When faced with a DUI charge in Michigan, the arraignment is your first encounter with the judicial system—a pivotal moment that lays the groundwork for what comes next. This initial step can be as bewildering as it is critical, but it’s important to remember that understanding this process is a key factor in effectively managing your case. This understanding becomes your shield and guide as you enter the complexities of the legal world.
At Michigan Defense Law, our team of Oakland County DUI lawyers stands ready to clarify the DUI arraignment process for you. Our approach is rooted in a deep knowledge of the local legal environment, paired with a commitment to delivering personalized support. We take careful consideration of the specifics of your case and can explain the intricacies involved such as what can happen when entering a guilty plea. We serve not just as your lawyers; but as your advocates, working diligently to help inform you of your options and representing your best interests.
As you stand at the outset of this legal challenge, empower yourself with the insight and support of a Michigan Defense Law DUI attorney. By doing so, you’re taking a proactive step towards not just defending your case, but also protecting your rights. The importance of having a well-informed ally by your side cannot be overstated.
Contact Michigan Defense Law today at (248) 451-2200 to begin charting a course through your DUI arraignment with a team that is ready to stand with you every step of the way.
Schedule a
Free Consultation
I’ve used Paul for a BAIID appeal hearing multiple times. He has been very professional is very knowledgeable in the laws applicable. I’ve used other attorneys in the past but have never had the satisfaction as I’ve had with Paul. Most attorneys will over promise but be hard to reach after the contract is signed. Despite the time of day or the day of the week, he has always immediately responded to me. In addition, his assistant Karen has always been incredibly helpful in making calls to the SOS on my behalf. Although he may not have all the answers immediately, his immediate reply has reassured me numerous times. Just knowing that he’s reachable allayed much of my anxiety. In the end, he went above and beyond to make sure everything worked out. I would gladly recommend him to friends and family without hesitation.
Schedule a
Free Consultation
Arraignments are the first hearings that occur after arrests, and they take place before judges or magistrates. You will be informed of the formal charges against you and told your rights, but you will also be asked whether you plead guilty or not guilty. If you were arrested and are facing a DUI arraignment, you should call the experienced trial attorneys at Michigan Defense Law. Our Oakland County DUI lawyers may be able to represent you in the proceedings, help determine the best strategy for your arraignment. It is important to plan and prepare for an OWI arraignment because things can go wrong for the unprepared. The court will be setting bond and bond conditions that can significantly impact your ability to remain free while your OWI case is defended and also affect your ability to carry on with your employment, depending on your schedule and travel needs. It is much easier and smarter to make sure you properly handle your arraignment than it is to go back later and try and fix something that went wrong.
Once you hear the charges, you will be asked to enter a plea. It is wise to have a skilled Oakland County DUI lawyer represent you at the arraignment so that you can make sure that you understand the plea that you are entering and the potential consequences. People charged with a misdemeanor Operating While Intoxicated or Operating While Visibly Impaired can plead guilty or stand mute, which is essentially pleading not guilty. Standing mute means that you acknowledge the court’s jurisdiction as well. Almost always, the proper thing to do at arraignment is to plead not guilty or stand mute. In some rare circumstances, such as you have been charged with a first offense OWI when it really should be a third offense felony, you may want to lock in the plea to avoid the more serious charge being added later. This is something that should be thoroughly discussed with an experienced attorney before you make a decision.
If you are charged with felony DUI, the court will schedule a date for your probable cause conference and preliminary examination. The probable cause conference should be set 7-14 days after the arraignment date, and your preliminary examination date should be set 5-7 days after the date of the probable cause conference. The court will make sure that you have been fingerprinted, as the law requires.
Before you make any decisions, it is crucial that you employ the assistance of a skilled Oakland County DUI lawyer. Contact Michigan Defense Law today to schedule a consultation. We provide tailored assistance aimed at protecting your best interests.
Perhaps the most important part of the arraignment process in a drunk driving/ OWI case is setting bond.
MCR 6.06 provides that the court can order you to be held in custody pending trial, released on your personal recognizance or an unsecured appearance bond, or released conditionally with or without money bail. The court will look at whether pretrial release is appropriate; in cases of misdemeanor DUI, it usually is. Assuming that you can be released, the court will then set bond. It will need to determine the amount of bond, along with bond conditions.
The two factors the court looks at in setting bond are whether you are likely to appear for your court dates and whether you are a danger to the public. Because drunk driving is considered a threat to the public the court takes setting bond in these cases more seriously. If you have priors that make you look like someone with a substance abuse problem, they are more likely to set conditions that will be difficult for you to comply with. For example, posting cash to stay out of jail, daily breath or drug testing, AA attendance, alcohol tether, etc. It is important to be prepared to face these questions and issues before walking into the court for the arraignment. Having a plan ahead of time for convincing the court you are not a threat can lead to reduced bond conditions. Generally, appearing with an Oakland County lawyer demonstrates to the court that you understand the seriousness of the charges you are facing and lends confidence that you will follow the rules.
I didn’t know much about the entire legal process so Paul was a great Lawyer for me. He took the time to explain everything without making me feel dumb. He fought for me and got me a great outcome for my case. He is a great guy that eased my stress about my case and I would recommend him to anyone. Thank you Paul!
Facing a DUI arraignment in Oakland County can be a daunting experience, but with the right guidance, you can navigate this initial stage with greater clarity and confidence. Understanding each step of the process is key to making informed decisions about your case and future.
At Michigan Defense Law, your unique situation is the cornerstone of the personalized legal insight you’ll receive. Our Oakland County DWI/OWI attorneys are not just committed to providing advice and support tailored to your case, but they are also steadfast in their dedication to advocate for your rights consistently and fervently. We can map out a strategic defense plan that aligns with your best interests with each step taken a step toward a favorable outcome.
Your journey through the DUI arraignment process is one you need not walk alone. The attorneys at Michigan Defense Law are prepared to stand with you. By partnering with us, you’re not just gaining legal assistance; you’re empowering yourself with knowledge and advocacy that can make a real difference in your case. Contact Michigan Defense Law today to discuss your situation and take a proactive step towards securing a legal ally who is dedicated to protecting your rights and best interests. Michigan Defense Law represents clients in Oakland, Wayne, Macomb, and Washtenaw Counties.
Call us at (248) 451-2200 or complete our online form.
Schedule a
Free Consultation
Navigation
Navigation
Open Hours
Disclaimer: The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established. Please be advised that the results achieved in any given case depend upon the exact facts and circumstances of that case. Michigan Defense Law cannot guarantee a specific result in any legal matter. Any testimonial or case result listed on this site is based on an actual legal case and represents the results achieved in that particular case, and does not constitute a guarantee, warranty or prediction of the outcome of any other legal matter. Privacy Policy | Terms of Service.