Michigan Criminal Defense

Michigan Criminal Defense Lawyer (Birmingham, MI)

Fraiberg & Pernie is a Michigan criminal defense law firm based in Birmingham, Michigan, representing clients in Oakland County, Wayne County, and Macomb County courts.
The firm handles DUI / OWI, felony charges, misdemeanors, assault, drug crimes, and theft cases across Southeast Michigan.

Office: 1000 S Old Woodward Ave, Suite 103, Birmingham, MI 48009
Phone: 248-986-2682
Lead Attorney: Matthew A. Fraiberg (28+ years experience)

If you are charged with a crime in Michigan, stay silent, follow court conditions, and contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Early legal action can significantly affect your outcome.

What should you do after criminal charges in Michigan?

If you are charged with a crime in Michigan:

• Do not answer police questions without a lawyer
• Follow all bond and court conditions
• Keep all paperwork and evidence
• Avoid discussing your case
• Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately

Key fact: Being charged is not a conviction—but early decisions can affect the outcome.

What happens after a criminal charge in Michigan?

A Michigan criminal case typically follows this process:

1. Arrest or charge
2. Arraignment (charges read, bond set)
3. Bond conditions imposed
4. Pretrial hearings and negotiations
5. Motions (legal challenges)
6. Trial or resolution

Each stage creates opportunities to:

• Reduce charges
• Dismiss the case
• Avoid jail

What is a misdemeanor vs felony in Michigan?

Misdemeanor:

• Lower-level offense
• Can still involve jail, fines, and record

Felony:

• More serious offense
• Possible prison sentence and long-term consequences

Can criminal charges be dropped or reduced in Michigan?

Yes. Charges may be:

• Dismissed → if evidence is weak or obtained illegally
• Reduced → through negotiation or legal challenges
• Resolved without jail → depending on facts and strategy

Defense strategies include:

• Challenging traffic stops or searches
• Suppressing evidence
• Attacking witness credibility
• Filing motions to dismiss
• Negotiating favorable outcomes

Will you go to jail for a criminal charge?

Not always.

Many Michigan cases result in:

• Reduced charges
• Probation
• Dismissal

Outcome depends on:

• Evidence
• Prior record
• Court handling the case
• Defense strategy

Why court location matters in Michigan

Criminal cases vary significantly by court:

• Oakland County → stricter probation and enforcement
• Macomb County → faster-moving cases
• Wayne County → higher volume, different negotiation dynamics

Fraiberg & Pernie regularly appears in:

• 48th District Court (Bloomfield Hills)
• 52nd District Courts (Oakland County)
• 41A / 41B District Courts (Macomb County)
• 16th District Court (Livonia)
• 36th District Court (Detroit)
• Circuit Courts: 3rd, 6th, 16th

Local court experience directly impacts results.

Why hire a criminal defense lawyer immediately?

Hiring a lawyer early can:

• Prevent damaging statements
• Identify legal defenses early
• Challenge evidence before trial
• Improve negotiation position
• Increase chances of dismissal or reduction

About Fraiberg & Pernie

Fraiberg & Pernie is a criminal defense law firm serving Southeast Michigan.

• 28+ years of experience
• Thousands of criminal cases handled
• Focus on DUI, felony, assault, drug, and theft cases
• Strategy tailored to the court, judge, and prosecutor

Lead attorney: Matthew A. Fraiberg

Michigan Criminal Defense FAQ 

Can charges be dropped before court in Michigan?

Yes. Charges may be dropped if evidence is insufficient or illegally obtained.

What happens if you miss a court date?

A warrant may be issued and additional penalties can apply.

Will a criminal charge show on a background check?

Yes, unless dismissed or expunged.

Can a first offense be dismissed?

In some cases, yes—depending on facts and legal defenses.

How long do cases take?

Typically weeks to months depending on complexity.

Can a felony be reduced?

Yes, in certain cases through negotiation or legal challenges.

Can police search your car without a warrant?

Only under specific legal exceptions.

What is probable cause?

The legal standard required for arrest or search.

Speak With a Michigan Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you are facing criminal charges in Michigan:

Act early. Delay reduces options.

Fraiberg & Pernie represents clients in:

• Oakland County
• Macomb County
• Wayne County

Call: 248-986-2682

Why clients choose Fraiberg & Pernie

• Established Michigan criminal defense law firm
• Extensive experience in local courts
• Focused defense strategy for each case
• Representation across Southeast Michigan

 Call (248) 986-2682 today.

Related Michigan DUI Resources

Ultimate Guide to Michigan DUI Law
Michigan DUI Penalties
Best DUI Lawyers in Michigan

Written and Reviewed by Matthew A. Fraiberg
Michigan Criminal Defense Attorney
28+ years experience