Charged DUI Sanilac County - 73A District Court Drunk Driving Arrest - OWI Attorney

​Navigating DUI Cases in the 73A District Court of Sanilac County

​# Navigating DUI Cases in the 73A District Court of Sanilac County

Sanilac County's scenic beauty, home to cities like Brown City, Croswell, Marlette, and Sandusky, also houses the revered 73A District Court. The court, under the astute leadership of Honorable Gregory S. Ross, the Probate/District Judge, plays an integral role in the administration of justice within the county. Among the diverse range of cases that the court adjudicates, DUI (Driving Under the Influence) cases hold a distinct position, given the gravity of the offense and its ramifications on public safety.

## **Initial Touchpoints: Understanding the Client’s Position**

The initial interaction with any client charged with a DUI in the 73A District Court revolves around understanding their status—whether they are pre-arraignment or post-arraignment. This crucial distinction significantly shapes the legal strategy.

For clients who are yet to face arraignment, adopting a preemptive approach can often stand them in good stead. By voluntarily instituting certain bond conditions, aligned with what the court might anticipate, clients can showcase their commitment to the legal process and community well-being. Conversely, if a client has been through the arraignment, the priority shifts to adherence to set bond conditions, with the addition of proactive steps wherever feasible.

## **Bond Decision-making in Sanilac County**

Michigan law stipulates that, for DUI cases, bond decisions should consider both the defendant's flight risk and the possible risk to public safety. At the 73A District Court, while DUI defendants typically aren’t seen as high flight risks, concerns around future consumption of alcohol or drugs while on bond are real.

Addressing this, the court often mandates conditions on the bond that stress abstinence from substances. By doing so, the court aims to ensure community safety. Generally, many DUI defendants in the 73A District Court receive either a personal bond or a bond condition that demands a 10% payment on a larger amount, factoring in their perceived low flight risk.

Bond-setting often contemplates:

- Historical criminal records, including juvenile offenses.
- Prior tendencies of attending or skipping court sessions.
- History related to substance abuse or addiction.
- Mental health status, character assessments, and any potential threat posed.
- The seriousness of the offense, related threats, and the probable verdict and sentencing.
- Employment records, financial status, and the ability to post bond.
- Presence of trustworthy community members willing to vouch for or oversee the defendant.
- Established local connections, assessed through family ties, relationships, and duration of stay in the county.
- Any other relevant factors that might influence risk assessment.

## **Alcohol Testing in the 73A District Court**

In the 73A District Court, regular alcohol testing often becomes a primary bond condition for DUI cases. Voluntary alcohol testing, even prior to a court mandate, serves as a clear indication of a commitment to sobriety and responsibility. 

Several methods, such as preliminary breath tests (PBTs), transdermal alcohol tethers, in-home breathalyzers, ignition interlock devices, and specialized EtG or EtS alcohol testing are available. The court, in its commitment to justice and flexibility, often allows for alternative testing methods suited to individual needs.

## **In Summary**

Sanilac County's 73A District Court, under the watchful guidance of Honorable Gregory S. Ross, epitomizes justice with a human touch. For those navigating DUI cases within this jurisdiction, understanding the court's approach and demonstrating a commitment to sobriety and responsibility can pave the way for a fair hearing.