You don’t deal with the police often, so you’re nervous when they pull up in the driveway. One of the officers comes to the door and asks to come inside. You know that a search warrant means officers can enter your home even if you tell them that you’d rather they...
When are police on the lookout for DUIs in the summer?
After Memorial Day, the police are on high alert for DUIs. Of course, they look for drunk drivers at any time of the year, but with the increase in travel, parties and events, summer is a time when there are more people to monitor. Whether it is due to boating or...
What is reckless driving?
Many individuals have heard the terminology "reckless driving" thrown around to describe various ways someone may operate a vehicle. Few realize that it's an actual criminal offense and that it's a term only used to describe a handful of ways in which someone may...
Can the police search my car looking for drugs?
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...
