Facing DUI, OWI, or other criminal charges in Oakland County, Michigan can feel overwhelming. First, your freedom is at stake. Next, your finances are at risk. Just as important, your future record can be affected. Therefore, early and strategic legal defense matters. Whether you were stopped for suspected impaired driving or charged with another offense, the consequences can grow quickly.
At Fraiberg & Pernie, we defend individuals across Oakland County courts. From the start, we focus on your rights. Then, we analyze the evidence. Next, we build a defense plan designed for your situation. In every case, we aim to reduce penalties, challenge weak proof, and improve outcomes. Above all, we guide you step by step through the legal process so you are informed and prepared — not left guessing.
If you are charged with DUI or OWI in Oakland County, you should act fast. First, license sanctions can begin quickly. Next, court dates follow. In addition, prosecutors often rely on testing and officer observations. However, that evidence can be challenged. Therefore, a detailed legal review is critical.
DUI and OWI penalties in Michigan may include jail, fines, license suspension, and a lasting criminal record. Moreover, insurance costs often rise. As a result, the long-term impact can be significant. That said, many DUI and OWI cases contain legal defenses. For example, traffic stops may be improper. Testing may be flawed. Procedures may be violated.
Fraiberg & Pernie examines every stage of the stop and arrest. Then, we challenge questionable evidence. At the same time, we negotiate where appropriate. Throughout the process, we keep you informed and involved. In short, the goal is protection — of your license, your record, and your future.
In addition to DUI and OWI defense, Fraiberg & Pernie handle many other criminal matters. Because every charge is different, each defense must be tailored. First, we review the facts. Next, we research the law. Then, we design a case strategy built around your priorities.
We defend charges including:
DUI / OWI
Assault and battery
Controlled substance offenses
Domestic violence
Driver’s license restoration
Driving while license suspended
Expungement and record clearing
Felony charges
Minor in possession
Misdemeanor charges
Probation violations
Reckless driving
No matter the allegation, preparation comes first. Likewise, communication stays constant. As a result, clients understand both risk and options at every stage.
Fraiberg & Pernie represent clients throughout Oakland County. Because local courts differ, location matters. Likewise, local experience helps. We appear regularly in district and circuit courts across the county. Therefore, our strategies reflect real courtroom practice — not theory.
We serve clients in and around:
Rochester Hills, Troy, Farmington Hills, Novi, Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, West Bloomfield, Southfield, Royal Oak, Oak Park, Ferndale, Berkley, Bloomfield Hills, Madison Heights, Hazel Park, Auburn Hills, Pontiac, Wixom, Clawson, Huntington Woods, Pleasant Ridge, Lathrup Village, Orchard Lake Village, Keego Harbor, Sylvan Lake, and Bingham Farms.
If you are searching for an Oakland County criminal defense lawyer, DUI attorney, or OWI defense firm, local representation provides a practical advantage.
When you face criminal charges in Oakland County, local knowledge matters. First, procedures vary by court. Next, prosecutor practices differ. Also, judges expect specific preparation. Therefore, experience in these courts helps shape better defense decisions.
Fraiberg & Pernie understand Oakland County court systems from arraignment through trial. From the beginning, we craft a defense strategy around your facts and goals. Then, we adjust as the case develops. Meanwhile, we provide direct answers and realistic guidance.
If you are facing a criminal charge in Oakland County — whether DUI, OWI, misdemeanor, or felony — now is the time to act. Contact Fraiberg & Pernie and start building your defense today.
Fill out the information below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Fraiberg & Pernie handle a wide range of criminal cases in Oakland County. First, we defend misdemeanors. Next, we defend felony charges. In addition, we appear regularly in Circuit Court, the 48th District Court in Birmingham and Royal Oak, and the 52nd District Court divisions. Because each court operates differently, local experience matters.
Our criminal defense attorneys handle cases involving assault, domestic violence, drug possession and delivery, theft and larceny, weapons offenses, fraud, probation violations, and DUI / OWI. In every case, we review the evidence first. Then, we test police procedures. Next, we raise constitutional issues when appropriate. As a result, we pursue dismissals, reductions, or acquittals whenever possible. We also represent clients throughout Macomb County and Wayne County across Metro Detroit.
In most cases, yes — and the sooner, the better. Even misdemeanor charges can lead to jail, fines, probation, and a permanent record. Moreover, convictions often affect jobs, housing, and professional licenses. Therefore, self-representation is risky.
