Charged with DUI Menominee County - 95A District Court Drunk Driving Bond Conditions

​Navigating Bond Conditions in DUI Cases: A Comprehensive Guide for 95A District Court - Menominee County

​Dealing with a drunk driving charge is a stressful and complex process, even more so when you're unfamiliar with the intricacies of the legal system. This guide aims to provide some clarity for those facing such charges in the 95A District Court in Menominee County, Michigan, where Honorable Robert Jamo presides.

Pre-Arraignment vs Post-Arraignment
In my legal practice, clients dealing with drunk driving charges typically fall into one of two categories: pre-arraignment or post-arraignment. The arraignment is a defendant's first formal appearance in court, where charges are read, and a plea is entered.

For clients who have not yet been arraigned, I often put proactive measures in place, anticipating what Judge Jamo might order as bond conditions. This approach allows us to appear proactive and responsible when we eventually stand before the judge. For clients already arraigned, we discuss strictly adhering to the bond conditions already set and frequently consider additional proactive measures.

Risk Assessment and Bond Conditions
In the 95A District Court, when Judge Jamo sets bond in a drunk driving case, he is required by law to assess the risk of flight and the potential risk of harm to the public. While most DUI defendants are not typically flight risks, there is a risk of them consuming alcohol or drugs while out on bond and potentially re-offending.

To address these concerns, bond conditions often require the defendant to refrain from drug or alcohol use. Regular testing for these substances helps reassure the court of the defendant's compliance. When flight risk is low, such measures can support the decision to grant a personal or nominal bond.

Determining Appropriate Bond
When deciding on the appropriate bond, Judge Jamo will consider a variety of factors. These include:

The defendant's prior criminal record
The defendant's record of appearance or non-appearance at court proceedings
The defendant's history of substance abuse or addiction
The defendant's mental condition, character, and reputation for dangerousness
The seriousness of the offense charged, and the likelihood of conviction and likely sentence
The defendant's employment status and financial history
The availability of responsible community members who can vouch for the defendant
The defendant's ties to the community, including family ties and relationships, and length of residence
Any other factors bearing on the risk of non-appearance or danger to the public
Alcohol Testing: The Primary Bond Condition
In my experience, the primary bond condition in drunk driving cases in Menominee County is alcohol testing. If alcohol testing has not already been ordered by Judge Jamo, I typically advise my clients to initiate their own proactive alcohol testing. This shows commitment to sobriety and creates a favorable impression on the court. It's crucial to choose a testing method that doesn't disrupt the defendant's life outside the courthouse.

For clients who wish to avoid the standard court-ordered testing due to their schedules or professional commitments, we often set up alternative testing methods. These alternatives meet, if not exceed, the court's requirements while accommodating the defendant's schedule. The following methods are currently available for alcohol testing:

Preliminary breath tests (PBTs): These are the most common and least expensive. The defendant appears at a testing facility to provide a breath sample, as per the judge's order.

Transdermal alcohol tethers: These devices can monitor alcohol consumption around the clock, testing the perspiration on the skin. They offer convenience to the defendant and a comprehensive monitoring solution for the judge.

In-home Breathalyzers: These devices plug into a regular wall socket and come equipped with a camera to verify the user's identity. Some advanced models constantly transmit results via cellular connectivity, eliminating the need for data downloads.

Ignition interlock devices: Installed in a vehicle, these devices require a breath test before the vehicle can be started, adding an additional layer of safety.

Ethyl glucuronide (EtG) or Ethyl sulfate (EtS) alcohol testing: These tests measure alcohol metabolites in urine and can detect alcohol consumption for up to 72 hours prior to the test. They are especially useful for those with irregular schedules or who need to travel as part of their work.

Facing a DUI charge in the 95A District Court in Menominee County can be a daunting experience, but understanding and proactively managing bond conditions can make a significant difference in the proceedings. As a legal professional, my goal is to support my clients through this process and ensure they are prepared and proactive at each stage of their case under Judge Robert Jamo.