35th District Court Drunk Driving Cases
If you've been charged with drunk driving in Plymouth, Canton, or Northville, your case will be heard in the 35th District Court at 660 Plymouth Road, Plymouth, MI 48170. This court handles DUI cases from multiple affluent communities including:
- City of Plymouth
- Canton Township
- Plymouth Township
- City of Northville
- Northville Township
The 35th District Court serves some of Michigan's most affluent and rapidly growing communities. DUI and drunk driving cases in these jurisdictions often involve professionals, business owners, and residents with significant community standing, making experienced legal defense crucial.
Current 35th District Court Judges
The court is served by three respected judges: Hon. Joseph Barone, Hon. Michael J. Gerou, and Hon. James A. Plakas. Each brings unique perspectives to DUI cases, and Attorney William Maze has extensive experience practicing before all three judges in Plymouth drunk driving cases.
Michigan DUI Penalties - 35th District Court Sentencing Guide
Understanding the potential consequences of a drunk driving conviction in Plymouth court is essential for making informed decisions about your defense strategy.
Super Drunk (.17+ BAC) Charges in Plymouth 35th District Court
Super Drunk charges in Michigan refer to operating while intoxicated with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.17% or higher. This enhanced DUI charge carries significantly increased penalties compared to standard OWI charges and is aggressively prosecuted in Plymouth, Canton, and Northville courts.
Immediate Consequences for First Offense Super Drunk in Plymouth:
- Misdemeanor conviction on your criminal record. A first offense may qualify to be set aside after five years, but it stays on your Secretary of State driving record.
- Up to 180 days in jail (Judge discretion in 35th District Court)
- Fines: $200-$700 + $1,000+ court costs and fees
- 45-day hard license suspension (no driving at all)
Long-Term Consequences:
- 1-year mandatory alcohol rehabilitation program
- 320 days with ignition interlock device required
- 6 points on Michigan driver's license
- Up to 360 hours community service
- Probation of up to 2 years, commonly with random drug and alcohol testing
- Possible vehicle immobilization
Defense Strategy for Super Drunk Cases
As an experienced Plymouth DUI defense attorney, I challenge Super Drunk cases through multiple avenues: challenging the breath test calibration and maintenance records, questioning the 15-minute observation period, examining radio frequency interference that could affect test results, and exploring medical conditions (like diabetes or GERD) that could produce false high BAC readings. Each Canton, Plymouth, and Northville jurisdiction has different prosecutors with varying approaches to these defenses.
OWI - Operating While Intoxicated Charges in Plymouth
Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) is Michigan's standard drunk driving charge for drivers with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. In Plymouth 35th District Court, these DUI cases are prosecuted aggressively, particularly in Canton and Northville where enforcement is heightened along major corridors like I-275 and M-14.
First Offense OWI Penalties in 35th District Court:
Immediate Consequences:
- Misdemeanor conviction on your criminal record. A first offense may qualify to be set aside after five years, but it stays on your Secretary of State driving record.
- Up to 93 days in Plymouth jail
- Fines of $100 to $500 + $1,000+ in court costs and assessments
- 30-day hard license suspension (no driving privileges)
- Community service up to 360 hours
Additional Long-Term Consequences:
- 150 days restricted license (work, school, treatment only)
- 6 points on Michigan driver's license
- Probation of up to 2 years, commonly with random drug and alcohol testing
- Possible vehicle immobilization at judge's discretion
- Travel restrictions to Canada and other countries
35th District Court OWI Defense Approaches
Successful OWI defense in Plymouth requires understanding each judge's tendencies and each jurisdiction's prosecutors. Judge Barone values detailed legal arguments, Judge Gerou considers rehabilitation efforts, and Judge Plakas focuses on community impact. I tailor defense strategies accordingly, challenging improper traffic stops, field sobriety test administration errors, and breath test protocol violations specific to each Plymouth, Canton, and Northville case.
Repeat DUI Offense Penalties in Plymouth 35th District Court
Repeat DUI offenses in Michigan carry dramatically increased penalties, especially when they occur within 7 years of a prior conviction. The 35th District Court takes repeat drunk driving offenses seriously, particularly for cases involving accidents or high-risk behavior.
