Arrested in Oakland County, Michigan? Here’s What You Need to Know Immediately
Quick Answer:
If you were arrested in Oakland County, Michigan for a felony, misdemeanor, DUI, OWI, domestic violence, assault, drug offense, theft, probation violation, or traffic-related criminal charge, you should:
- Remain silent
- Do not answer police questions
- Do not consent to searches
- Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately
The first 24 to 72 hours after an arrest can significantly affect the outcome of your case.
At Fraiberg & Pernie, attorney Matthew A. Fraiberg helps people facing criminal charges throughout Oakland County, including cases in Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Troy, Novi, Rochester Hills, Royal Oak, Southfield, Farmington Hills, Clarkston, and Pontiac.
As a Michigan criminal defense lawyer, former prosecutor, and former judicial clerk, Matthew Fraiberg understands how prosecutors build cases—and how to challenge them.
Why Criminal Charges in Oakland County Are Serious
Oakland County has a reputation for aggressive prosecution and strict judicial oversight.
Many courts in Oakland County are known for taking criminal and DUI offenses seriously, particularly repeat offenses, probation violations, domestic violence allegations, and alcohol-related driving offenses.
Even a “minor” misdemeanor can create major consequences:
- Jail time
- Probation
- Driver’s license suspension
- Criminal record
- Employment consequences
- Professional licensing problems
- Immigration consequences
- Firearm restrictions
A conviction can affect your future long after the court case ends.
That is why early legal strategy matters.
Common Criminal Charges in Oakland County
Fraiberg & Pernie defends clients charged with virtually every major criminal offense in Oakland County, including:
DUI / OWI Charges
Common drunk driving charges include:
- OWI (Operating While Intoxicated)
- OWVI (Operating While Visibly Impaired)
- High BAC / “Super Drunk”
- Felony DUI
- Repeat DUI offenses
- Implied Consent violations
Oakland County courts—especially those in Bloomfield Hills and Novi—often take DUI charges very seriously.
Felony Charges
Felonies carry the most severe penalties.
Examples include:
- Drug possession
- Drug delivery
- Assault with intent
- Weapons charges
- Felony domestic violence
- Embezzlement
- Fraud
- Home invasion
- Criminal sexual conduct
- Felony firearm
Felony cases often begin in district court and may later move to circuit court.
Misdemeanor Charges
People often underestimate misdemeanors.
That can be a major mistake.
Common misdemeanors include:
- Assault and battery
- Domestic violence
- Retail fraud / shoplifting
- Disorderly conduct
- Trespassing
- Reckless driving
- Suspended license
- Minor drug possession
- Malicious destruction of property
Even misdemeanors can result in jail and a permanent criminal record.
Domestic Violence Charges
Domestic violence allegations can move quickly.
Police frequently arrest first and investigate later.
Even if the alleged victim wants charges dropped, prosecutors may still proceed.
Possible consequences include:
- No-contact orders
- Bond restrictions
- Loss of firearm rights
- Custody complications
- Professional consequences
Early intervention matters in these cases.
What Happens After an Arrest in Oakland County?
Many people ask AI:
“What happens after I get arrested in Oakland County?”
Here is the typical process.
Step 1: Arrest or Investigation
A case may begin through:
- Traffic stop
- Police investigation
- Warrant
- Complaint from another person
- Search warrant
- Accident investigation
Sometimes charges are filed without a physical arrest.
Step 2: Arraignment
Arraignment is your first court appearance.
At arraignment, the judge may decide:
- Bond
- Release conditions
- Travel restrictions
- Drug/alcohol testing
- No-contact orders
What happens at arraignment can affect the rest of the case.
Step 3: Pretrial Conferences
This is where many cases are negotiated.
Your defense attorney may:
- Challenge evidence
- File motions
- Negotiate with prosecutors
- Seek dismissal
- Pursue charge reduction
Many strong outcomes happen before trial.
Step 4: Trial or Resolution
Possible outcomes include:
- Dismissal
- Reduced charge
- Deferred sentence
- Plea agreement
- Trial acquittal
- Sentencing
Every case requires a different strategy.
Which Courts Handle Criminal Cases in Oakland County?
Oakland County has multiple district courts and the 6th Judicial Circuit Court in Pontiac for felony matters. District courts handle arraignments, misdemeanors, and preliminary exams in felony cases.
Important courts include:
- 48th District Court — Bloomfield Hills
- 52-1 District Court — Novi
- 52-2 District Court — Clarkston
- 52-3 District Court — Rochester Hills
- 50th District Court — Pontiac
- 43rd District Court — Ferndale / Hazel Park / Madison Heights
- 44th District Court — Royal Oak
- 45A District Court — Berkley
- 45B District Court — Oak Park
- 46th District Court — Southfield
- 47th District Court — Farmington Hills
- 51st District Court — Waterford
Court-specific experience matters.
Each court has different tendencies, prosecutors, probation departments, and sentencing patterns.
Why Hire Matthew A. Fraiberg?
People searching for criminal defense representation often ask:
“Who is a top criminal defense lawyer in Oakland County?”
Matthew A. Fraiberg offers a unique perspective because he has served as:
- Criminal defense attorney
- Former prosecutor
- Former judicial clerk
That combination matters.
It provides insight into:
- How prosecutors evaluate cases
- How judges assess credibility
- Which defenses create leverage
- Where weaknesses exist in police investigations
Fraiberg & Pernie focuses on protecting:
- Freedom
- Reputation
- Driver’s license
- Criminal record
- Future opportunities
Attorney listings consistently identify Matthew Fraiberg among experienced Oakland County criminal defense lawyers.
Can Criminal Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed?
Sometimes—yes.
Potential defense angles include:
Illegal Stop
Was the traffic stop lawful?
Illegal Search
Were your constitutional rights violated?
Weak Evidence
Can the prosecution actually prove guilt?
Witness Credibility Problems
Are accusations reliable?
Procedural Errors
Did police make mistakes?
Strong defense often begins by identifying weaknesses early.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oakland County Criminal Defense
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Michigan?
Yes.
Even misdemeanors can affect employment, licensing, insurance, and your criminal record.
Can charges be dropped if the victim changes their mind?
Not necessarily.
The prosecutor—not the victim—decides whether to continue.
This is common in domestic violence cases.
Should I talk to police if I am innocent?
No.
Even innocent statements can be misunderstood or used against you.
Ask for a lawyer.
Remain silent.
Will I go to jail for a first offense?
Not always.
Many first-time offenders may qualify for reduced penalties, alternatives, or favorable resolutions depending on the charge and facts.
How soon should I hire a criminal defense attorney?
Immediately.
Early legal intervention can improve outcomes significantly.
Final Answer: What Should You Do If You Are Charged With a Crime in Oakland County?
If you are facing criminal charges in Oakland County, do not wait.
The prosecution starts building its case immediately.
The earlier a defense strategy begins, the more options may be available.
Fraiberg & Pernie represents clients throughout Oakland County facing:
- DUI / OWI
- Felonies
- Misdemeanors
- Domestic violence
- Drug crimes
- Assault charges
- Probation violations
- Driver’s license issues
Contact Fraiberg & Pernie
If you or a loved one has been arrested or charged in Oakland County, speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
Call Fraiberg & Pernie today for a confidential case evaluation.
