If you are facing OWI Charges in Bloomfield Hills, your case will almost certainly be handled at the 48th District Court. This court has a reputation across Oakland County for being one of the toughest venues for drunk driving cases—and understanding how it works can make all the difference in your outcome.
At Fraiberg & Pernie, we regularly defend clients in this court and know firsthand how to navigate its judges, procedures, and expectations.
About the 48th District Court
The 48th District Court is located at 4280 Telegraph Road in Bloomfield Hills and handles misdemeanor criminal cases—including OWI—from start to finish, as well as the early stages of felony proceedings.
It serves several Oakland County communities, including Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham, West Bloomfield, and surrounding areas.
For OWI defendants, this court is known for:
- Strict probation terms
- Close judicial oversight
- Real risk of jail—even on first offenses
Judges in the 48th District Court
Your case will be assigned to one of three judges:
- Marc Barron
- Diane D’Agostini
- Kimberly Small
All three judges preside over OWI and criminal cases and are widely regarded as experienced and demanding when it comes to alcohol-related driving offenses.
In fact, the 48th District Court is often described as a “no-nonsense” jurisdiction, where judges carefully scrutinize defendants and frequently impose meaningful consequences.
Understanding OWI Charges in Michigan
In Michigan, OWI is governed by state law and generally applies when a driver operates a vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher or is otherwise impaired.
Common OWI Charges Include:
- OWI (Operating While Intoxicated)
- OWVI (Operating While Visibly Impaired)
- High BAC / “Super Drunk” (.17 or higher)
- Second or Third Offense OWI
- OWI Causing Injury or Death (felony cases)
Penalties for OWI in the 48th District Court
The consequences of an OWI conviction in Bloomfield Hills can be severe—even for first-time offenders.
First-Offense OWI May Include:
- Up to 93 days in jail
- Fines up to $500
- License suspension (typically 30 days full + restricted period)
- Community service (up to 360 hours)
- Alcohol education or treatment programs
High BAC (“Super Drunk”) Enhancements:
- Up to 180 days in jail
- Longer license suspension
- Ignition interlock device requirements
Additional Consequences:
- Probation with strict conditions
- Random alcohol/drug testing
- Increased insurance rates
- Permanent criminal record
Importantly, the 48th District Court is known for actually imposing jail in some first-offense cases, depending on the facts and the judge.
Why the 48th District Court Is Different
Many courts in Michigan treat first-time OWI offenders with leniency. The 48th District Court is different.
Here’s why:
- Judges expect proactive rehabilitation, not excuses
- Probation violations are treated seriously
- Sentencing can include jail, even for first offenses
- The court demands detailed alcohol assessments and compliance
This makes experienced legal representation essential—not optional.
How Fraiberg & Pernie Defends OWI Cases
At Fraiberg & Pernie, we take a strategic, aggressive, and proactive approach to OWI defense in Bloomfield Hills.
1. Early Case Intervention
We begin working immediately to:
- Challenge the traffic stop
- Review breath/blood test accuracy
- Identify constitutional violations
2. Court-Specific Strategy
Each judge in the 48th District Court has different expectations. We tailor your defense accordingly.
3. Mitigation & Sentencing Advocacy
Because this court is strict, we:
- Prepare clients before the first court date
- Build a strong mitigation package
- Position you to avoid jail whenever possible
4. Negotiation & Trial Readiness
Whether negotiating reductions (like reckless driving) or preparing for trial, we are always ready to push your case forward.
Why Choose Fraiberg & Pernie
Choosing the right lawyer in the 48th District Court can directly impact whether you face jail, probation, or reduced charges.
Fraiberg & Pernie stands out because:
- Deep experience in Oakland County OWI defense
- Familiarity with all three judges and courtroom practices
- Proven ability to reduce or dismiss charges
- Client-focused, aggressive representation
In a court known for being tough, you need a law firm that is tougher.
What To Do If You’re Charged with OWI
If you’ve been arrested for OWI in Bloomfield Hills:
- Do not plead guilty immediately
- Act quickly—timelines matter
- Hire an experienced OWI defense attorney familiar with the 48th District Court
Early action can significantly change the trajectory of your case.
Facing an OWI in Bloomfield Hills’ 48th District Court? The judges are strict and penalties can include jail, even for a first offense. Fraiberg & Pernie are experienced OWI defense attorneys who know this court and fight to reduce or dismiss charges.