DUI Charge Presque Isle County - Rogers City - Onaway - Drunk Driving 89th District Court

​Addressing DUI Cases in the 89th District Court, Presque Isle County

​The 89th District Court of Presque Isle County, Michigan, under the judicious oversight of the Honorable Erik J. Stone, Probate/District Judge, and Honorable Maria I. Barton, Chief Judge, exercises thoughtful diligence in handling a myriad of cases, including DUI offenses. An in-depth understanding of this court's specific norms and anticipations regarding drunk driving cases is vital in representing clients effectively.

In the 89th District Court, as in other Michigan courts, clients charged with drunk driving typically fall into one of two categories: pre-arraignment or post-arraignment. Each type requires a different legal strategy.

For pre-arraignment clients, who have been arrested but not yet formally charged, a proactive approach is essential. We often put our own bond conditions in place ahead of the arraignment, mirroring what Judges Stone or Barton may order. This preemptive action not only demonstrates preparedness but also garners a favorable impression in the court.

For post-arraignment clients who have been formally charged, our approach emphasizes the adherence to court-ordered bond conditions and usually includes additional proactive steps. This effort illustrates our commitment to meeting the court's expectations and mitigating potential risks.

When setting bond in a drunk driving case, Michigan law obligates the arraigning magistrate or judge to consider the risk of flight and the potential risk to the public. Although most DUI defendants don't pose a significant flight risk, the possibility of consuming alcohol or drugs while on bond and re-offending is a serious concern for the court.

Therefore, the bond conditions usually stipulated by the 89th District Court require defendants to abstain from drugs or alcohol. Compliance with these conditions is regularly monitored. Assuming a low risk of flight, most defendants can expect a personal bond or a reasonable 10 percent provision on a larger amount.

The factors that Judges Stone and Barton typically consider when setting bond include:

The defendant's prior criminal record, including juvenile offenses
The defendant's record of attendance or absence at court proceedings or flight to avoid prosecution
The defendant's history of substance abuse or addiction
The defendant's mental condition and reputation for dangerousness
The severity of the offense charged, the presence or absence of threats, and the likelihood of conviction and the expected sentence
The defendant's employment status, financial history, and their relevance to the ability to post bail
The availability of responsible community members who could vouch for or monitor the defendant
The defendant's community ties, including family relationships and the length of residence
Any other facts relevant to the risk of non-appearance or danger to the public
In my experience with the 89th District Court, alcohol testing is a central bond condition for DUI cases. If testing hasn't been ordered, I often recommend that my clients voluntarily engage in alcohol testing. This move demonstrates their commitment to sobriety and respect for the court's objectives. Additionally, I guide them on the most suitable testing method, taking their lifestyle and convenience into account.

Some clients, particularly those in professional fields, prefer alternatives to standard court-ordered testing. In such instances, we can organize for other testing methods that better align with their schedules while still meeting the court's objective of ensuring sobriety. These methods can include preliminary breath tests (PBTs), transdermal alcohol tethers, in-home breathalyzers, ignition interlock devices, and EtG or EtS alcohol testing.

In summary, the effective management of DUI cases in the 89th District Court of Presque Isle County requires a proactive strategy, respect for the court's expectations, and a commitment to ensuring the defendant's sobriety and compliance with bond conditions.