DUI Lawyer Southfield, MI
When you're searching for a DUI lawyer near me, it's likely because you're facing a situation that feels overwhelming. At Barone Defense Firm, we understand how much a DUI charge can disrupt your life. In Southfield, a single mistake can put your freedom, your career, and your future at risk. That’s why we take a supportive and strategic approach, working closely with you to navigate the legal process with clarity and care.
How We Fight DUI Charges in SouthfieldWhen Barone Defense steps in, we begin by listening. What happened from the time of the traffic stop through the arrest is everything. We:
- Carefully review every detail of the arrest: roadside tests, police reports, breathalyzer or blood draw procedures, whether your rights were respected.
- Investigate the evidence: Was the sobriety test administered correctly? Was the BAC (blood alcohol concentration) test calibrated and conducted properly?
- Identify constitutional issues: Did law enforcement follow legal protocols for search, seizure, or Miranda warnings?
- Explore possible defenses such as an inaccurate breath test, improper field sobriety protocol, medical factors, mistakes in procedure, or even misidentification.
Through all of this, our goal is to protect your rights, reduce the impact of the charge, and aim for the most favorable outcome possible, whether that’s dismissal, reduction of charges, or minimizing penalties.
Types of DUI Cases We HandleFirst-Offense DUI/OWI DefenseIf this is your first DUI or OWI arrest in Michigan, the law may impose serious penalties, but first-time doesn’t mean powerless. We focus on minimizing long-term consequences including license issues, fines, and criminal record exposure.
Repeat DUI ChargesMultiple offences carry heavier penalties in Southfield and Michigan. Whether it’s your second, third, or more, we work to mitigate risk by scrutinizing past convictions, procedural errors, and whether state laws or constitutional rights were violated.
High BAC (“Super Drunk”) DUIMichigan treats high BAC levels more severely. If your blood alcohol content was very high, you’ll face steeper fines, longer license suspensions, and other serious outcomes. We assess whether the testing equipment was maintained properly, if it was used correctly, and whether results are reliable.
DUI Involving Injury or DeathWhen a DUI leads to injury or worse, the stakes increase dramatically. Such charges often bring more complex legal proceedings. We investigate accident reconstruction, medical reports, witness statements, and liability issues to build an aggressive defense aligned with the gravity of these cases.
Underage DUI (Zero Tolerance Law)Michigan’s zero tolerance law is strict for drivers under 21. Even small amounts of alcohol may trigger charges. We examine the evidence: chemical test results, field sobriety tests, and work to minimize damage to your record, your insurance, and your future.
DUI for Commercial DriversDrivers holding commercial licenses face additional consequences under both state and federal regulations. A DUI on your CDL can affect your livelihood. We understand how to address these special rules, possible disqualifications, and how to protect your license status.
Drug-Related OWI ChargesNot all OWIs involve alcohol. If you’re charged with drug-related impairment, prescription, over-the-counter, or illegal substances, we look into the testing methods (including chemical analysis), timing, officer training, and whether your rights were respected to seek the best possible direction forward.
The DUI Process in Southfield: From Arrest to ResolutionTraffic Stop / ArrestThe process usually begins with a traffic stop or accident. Law enforcement may request sobriety tests or chemical tests.
Booking & Initial Court AppearanceOnce arrested, you’ll be booked and likely have a first court appearance. An arraignment is where charges are read and pleas can be entered.
Pre-Trial Discovery & MotionsWe obtain all evidence: breath or blood test records, officer reports, calibration logs, and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss counts if legal rights were violated.
Negotiation or TrialMany cases resolve through plea negotiation, but we prepare aggressively for trial if that's what your defense requires.
Sentencing or ResolutionDepending on the outcome, penalties may include fines, license suspension, probation, community service, or other consequences. We advocate for alternative sentencing where possible and work to limit long-term impact.
DUI Charge? Your Defense Starts HereIf you’re facing DUI or OWI charges in Southfield, taking action quickly can make a difference. You deserve a strong, dedicated defense team that treats you like a person, not a case file. Contact Barone Defense Firm today to discuss the facts of your situation, understand your options, and begin protecting what matters: your future, your reputation, your freedom.