Drunk Driving Charges at the 48th District Court: Understanding Why Good People Make Bad Choices

The 48th District Court, serving the Cities of Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Sylvan Lake, Keego Harbor, and Orchard Lake Village, as well as the Townships of Bloomfield and West Bloomfield, is often a place where individuals face their first interaction with the criminal justice system.

Presided over by Honorable Kimberly F. Small, Honorable Marc Barron, and Honorable Diane D'Agostini (Chief Judge), the court handles numerous cases related to drunk driving cases.  DUI cases in this court are handled by all three judges. 

For many first-time offenders, this experience is deeply unsettling, as it contrasts sharply with their otherwise law-abiding lives.

If you’ve been charged with drunk driving in this jurisdiction, it’s important to understand that this one mistake does not define you. Good people can make bad choices, and this moment can be an opportunity to learn, grow, and take steps to ensure it doesn’t happen again.

Why Good People Make Bad Choices: The Criminology of Drunk Driving

Drunk driving often stems from a combination of psychological, social, and situational factors rather than a deliberate intent to break the law. By exploring these influences, we can better understand the behavior and focus on how to move forward with accountability and growth.


1. Rational Choice Theory

This theory explains that individuals weigh the risks and rewards of their actions before deciding to act. However, in cases of drunk driving, impaired judgment often skews this process.

• Example: A professional attending a social event in Bloomfield Hills has a couple of drinks and believes they’re still capable of driving safely. They rationalize, “I only had two glasses of wine, and it’s just a short drive home.”

2. Behavioral Economics

Cognitive biases, such as overconfidence and present bias, often lead to irrational decision-making in the moment.

• Example: Someone enjoying a night out in Birmingham decides to drive home, prioritizing the immediate convenience of sleeping in their own bed over the long-term consequences of getting pulled over or causing harm.

3. Self-Control Theory

Alcohol consumption lowers self-control, making it harder for individuals to adhere to their usual values and decision-making processes.

• Example: After celebrating with friends at a gathering in West Bloomfield, an individual impulsively decides to drive home, thinking, “I’ve done this before and been fine.” This temporary lapse in judgment contradicts their usual behavior.

4. Neutralization Theory

Many people justify their actions by downplaying the risks or harm involved, allowing them to reconcile the act with their self-image.

• Example: “I’m just driving a few blocks to my home in Orchard Lake Village. It’s late, and the roads are empty.” These justifications allow the individual to push past internal moral checks in the moment.

5. General Strain Theory

Stress or emotional strain can drive individuals to make poor decisions as a way to cope or regain control.

• Example: A resident of Keego Harbor dealing with workplace stress has a few drinks to unwind and then drives home, believing it will help them reset for the next day.

Situational Influences on Drunk Driving

In addition to personal decision-making, situational factors often contribute to drunk driving:

• Lack of Planning: Failing to arrange for alternative transportation before drinking.
• Social Pressures: Being encouraged by peers to drive despite having had alcohol.
• Convenience Over Safety: Choosing to drive home rather than leave the car overnight or wait for a rideshare.

This Case Does Not Define You

For many first-time offenders, a drunk driving charge is a wake-up call—a pivotal moment that prompts reflection and change. The 48th District Court, under the guidance of Judges Small, Barron, and D’Agostini, provides an opportunity to address the legal consequences while also focusing on personal growth.

The Path to Understanding and GrowthDrunk driving charges often represent a momentary lapse in judgment rather than a reflection of one’s character. By understanding the underlying causes of the behavior, individuals can use this experience as an opportunity for positive change.

1. Understanding the "Why"

Reflecting on the factors that led to the charge—whether stress, social pressures, or impaired judgment—can provide clarity and insight.

2. Proactive Measures

Taking steps such as arranging transportation, setting boundaries, or seeking support can prevent similar mistakes in the future.

3. Rebuilding Trust

Demonstrating accountability and a commitment to change can help rebuild trust with family, friends, and the community.

Moving Forward with Support and Empathy

​Facing a drunk driving charge can be overwhelming, but it’s not the end of your story. This experience can serve as a turning point, allowing you to learn from the mistake and emerge stronger. With the right legal representation, you can navigate the complexities of your case while also focusing on personal growth.

If you’re facing charges in the 48th District Court, I’m here to help you better understand your case, explore your options, and work toward a positive outcome. Together, we can ensure this moment becomes an opportunity for meaningful change rather than a defining event in your life.