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.


 

Judge

Preparing for Your First Court Appearance

“You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” This is especially true when it comes to your first court appearance. Knowing what to expect can reduce stress and anxiety and is an important part of presenting yourself effectively. He… Read More
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Traffic cop is talking with a driver

Should I Take My Michigan OWI/DUI Case to Trial

Statistically, very few criminal cases go to trial. Most are resolved through plea bargaining. Nonetheless, anyone charged with a crime has the right to take their case to trial where the prosecutor must prove them guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. R… Read More
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Categories: Drunk Driving / OWI
Teenager upset at the world. Visual concept for a criminal defense blog that discusses Michigan's Holmes Youthful Trainee Act.

What is the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (HYTA) in Michigan?

The Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (“HYTA”) is a Michigan law that allows people aged 18 to 26 to avoid a permanent criminal record. When a young person receives HYTA classification and completes HYTA probation, the crimes they were charged with do… Read More
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Categories: Juvenile Justice
Driver with problems of alcohol addiction. Visual concept for a criminal defense blog discussing a Michigan OWI plea bargain.

Understanding Plea Bargaining in a Michigan OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) Case

In Michigan and nationwide, most criminal cases are resolved through plea bargaining. While a defendant can always exercise their right to a trial, plea bargains play an important role in resolving criminal cases. A Michigan OWI Plea Bargain offers d… Read More
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Categories: Drunk Driving / OWI
Picture of policeman, young suspect and female police agent. Visual concept for a criminal defense blog discussing your rights under a Miranda Warning.

Your Rights Under the Miranda Warning

Thanks to movies and TV shows, most people understand that the police must provide a Miranda warning when they arrest a suspect. However, the information contained in these dramas is not entirely accurate. Much more commonly, police question a suspec… Read More
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Truck driving school and candidate training. Visual concept for a DUI/OWI blog discussing issues facing CDL holders with a dui or those seeking their CDL with a past DUI.

Can You Get a Commercial Driver’s License with an OWI/DUI in Michigan?

A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a specialized license that is required for people who wish to operate large vehicles like tractor-trailers, buses, and tanker trucks. Driving these vehicles demands a higher level of skill and responsibility d… Read More
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Categories: Drunk Driving / OWI
Adult male in dark clothes with hood picks door lock, and looks into house. Visual concept for a criminal law blog discussing second degree home invasion.

Understanding Second-Degree Home Invasion Charges in Michigan

In Michigan, the crime of home invasion replaced the common law crime of burglary. Michigan recognizes three levels, or degrees, of home invasion. Second-degree home invasion occurs when a person breaks into the dwelling of another, intending to comm… Read More
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One drunk man sitting at bar counter, holding car keys. Visual concept for a criminal law blog discussing the effect of a dui/owi on employment.

How Will a Michigan OWI/ DUI Affect My Employment?

A Michigan OWI / DWI is a serious charge that can carry severe penalties. In addition to fines, possible jail time, and a driver’s license suspension, a drunk driving charge can have far-reaching, adverse consequences. You face harm to your reputat… Read More
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Categories: Drunk Driving / OWI
Car jacking at night visual concept for a criminal defense blog discussing first degree robbery charges.

Understanding First-Degree Robbery Charges in Michigan

Many people confuse the crimes of robbery and theft. In Michigan, robbery is a separate criminal charge that involves the threat or use of physical force. Charges of robbery are serious, and the penalties are severe. If you were charged with robbery… Read More
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Murderer back on the crime scene

Manslaughter: Accidental Death with Criminal Implications

Involuntary manslaughter is a serious crime that occurs when someone unintentionally causes the death of another person through their reckless or criminally negligent actions. A conviction for involuntary manslaughter carries a sentence of 15 years i… Read More
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Categories: Murder