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Paul J. Tafelski Blog

Stiff Penalties For Underage Drinking and Driving in Michigan

May 26, 2023

Being charged with drunk driving in Michigan is bad news for anyone, but a DUI for drivers under the age of 21 is especially serious. In Michigan, a “zero tolerance” policy is strictly enforced, which bars young drivers from getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol, regardless of whether they’re legally intoxicated or not. Underage drivers can face OWI/DUI charges if their blood-alcohol concentration surpasses 0.02, provided they’re under 21 at the time of the incident. More grave charges, like driving while intoxicated, can be imposed if their blood alcohol content crosses the 0.08 threshold. In such challenging situations, a...

Posted in: DWI

Motorcyclists at Greater Risk of Injury in Crashes

May 24, 2023

by Michigan Defense Law

Michigan motorcyclists are susceptible to severe or fatal injury if involved in a crash with another vehicle. Simply stated, motorcyclists are at much greater risk of injury in an accident because there is no structure to protect the rider. Consequently, a motorcyclist is more likely to suffer disfiguring facial fractures, spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis, and traumatic brain injuries. Considering the dangers, one would expect bikers to take extra precautions to ensure they arrive at their destinations safely. Some don’t. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA), nearly 30% of all fatal motorcycle accidents involve riders with...

Posted in: Criminal Defense

Six Things To Know About Prescription Drugs and Driving in Michigan

May 19, 2023

by Michigan Defense Law

When it comes to prescription drugs and driving, there are several crucial factors that individuals in Michigan need to be aware of to ensure their safety and comply with the law. While prescription medications are often prescribed to treat various medical conditions, they can also have significant effects on a person’s ability to drive safely. Understanding the potential risks and legal implications of driving under the influence of prescription drugs is essential for residents of Michigan. If you find yourself facing legal issues related to driving under the influence of prescription drugs, seeking the help of a skilled lawyer is...

Posted in: Drug Crimes, DWI

What is a High BAC for a DUI?

April 20, 2023

by Michigan Defense Law

Like in most other states, having a BAC of .08 can be enough grounds to be charged with a DUI/OWI in Michigan. However, Michigan law has a separate offense reserved for those with a BAC of .17 or higher. Compared to a standard DUI/OWI charge which already carries significant penalties upon conviction, the Michigan Super Drunk Law allows for even harsher punishment. If you have been charged with a super drunk driving offense in Michigan, it is crucial to take these charges seriously. A conviction of super drunk driving can have long-standing consequences on a person’s life. Aside from the...

Posted in: Criminal Defense

The Difference Between No-Contact Orders, Protection Orders And Restraining Orders

April 20, 2023

by Michigan Defense Law

Interviewer: Let’s talk about no-contact orders or protection orders or restraining orders. How do they work and are they all the same thing? Paul Tafelski, Michigan criminal defense attorney: They’re not all the same thing but they are very similar in what they actually do. A no-contact order is typically a condition of bond and that’s set by the judge as soon as there’s a formal charge filed in almost every domestic violence case. We have had success on occasion getting judges to modify that to no assaultive contact, no abusive behavior, that kind of thing so the parties can...

Posted in: Criminal Defense

What To Do if You are Accused of Domestic Violence

April 19, 2023

by Michigan Defense Law

There can be no doubt that domestic violence is a serious matter under Michigan’s Domestic Violence Prevention and Treatment Act. However, you are in a very difficult position if the allegations against you are untrue, exaggerated, or based upon ulterior motives. Unfortunately, false accusations of domestic abuse are more common than you think. They are particularly prevalent in divorce or custody cases when one party is trying to gain an advantage in court. Even when you know you are innocent, anger, frustration, and despair may take the place of logic. Do not allow your emotions get the best of you...

Posted in: Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence

Tagged: domestic abuse, domestic violence, domestic violence arrest, domestic violence defense attorney, domestic violence defense lawyer, ppo

Breath Tests and DUI Probation in Michigan

April 19, 2023

by Michigan Defense Law

When you are charged with operating while intoxicated (OWI) in Michigan, there is a good chance you will be put on probation as part of your OWI sentencing. Typically, one requirement of OWI probation is that you abstain from consuming alcoholic beverages. Michigan employs a number of techniques to determine if you have been drinking in violation of your probation. One method is random breathalyzer tests. Unfortunately, breath tests are not always reliable and you may face a probation revocation hearing on the basis of faulty results from a breath test. If you find yourself facing drunk driving offenses, it...

Posted in: DWI

Can You Drive After DUI Before the Court Date in Michigan?

March 29, 2023

by Michigan Defense Law

Being charged with operating while intoxicated or driving under the influence (OWI/DUI) in Michigan can be a confusing and challenging time. Even the refusal of a chemical test or aggressive driving behaviors can result in additional DUI charges being filed against you. An individual can face a lot of uncertainty especially if they are not familiar with the process and do not have the help of an experienced OWI defense attorney. At Michigan Defense Law, our team of experienced Michigan DUI attorneys can help you understand your rights. Top-rated Michigan attorney Paul J. Tafelski has provided quality legal assistance and...

Posted in: DWI

Who Can See Expunged Records in Michigan?

February 15, 2023

by Michigan Defense Law

Criminal records are official documents detailing criminal offenses committed by an individual in Michigan. These records will include information regarding arrests, indictments, dispositions, and convictions collected from police records, other law enforcement agencies, the court system, and any correctional facilities. In the United States and the state of Michigan, criminal records are considered a matter of public record and can be accessed through many different methods. Under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act, criminal records can be accessed by request to the appropriate recording body. Potential employers and landlords have broad access to this information through aggregate websites or directly...

Posted in: Expungements

What is the New Expungement Law in Michigan?

January 27, 2023

by Michigan Defense Law

Having a criminal record can have far-reaching effects on an individual’s life. Not only can it impact employment and housing, but it can also have an impact on child custody and other family legal matters. An experienced Michigan expungement lawyer can assist in having certain criminal convictions on your records shielded from public view. Contact Michigan Defense Law at (248) 451-2200 today to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help. What is the New Expungement Law in Michigan? While our justice system is based on paying a debt to society, rehabilitating, and then moving on,...

Posted in: Criminal Defense, Expungements