The most likely circumstance under which someone will interact with police officers is when they're driving down the road in their vehicle. However, what seems like a stop for a relatively minor traffic offense can turn into a motorist's arrest on drug charges if the...
When does your right to remain silent apply?
You have probably heard that you have a right to remain silent as an American citizen. The ability to avoid self-incrimination is a hallmark of the justice system in this country. If you watch police TV shows and movies, they often start reciting the Miranda Rights --...
How will expungements change in Michigan this month?
A criminal record can hold you back for decades. A single assault conviction or drug possession charge could limit your educational and employment opportunities. Expungements are the legal process that allows people to seal the record of previous legal issues to move...
What drugs are addictive?
To many people, the idea that “drugs are addictive” is simply a given. They assume that all drugs pose a risk of addiction that can later lead to substance abuse and other problems. They may be surprised by what they find. For instance, marijuana is generally thought...
Could Sobriety Court be an ideal choice in your OWI case?
Michigan's operating while intoxicated (OWI) laws prohibit individuals from operating vehicles while under the influence of drugs, alcohol or any other intoxicating substance. These can all impact the ability to safely operate a vehicle. Any motorist with an .08 or...
A look at Michigan’s shoplifting laws
As in other states, shoplifting is a criminal offense in Michigan. Under state law, shoplifting is retail fraud. The consequences upon conviction are harsher than you may have thought. What constitutes shoplifting? Retail fraud occurs through the following actions:...
What does the zero tolerance law mean for a young driver?
Law enforcement agencies in Michigan are always on the lookout for impaired drivers. Anyone behind the wheel of a vehicle could get pulled over for erratic driving and possibly charged if the evidence indicates chemical impairment or alcohol intoxication. Anyone with...
When one drink isn’t really one drink
When your doctor asks you how many drinks you have per week, or when a police officer asks you how many drinks you had that evening, do you know exactly how to count them? It seems simple enough, but many people make critical mistakes that can lead to DUI arrests. ...
What happens if you get a DUI in Michigan?
Like in all other states, it is illegal to drive while impaired in Michigan. Drivers are not legally able to operate a vehicle when they have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or greater. If the person is under the age of 21, then they cannot drive legally if they...
Should I let the police inside my home?
When you were a child, your mom probably taught you not to open the door to strangers, but what about if the strangers are police officers? Whether you own your own home or rent it, finding a pair of police officers at the door can be worrying. It usually means...
