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.


 

A black man with hands outside the bars of a prison cell, concept for Alternatives to jail sentence or prison sentencing.

Alternatives to Jail and Prison

For most people who have been charged with a crime, avoiding a jail sentence and prison time is a primary concern. Fortunately, the Michigan legislature has passed laws that allow someone convicted of a crime to avoid jail time. Elmen Legal will work… Read More
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man rolling marijuana in a vehicle concept for Drugged Driving (Marijuana and Prescription Drugs)

Drugged Driving in Michigan (Marijuana and Prescription Drugs)

Even though Michigan has legalized marijuana for recreational use, drugged driving is still a crime. The crime of Operating Under the Influence of Drugs (OUID), commonly referred to as impaired driving or drugged driving, is treated similarly to an O… Read More
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Categories: Drunk Driving / OWI
Man with a variety of everyday carry (edc) items; a gun, notes, pocket knife, and flashlight - Concept for Gun Carry Laws.

Gun Carry Laws: What Is the Difference Between a “CCW” and a “CPL” In Michigan?

The Second Amendment protects a person’s right to bear arms, and many Michigan residents proudly exercise these rights. They own guns for hunting, target shooting, and personal protection. But Michigan residents can run into trouble when they carry… Read More
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Taking fingerprints of person charged with a crime.

How Long Does the State Have to File Charges Against You?

The criminal process can be confusing, especially if you have never been charged with a crime before. While every situation is unique, most criminal cases follow a similar process that leads from investigation to charges being filed and, ultimately,… Read More
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Policeman and man with handcuffs in hospital concept for Can The Police Access My Private Medical Or Hospital Records Following a DUI / OWI Arrest?

Can The Police Access My Private Medical Information Following a DUI / OWI Arrest?

Your medical history contains intimate details about your life. In most instances, medical records, conversations between a doctor and a patient, and other medical information remain strictly private: the patient decides whether or not to share priva… Read More
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Categories: Drunk Driving / OWI
Lawyer and client shake hands over gavel and lady justice. Concept for Michigan Sentencing Guidelines.

Michigan Sentencing Guidelines

Enacted in 1998, the Michigan Sentencing Guidelines were intended to make sentencing more uniform across the state by providing judges with minimum sentencing recommendations. The guidelines gather the factors a judge should consider when sentencing… Read More
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Statuette of lady justice on the table close-up against the background of the handshake of a woman and a man

Top 10 Things You Should Know Before Hiring A Criminal Defense Attorney In Michigan

Facing Michigan criminal charges can be scary. It can be difficult to know where to turn for advice. Depending on the nature and severity of the charges, you could face jail time, substantial fines, loss of your driver’s license, and more. In addit… Read More
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Court document issuing a restraining order.

Fighting a Restraining Order in Michigan

A restraining order, which in Michigan is technically known as a Personal Protection Order (PPO), is put in place to protect victims of domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. The PPO prevents people accused of domestic violence from taking… Read More
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Categories: Domestic Violence
When the worst struggle is a silent one. Concept of What Can I Do if I was Accused of Domestic Violence? - Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

What Can I Do if I was Accused of Domestic Violence?

Under Michigan law, domestic violence is an assault or an assault and battery against someone with whom you have or had a domestic relationship. This includes a spouse, former spouse, someone you are dating or used to date, a person with whom you sha… Read More
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Categories: Domestic Violence
Stressed and tired woman at the wheel in her car worried she is getting a DUI/OWI Charge.

Defenses to DUI/OWI Charges

Michigan DUI/OWI charges carry harsh penalties, including fines, jail time, and suspension of your driver’s license. To defend against Michigan DUI charges, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. When you work with Elmen Le… Read More
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Categories: Drunk Driving / OWI