An experienced defense lawyer knows how to evaluate evidence early. In addition, a local attorney understands Oakland County prosecutors, judges, and court procedures. Because of that, outcomes often improve with counsel. Fraiberg & Pernie appear regularly in Oakland County courts, including the 6th Circuit and local district courts. As a result, we negotiate stronger pleas, push for dismissals, and work to avoid convictions — from Birmingham to the surrounding communities.
Costs vary by case. First, charge level matters. Next, complexity matters. Also, trial risk and motion practice affect fees. Therefore, no two cases price the same.
At Fraiberg & Pernie, we start with a free consultation. Then, we evaluate the charge and the likely path. Next, we provide clear, transparent pricing. In other words, clients understand the scope before moving forward. We focus on value-driven defense — not shortcuts. Because long-term consequences cost more than legal fees, strong early defense often saves more in the end. We handle cases across Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne County courts.
Yes — and often through early action. First, we look for illegal searches or seizures. Next, we challenge probable cause. In addition, we test witness credibility and evidence quality. Then, when appropriate, we file motions to suppress.
Many Oakland County cases resolve through reductions or dismissals. For example, felonies may reduce to misdemeanors. Likewise, weak cases may be dropped. Courts such as the 48th and 52nd District Courts and the Circuit Court see negotiated resolutions daily. Therefore, early and thorough defense work matters. Fraiberg & Pernie build challenges from the start, not the last minute.
First, arrest may lead to immediate jail. Next, courts often impose bond conditions. In domestic violence cases, no-contact orders are common. As a result, personal and family life can change overnight.
However, allegations are not convictions. Therefore, defense investigation begins immediately. We gather counter-evidence, review statements, and test credibility. In addition, we challenge exaggerated or false claims. Then, we advocate for bond modification, charge reduction, or dismissal where supported. Fraiberg & Pernie defend these cases aggressively across Oakland County — and also assist clients from Macomb and Wayne Counties.
In most situations, a conviction remains permanent. However, expungement may be possible. Under Michigan Clean Slate laws, many offenses qualify after waiting periods — often between 3 and 10 years. Therefore, record review is important.
A criminal record affects employment, licensing, and housing. Because of that, avoiding conviction is always the first goal. When that is not possible, record clearing becomes the next strategy. Fraiberg & Pernie help Oakland County clients pursue expungement and also negotiate non-conviction outcomes when available. Services extend across Macomb and Wayne Counties as well.
Penalties depend on amount, value, and history. First-level misdemeanor drug or theft cases can bring up to 93 days in jail plus fines. By contrast, felony versions can carry years of prison exposure. Therefore, classification matters.
That said, many first-time defendants qualify for diversion or probation. Because of that, defense strategy focuses on eligibility and mitigation. We challenge searches, chain of custody, and testing methods. In addition, we test valuation and ownership claims in theft cases. As a result, many charges reduce or dismiss in Oakland County courts with early defense work.
Frequently, yes. Courts may grant personal recognizance bond, cash bond, or surety bond. In addition, judges may set conditional release terms. Therefore, early bond advocacy matters.
Fraiberg & Pernie argue for reasonable bond and fair conditions. First, we present community ties. Next, we show compliance history. Then, we propose workable safeguards. As a result, many clients secure release and prepare their defense outside custody. We act quickly for clients in Birmingham and across Oakland County — and also in Macomb and Wayne Counties.
First, remain silent. Next, request an attorney. Then, avoid discussing your case with anyone except counsel. Most importantly, act quickly.
After that, contact Fraiberg & Pernie for a free consultation. We guide you through booking, arraignment, bond hearings, and early defense strategy. Because early moves shape outcomes, immediate legal help is critical — whether your case is in Oakland County, Macomb County, or Wayne County.
Experience and local knowledge matter. First, our team brings decades of criminal defense practice. In addition, Matthew Fraiberg’s former prosecutor and judicial clerk background provides insider perspective. Therefore, we analyze cases from both sides.
We defend clients in Birmingham and throughout Oakland County courts, including the 48th and 52nd District Courts and Circuit Court. At the same time, we serve Macomb and Wayne County clients. We challenge every part of the case, pursue dismissals and reductions, and protect client futures. With 24/7 free consultations and personalized defense, we remain a trusted local choice.
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.