Elmen Legal Criminal Defense Blogs

Stay informed and empowered with legal insights from Ann Arbor criminal defense attorney Robert Elmen. Robert's blog offers practical advice, case law updates, and clear explanations of Michigan criminal laws. Whether you’re facing charges or simply want to better understand your rights, our blog's are valuable resources for anyone navigating the justice system.


 

Beyond Jail Time: The Collateral Consequences of a Michigan Felonious Assault Conviction.

Beyond Jail Time: The Collateral Consequences of a Michigan Felonious Assault Conviction

Felonious assault is a serious crime that carries severe legal consequences, even for individuals with no prior criminal record. In addition to jail time, fines, and probation, a conviction for felonious assault can result in the loss of certain civi… Read More
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Challenging FSTs (Field Sobriety Tests) in a Michigan OWI Case.

Challenging FSTs (Field Sobriety Tests) in a Michigan OWI Case

When police officers suspect someone is driving while under the influence of alcohol, one of the first things they ask the driver to do is perform Field Sobriety Tests, or “FSTs”. But what are Field Sobriety Tests? Are the results admissible in c… Read More
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Categories: Drunk Driving / OWI
Close-up of a men driving and smoking joint visual concept for a blog discussing Marijuana DUI in Michigan: why legal means you can still get arrested for driving while high.

Marijuana DUI in Michigan: Why Legal Means You Can Still Get Arrested for Operating While High

Even though marijuana is legal in Michigan, driving while under the influence of marijuana is still against the law. The crime of Operating Under the Influence of Drugs (OUID), commonly referred to as impaired driving or drugged driving, is treated s… Read More
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Suspect in handcuffs being interviewed by detectives in dark interrogation room. Visual concept for a blog discussing plea bargain pros and cons.

Plea Bargain or Trial in a Michigan Homicide Case

Plea bargaining plays an important role in the criminal legal system, particularly in homicide cases. At its core, a plea bargain involves negotiations between the prosecutor and defense counsel in which the defendant may agree to plead guilty to a l… Read More
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Burglar with crowbar next to a window. Visual for a criminal defense law firm blog discussing breaking and entering charges,

What is the Penalty for Breaking and Entering in Michigan?

Breaking and entering is a serious crime, and a conviction carries severe penalties, including a high likelihood of prison time. For individuals charged with breaking and entering, understanding the consequences you could face and the legal defenses… Read More
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Couple undressing in a park. Visual concept for a blog discussing gross indecency charges in Michigan.

What is Gross Indecency?

Gross indecency is a serious criminal charge, and a conviction carries severe consequences. Whether you were charged or you are supporting someone facing these charges, an experienced sex crimes defense attorney can help you understand the criminal c… Read More
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Categories: Sex-Related Charges
The phrase A Clean Slate handwritten on a used blackboard. Visual concept for a blog discussing Michigan's Clean Slate Law: Automatic Expungement.

Michigan's Clean Slate Law: Automatic Expungement and Clearing Your Record

If you have a criminal record, you may be concerned that it will affect you long after you have paid your fines and your sentence is complete. As you know, a criminal conviction can follow you for years, impacting your ability to find a job, secure h… Read More
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A man with his hands raised, surrendering to police at night. His back is to the camera. Visual concept for Michigan arrest.

What To Do If You Get Arrested in Michigan

Being arrested can be a daunting and confusing experience. In an instant, your freedom, your reputation, and your future may feel uncertain. Regardless of whether you believe the arrest was justified, what you do in the moments after being arrested c… Read More
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A police car at night alongside a road with emergency lights flashing. Visual concept for a legal blog discussing Felony vs. misdemeanor in Michigan law.

Felony vs. Misdemeanor In Michigan Law

When someone is charged with a crime, one of the first questions they ask is whether the crime is considered a felony or a misdemeanor. This distinction can significantly impact a person’s life. While felony and misdemeanor crimes both involve brea… Read More
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Blurry image of fast moving cars in a snowstorm. Visual concept for a blog discussing Hit and Run Defense.

Hit and Run Defense: Leaving the scene of an accident in Michigan.

When a driver leaves the scene of an accident, it is often a split-second decision made in the heat of the moment. Nonetheless, this decision can result in severe, long-term consequences, including substantial fines, potential jail time, and signific… Read More
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