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.


 

Male driver chased by police. He is thinking can the police search my vehicle without a warrant?

Can the Police Search My Vehicle Without a Warrant?

There are some circumstances in which police can lawfully search your car without a warrant. However, during most traffic stops, the police must ask for your permission before searching your vehicle. If you do not give them permission and there are n… Read More
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pleading guilty

Do I Need a Lawyer Even If I am Pleading Guilty?

When facing criminal charges, many people wonder whether hiring a lawyer is worth the time and expense, especially if they plan on pleading guilty. Some people think they should just enter a guilty plea, take their punishment, and move on with their… Read More
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juvenile tried as adult

Juvenile Tried as An Adult in Michigan

In Michigan, if you are 17 years of age or older and are charged with a crime, you will be tried as an adult. If you are under age 17, you will be charged as a juvenile, unless the charges are very serious. Children under the age of 14 are rarely cha… Read More
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simple assault charges

What is Simple Assault, and What Are the Penalties?

Assault is one of the least understood and most misused words in the American language. When people hear the word assault, they often think of a brutal beating. But in Michigan, the crime of simple assault occurs when someone attempts to cause physic… Read More
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Categories: Assault
Police Lineups

Police Lineups and Eyewitness Identifications

Eyewitness testimony is powerful evidence. Because eyewitness testimony can be so influential, courts have established strict guidelines that must be followed when police conduct a lineup to identify a suspect and when prosecutors seek to admit eyewi… Read More
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Categories: Police
social media and the courts

Does Social Media Negatively Impact My Criminal Case?

If you are facing criminal charges or think you were involved in potentially illegal activity, you may be tempted to post about your exploits, ask friends for advice, or discuss updates in your case online or on your social media platforms. Don’t.… Read More
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hunting and fishing

Are DNR Hunting and Fishing Violations Criminal Offenses?

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is responsible for maintaining and protecting natural resources such as state parks, forests, and recreation areas. Their jurisdiction includes enforcing hunting and fishing violations. Violations of… Read More
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revoked license

Appeal a Revoked License After a Michigan DUI/OWI

A driver’s license revocation is different from a driver’s license suspension. A driver’s license suspension occurs after all Michigan DUI/OWI charges. You can apply for limited driving privileges and will be issued a temporary driver’s licen… Read More
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Categories: Drunk Driving / OWI
Expunge of criminal record. Expungement written on a document.

Michigan Clean Slate Law

Michigan’s clean slate law expands eligibility for expungement of your criminal record and creates a new process that will automatically seal certain records for non-violent offenders. The Michigan clean slate law is a combination of several differ… Read More
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Domestic Violence 1

Defenses to Charges of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence charges are a serious criminal matter. And if you have been charged with domestic violence, there is a good chance that you are facing other criminal charges, as well. In addition, allegations of domestic violence are often accompan… Read More
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Categories: Domestic Violence