DUI Pretrial Motions

15 Minute Observation Period

Pretrial motions could include challenging the 15 minute observation period needed to validate a Datamaster test or the fact the the testing logs may indicate a violation of the Administrative Rules for Datamaster operation. The Standard Field Sobriety Tests can be challenged as well since the officer will rely on these heavily to show that the defendants ability to operate a motor vehicle was impaired by alcohol use. Many attorneys will charge on an hourly basis for criminal defense. While this approach is perfectly acceptable and allowed by the ethics rules, it could cause a defendant to hesitate when making the decision to file motions before trial. Any motions require the attorney to strictly comply with Michigan Court Rules and give notice to the prosecuting attorney and schedule a hearing before the court. It requires a written motion laying out the facts of the case as well as any argument. In addition, the Michigan Court Rules mandate that any issue of law, such as evidentiary issues, be fully briefed for the court.

Motions Can Mean Extra Cost to the Defendant

This can mean a significant cost to the client for these motions. Our firm, with its Trial Assurance Guarantee, includes all pretrial motions in its fixed fees and puts that in writing so that we can make an intelligent and informed decision as to strategy. Not a decision based on finances. This applies to the decision to go to trial as well if the prosecutor is being unreasonable and has a hardened stance in plea negotiations. The other strategy consideration is that filing pretrial motions could give the police officers an opportunity to practice their testimony in preparation for a trial. However, there are certain evidentiary issues that MUST be filed before a trial pursuant to Michigan Court Rule and any scheduling orders given by the trial court. A skilled trial attorney should not wait until evidence is placed before a jury and then object to the admission as the damage may have already been done. This can easily be handled with a Motion in Limine which simply means a motion before trial to exclude the jury from hearing certain evidence either because it violates the rules of evidence of is highly prejudicial to the case. Therefore, it is imperative to retain the services of an attorney that is intimately familiar with the Michigan Rules of Evidence as it can dramatically effect your case.

Free Michigan DUI Consultation

Get a risk free, no obligation review of your DUI case from an attorney that concentrates their practice on Michigan DUI defense.

During this free telephone consultation, you will find out the following:

• A detailed overview of the court process in your jurisdiction
• Exactly how much your DUI defense will cost
• Why our law firm is uniquely qualified to handle your DUI case

Call our Michigan DUI Hotline at (616) 502-1646