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.


 

Handcuffs on fingerprints concept for criminal record.

Will My Employer Find Out About My Criminal Charges?

Criminal charges are “the gift that keeps on giving.” If you’ve been arrested, you may be worried about jail time, paying fines, and a driver’s license suspension. You might also be concerned about losing your job, whether your employer can a… Read More
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handcuffs with drugs on the table close-up, concept of law and drugs

Understanding Michigan Drug Possession Laws

In Michigan, it is not illegal to use drugs. Instead, the law makes it unlawful to possess them. Michigan has strict laws regarding possession of drugs. In many cases, drug possession is a felony, punishable by more than a year in prison and fines of… Read More
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Probation Violation Court Hearing Document

What to Know About Probation Violation in Michigan Criminal and DUI Cases

When someone is charged with a crime, one of the most common punishments is being placed on probation. When a judge places someone on probation, they impose certain conditions, which often include things like no new offenses, no drugs or alcohol, and… Read More
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Wooden judge gavel and handcuffs on us dollars background Concept for post bail.

How to Post Bail in Michigan: 5 Things to Know

If you’re reading this, you might have been arrested, or someone you know is in police custody. When you’re sitting in jail, the first thing on your mind is how to get out. This is usually accomplished by posting bail. Bail is an insurance bond t… Read More
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Close-up hand of female judge: concept for Presumption of Innocence.

What Is the Presumption of Innocence?

The presumption of innocence is a fundamental principle upon which the American criminal legal system is built. It is part of your right to a fair trial and means that anyone accused of a crime is assumed to be innocent until they are proven to be gu… Read More
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Beer bottles at the base of a tree trunk the morning after a party - concept for underage drinking.

Under 21? Underage Drinking in Michigan

Underage drinking poses a prevalent social issue both in Michigan and across the United States. It is not uncommon for young individuals, driven by curiosity and peer pressure, to engage in alcohol experimentation during their teenage years. From par… Read More
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Cropped view of a young man being handcuffed. Concept for Understanding Your Right to Remain Silent.

Understanding Your Right to Remain Silent In Michigan

As a criminal defense lawyer, perhaps the best piece of advice I can give a prospective client is: don’t talk to the police. If you ever find yourself being questioned by law enforcement officers, you should politely but firmly tell them that you a… Read More
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CDL Commercial Driver Inside of His Truck. Concept for: OWI Conviction With a Commercial Drivers’ License (CDL)

OWI Conviction With a Commercial Drivers’ License (CDL)

Drivers who hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are held to higher standards than other people on the road. This is particularly apparent when it comes to drunk driving charges. As a professional driver charged with a Michigan OWI, you face se… Read More
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Court of Law and Justice Criminal Trial Session: Judge striking Gavel. Focus on Mallet, Hammer.

Understanding Your Criminal Case - What To Expect in a Criminal Trial

After a suspect is arrested, the court will schedule the arraignment and other pre-trial hearings. During these hearings, your lawyer will try to negotiate a favorable plea bargain or even outright dismissal of your case. If the prosecutor is unwilli… Read More
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Woman in handcuffs, close-up of hands. concept for Understanding Your Criminal Case - Arrest and Pre-Trial Procedure

Understanding Your Criminal Case (Part 1) - Arrest and Pre-Trial Procedure

The criminal legal process can be confusing. And if you’ve been charged with a crime, the confusion will only add to your stress. To demystify the criminal legal process, I created this guide to pre-trial criminal procedure, which explains the crim… Read More
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