Enhanced Penalties for Repeat Offenders in Plymouth
Second and third offenses carry mandatory sanctions that judges in 35th District Court must impose: a second offense within 7 years requires jail, community service, or both, and a third offense is a felony. A jail term for these offenses may not be suspended unless the defendant successfully completes a specialty court program (MCL 257.625(9)(d)). However, skilled defense can still achieve favorable outcomes through alternative sentencing programs like Sobriety Court or strategic negotiations with Plymouth, Canton, and Northville prosecutors.
Second DUI Offense (Within 7 Years):
- Jail of 5 days to 1 year, community service of 30 to 90 days, or both. The court must impose at least one of these (MCL 257.625(9)(b))
- License revocation: at least 1 year before you may seek reinstatement, or 5 years if you had another revocation within the prior 7 years (MCL 257.303). No restricted license from the Secretary of State, although DWI/sobriety court interlock participants may qualify for one (MCL 600.1084)
- Vehicle immobilization for 90-180 days
- Fines $200-$1,000 plus costs
- 30 to 90 days of community service (instead of, or in addition to, jail)
- Mandatory substance abuse assessment
- Possible alcohol tether (SCRAM) requirement
Third DUI Offense (Felony Charge):
- FELONY CONVICTION (permanent record)
- Either 1 to 5 years in prison, or probation with 30 days to 1 year in jail plus 60 to 180 days of community service (MCL 257.625(9)(c))
- License revocation: at least 1 year before you may seek reinstatement, or at least 5 years if you had another revocation within the prior 7 years (MCL 257.303(4))
- Vehicle forfeiture possible
- Fines $500-$5,000
- 60 to 180 days of community service (with the probation alternative)
- Possible habitual-offender sentence enhancement if you have prior felony convictions (MCL 769.10–769.12)
- Travel restrictions to Canada: an impaired-driving conviction can make a person inadmissible until Canadian authorities approve relief
Why You Need Expert 35th District Court DUI Defense
These penalties are severe and life-altering. Attorney William Maze has successfully defended hundreds of DUI cases in Plymouth court, achieving dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable outcomes through meticulous case analysis and aggressive defense strategies specific to Canton, Plymouth, and Northville jurisdictions.
Current 35th District Court Judges
Having practiced before all Plymouth judges for over 25 years, Attorney William Maze understands each judge's approach to DUI cases:
Hon. Joseph Barone
Zoom ID: Available via Court
Recently elected to the bench in 2024 with nearly 30 years of private practice experience. Former criminal defense attorney with balanced perspective. Known for thorough consideration of legal arguments in Canton, Plymouth, and Northville DUI cases.
Hon. Michael J. Gerou
Zoom ID: Available via Court
Experienced jurist with more than 16 years of private practice before taking the bench. Known for fairness in evidentiary rulings and consideration of rehabilitation in sentencing. Respects well-prepared legal arguments in drunk driving cases.
Hon. James A. Plakas
Zoom ID: Available via Court
Served on the bench since 2008 with background as both prosecutor and defense attorney. Practical approach to case management with consideration of community impact. Known for clear expectations in sentencing and probation terms for DUI offenses.
Police agencies that make drunk driving arrests in Plymouth, Canton & Northville
Drunk driving cases in the 35th District Court usually begin with one of these agencies:
- Canton Public Safety Department (1150 S Canton Center Rd, Canton, MI 48188; 734-394-5400)
- Plymouth Township Police Department (9955 N Haggerty Rd, Plymouth, MI 48170; 734-354-3232)
- Plymouth Police Department (201 S Main St, Plymouth, MI 48170; 734-453-1234; Al Cox, Director of Public Safety / Chief)
- Northville Township Department of Public Safety (41600 W Six Mile Rd, Northville, MI 48168; 248-349-9400; Scott Hilden, Director / Chief)
- Northville Police Department (215 W Main St, Northville, MI 48167; 248-349-5100; Alan M. Maciag, Chief of Police)
Of the agencies that report separately, the Canton Public Safety Department reported the most driving-under-the-influence offenses in 2022 (368, with 320 arrests), down 8% from 401 in 2021.
