Michigan Alcohol and Drug Testing Drunk Driving Bond Conditions Set By The Judge

When charged with drunk driving in Michigan, the judge will set certain bond conditions, which will most likely involve alcohol and drug testing.  Although innocent until proven guilty, there was probable cause to believe you were indeed drunk driving, and the judge will set testing to make sure you're not drinking or using drugs during your case.  As a proactive DUI attorney, my clients are typically already doing this (in the most convenient manner) before we arrive in court, and we impress the judge will how seriously we're taking the charges.  In my experience, my clients have typically received less testing than the average client in a similar position and court, which has saved my client both time and money.  

For example, if I'm working with one of my many doctors or a traveling businessman, I'll get them started on a portable unit, which will allows some flexibility in testing, including leave the state or country, which is not an option if the client is required to set their alarm clock and run to the testing facility.  I work with busy and successful clients who simply don't have the time to hangout in testing facilities with two-hour waits.  My strategy allows my clients to have independence in their testing, and to successfully comply with the court's order. Testing requirements are always subject to change based upon how the client is doing, and if any tests are missed or positive results.  

Here are some of the common testing methods used by judges in Michigan:

1) Preliminary breath tests commonly called PBTs, which is the most common and least expensive method, but requires the client to set an alarm, show up at a police station on the court's schedule, and blow into the machine.  Judge's may make this testing random or daily.  Police departments typically charge $5 per blow, and this method does not cover drug testing.  The frequency in testing is usually determined by the client's criminal record 

2) Alcohol tethers are devices attached to a client's body, usually the ankle, and the device is worn 24 hours a day during the case.  The tether will test the concentration in your sweat every 30 minutes, and send a signal to the police if alcohol is present.  Expect a knock at the door if this happens, and being sent to jail while your case is pending.  This device is also used if you're subject to house arrest as it has a GPS function as well.  These devices are installed and maintained at the client's expense, but are convenient to the extent that you don't need to go anywhere to test, but depending upon where you go, and what you're wearing could cause a problem if you wish to keep this device a secret.  Judges find this method of testing to be very effective in preventing alcohol consumption, but this method of testing is typically reserved for repeat offenders or client's who fail multiple alcohol tests during their case, and the testing needs to be enhanced

3) In-home units - these devices are favored by my busy clients who need to be caring for patients, flying around the country to close deals and can't afford to miss work or time with their family.  These devices vary in size and shape, but all use a camera to verify identity and test for alcohol.  The devices can be plugged into any outlet or even run on batteries/use of a charger, just like a cellphone. This device allows you to blow into the machine in less time than it takes to brush your teeth before going to work, and the flexibility to fly all over the world while complying with your testing conditions.  I am a strong advocate for this type of testing.  

4)  Ignition interlock units - this is a testing unit installed in your vehicle, which will accomplish the goal of alcohol testing, but will also give a judge peace of mind that in order to start your car, you need to blow without alcohol in your system.  The unit has a camera to capture your photo, but if someone else blows into it to use your car, with alcohol in their system, the judge will typically have a zero tolerance policy and consider that a failed test.  This method requires you to be with your car at all times, which is not always practical.  

5) ETG or ETS alcohol testing - these tests measure the amount of metabolites in your urine, and the results go back as far as 72 hours, meaning if you had a beer three days ago, you're not in the clear.  These tests are most expensive than PBT's, but cheaper than some of the in-home units.  You still need to go somewhere other than your own home or car to test, but they are less frequent (typically 1-2 times per week).  These tests do allow some flexibility in testing as they will capture a three day picture.  Judges will sometimes order these when someone returns from travel, and has not tested in a few days.  ​