Year: 2026

When the police have reasonable suspicion of drunk driving, for example, when a driver engages in improper turning, weaving or erratic braking, they can stop the vehicle. After the driver stops, the officer will typically look for further evidence, such as odors of...

Every interaction with law enforcement professionals could potentially escalate into an arrest. If police officers recognize someone as a suspect in an open case or if they find evidence of criminal activity, an arrest is likely. In some cases, police officers must...

Too many people aren’t aware that all states, including Michigan, have some kind of “Good Samaritan” fatal overdose prevention law. These laws provide limited immunity to those who seek emergency help for someone they reasonably believe is suffering an overdose....

Michigan police officers on road patrol typically watch for any signs of intoxicated driving. Even if a traffic stop began because of a different concern, the smell of alcohol, slurred speech or other warning signs of impairment could lead to a police officer...

Those acting on behalf of the state, including police officers, can only lawfully detain people and conduct searches under specific circumstances. Some searches may violate the rights of individuals, allowing for the suppression of any evidence found if there is a...

Michigan drug charges can follow offenses involving either prescription medications or prohibited substances. In both cases, people facing drug charges could end up sentenced to jail time, fines and possibly probation. They also experience the setbacks caused by a...

Parents are often very surprised to get a phone call telling them that their child has been arrested or charged with a crime. They are worried about the impact that juvenile crime can have on a person’s future. They are also surprised because their child has not been...

Individuals interacting with police officers often feel so stressed and anxious that they make illogical decisions. They may forget their rights and make choices that increase their risk of a criminal charge or conviction. In some cases, they may end up feeling backed...

Drunk driving charges, which Michigan calls operating while intoxicated (OWI) offenses, are often levied in the wake of car crashes or failed chemical tests. Most drivers tested by police officers on the side of the road fail if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC)...

It is generally illegal to drive after drinking. Despite widespread awareness of drunk driving regulations, impaired driving is a relatively common offense in Southwestern Michigan. Motorists might assume that they have enough skill to manage their vehicles safely...