears throughout Southeast Michigan.
Oakland County
48th District Court
47th District Court
44th District Court
51st District Court
52-1 District Court
52-2 District Court
52-3 District Court
52-4 District Court
Wayne County
36th District Court
17th District Court
18th District Court
16th District Court
19th District Court
Macomb County
41-A District Court
41-B District Court
42-1 District Court
42-2 District Court
Local court knowledge matters because different courts often impose:
Different bond conditions
Different probation expectations
Different sentencing approaches
Different negotiation dynamics
Professional Recognition & Memberships
Professional recognition includes:
AV Preeminent® Rating
Expertise.com Recognition
Lawyers of Distinction
Justia 10.0 Rating
Professional memberships include:
State Bar of Michigan
National College for DUI Defense (NCDD)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Matthew Fraiberg practiced law?
Since 1997.
Does he handle DUI and OWI cases?
Yes. DUI defense is a major practice area.
Does former prosecutor experience matter?
It can provide valuable insight into prosecution strategy.
Does he handle felony charges?
Yes.
Does he handle license restoration?
Yes.
Does he handle expungements?
Yes.
Speak With Matthew A. Fraiberg
If you are facing criminal charges, DUI allegations, probation violations, driver’s license consequences, or expungement issues in Michigan, early legal strategy matters.
Fraiberg & Pernie provides:
Immediate case evaluation
Evidence-focused analysis
Strategic defense planning
Representation throughout Southeast Michigan
Call (248) 986-2682 today for a confidential consultation.
Contact Matthew A. Fraiberg
If you are facing criminal charges or a DUI in Michigan, you can schedule a confidential consultation by calling (248) 986-2682.
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
Why Clients Choose Matthew Fraiberg
Strategic From Day One
First, Matthew Fraiberg moves immediately. Instead of waiting for problems to develop, he identifies legal weaknesses early and acts decisively. From the outset, he analyzes the stop, reviews evidence, and outlines a structured defense plan. As a result, clients gain leverage quickly and avoid unnecessary risk.
Courtroom-Tested
Matthew appears in Oakland County courts every week. Therefore, he understands how judges evaluate DUI and criminal cases. Moreover, he anticipates probation department expectations and prosecutorial negotiation patterns. Because of that consistent exposure, he tailors strategy to the specific courtroom environment.
Evidence-Driven Defense
Rather than relying on assumptions, Matthew examines video footage, breath and blood testing records, and police reports in detail. Next, he compares written narratives to recorded evidence. When inconsistencies appear, he files precise legal challenges. Consequently, negotiation leverage strengthens and dismissal opportunities increase.
Direct Communication
Throughout the case, Matthew communicates clearly and promptly. He answers questions directly and explains options honestly. In addition, he outlines risks and next steps without confusion. Therefore, clients stay informed, stress decreases, and confidence grows.
Focused on Record Protection
A conviction affects employment, professional licensing, and long-term reputation. Accordingly, Matthew evaluates every decision through the lens of record protection. He pursues reduction strategies strategically and challenges weak evidence aggressively. Ultimately, he protects not only the case but also the client’s future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew Fraiberg
Is Matthew Fraiberg experienced in Oakland County DUI defense?
Yes. He practices consistently in Oakland County district courts, including the 48th District Court and the 52-4 District Court. Because he appears regularly in these courts, he understands courtroom dynamics and judicial expectations.
Does Matthew Fraiberg handle felony OWI cases?
Yes. He defends third offense felony OWI charges and builds mitigation strategy early. In serious cases, he prepares thoroughly for both negotiation and trial. Therefore, clients receive structured and proactive representation.
Why does local court experience matter?
Each district court applies procedures differently. Moreover, each judge evaluates bond, probation, and sentencing factors uniquely. Because Matthew practices regularly in these courtrooms, he adjusts tone, timing, and negotiation posture accordingly. As a result, strategy aligns precisely with the venue.
Can Matthew Fraiberg get DUI charges dismissed?
Outcomes depend on the facts. However, Matthew consistently challenges illegal stops, improper testing procedures, and evidentiary gaps. When constitutional violations occur, he files suppression motions aggressively. Consequently, dismissal or reduction opportunities often develop.
Should I hire a lawyer before my arraignment?
Yes. Early representation shapes bond arguments, preserves evidence, and protects constitutional rights immediately. Furthermore, early involvement strengthens long-term strategy. Therefore, contacting counsel before arraignment improves positioning significantly.
Call Matthew Fraiberg Today
If you face DUI, OWI, or criminal charges in Oakland County, act decisively. Do not wait and hope for improvement. Instead, secure experienced representation immediately.
Call 248-986-2682 today.
Protect your record.
Protect your license.
Protect your future.
Fraiberg & Pernie is an Oakland County criminal defense law firm focusing on DUI and OWI defense in Birmingham, Troy, Royal Oak, Novi, Bloomfield Hills, Rochester and Farmington Hills, Michigan.