| Agency | 2022 offenses | 2021 offenses | Change | Arrests (2022) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canton Public Safety Department | 368 | 401 | -8% | 320 |
| Plymouth Township Police Department | 127 | 99 | +28% | 118 |
| Plymouth Police Department | 33 | 33 | +0% | 32 |
| Northville Township Department of Public Safety | 43 | 34 | +26% | 35 |
| Northville Police Department | 12 | 14 | -14% | 11 |
Michigan State Police troopers also patrol the freeways and state highways in the area; a trooper’s arrest goes to the district court where the stop occurred. The figures come from Michigan’s incident-based crime reporting for the offense category “driving under the influence” (2022 compared with 2021), as compiled by Maze Legal; an offense is a reported violation and an arrest is a person taken into custody. Department addresses, phone numbers, and leadership were reviewed on September 27, 2026 and change often. The agency that made the arrest matters: its policies for roadside testing, video recording, and breath-test administration are the first records a defense lawyer requests.
35th District Court Prosecutors - Complete Directory
The 35th District Court features multiple prosecuting attorneys representing different jurisdictions. Understanding which prosecutor handles your case is crucial for effective defense strategy.
Important Legal Advice
Do not contact prosecutors directly! All communication should go through your attorney. Statements made to prosecutors can be used against you. Attorney William Maze maintains professional relationships with all Plymouth, Canton, and Northville prosecutors while aggressively protecting client interests.
City of Plymouth Prosecutor
Cameron A. Miller (P42279)
Miller & Calabrese PC
248 S Union St
Plymouth, MI 48170-2288
Phone: (734) 455-1230
e-Mail: cam@millercalabrese.com
Canton, Northville, and Plymouth Township local prosecutor
Gregory D. Demopoulos (P41622)
Demopoulos Law PLLC
217 Ann Arbor Rd W, Ste 212
Plymouth, MI 48170-2245
Phone: (734) 453-7877
Fax: (734) 453-1108
Email: demoplaw@gmail.com
City of Northville Prosecutor
Anne Gabbert (P51154)
Giarmarco, Mullins & Horton, P.C.
101 West Big Beaver Road
Troy, Michigan 48084‑5280
Phone: (248) 457-7053
e-Mail: agabbert@gmhlaw.com
Drug & Alcohol Testing in 35th District Court
If placed on probation for a DUI conviction in Plymouth, you will be subject to random chemical testing through the court's probation department. This is standard for all drunk driving cases in Canton, Northville, and Plymouth Township:
Breath Testing (PBT)
Portable breath tests administered during probation appointments. Never arrive after consuming alcohol! Plymouth court strictly enfaces this requirement.
Urine Testing (EtG)
Detects alcohol metabolites (EtG/EtS), generally for about one to three days after drinking, depending on the amount consumed and the laboratory cutoff; hair testing can look back much longer. Incidental exposure to alcohol in products such as hand sanitizer and mouthwash can produce low-level positive results. Common in 35th District Court probation.
SCRAM Tether
Continuous transdermal alcohol monitoring. Required for some repeat offenders or high-risk cases in Plymouth drunk driving cases.
35th District Court Sobriety Court Program
Alternative Sentencing Option
The 35th District Court offers a Sobriety Court program for repeat DUI offenders with substance abuse issues. This intensive program focuses on rehabilitation and can provide important opportunities for those facing multiple drunk driving charges in Plymouth, Canton, or Northville.
The 35th District Court Sobriety Court is an intensive program designed to address substance abuse issues while holding participants accountable. This specialized docket combines judicial supervision with treatment and support services specifically for Plymouth area DUI offenders:
- Voluntary Program: Participants must agree to enter the program
- Intensive Monitoring: Regular court appearances and supervision
- Treatment Focus: Individual and group counseling sessions
- Regular Testing: Frequent drug and alcohol screening
- Support Services: Assistance with employment, education, and life skills
- Graduated Approach: Four-phase program based on progress
- Sanctions & Incentives: Clear consequences for violations and rewards for compliance
Important Benefits: Successful completion of the Sobriety Court program can result in reduced jail time, avoidance of felony charges for some repeat offenders, and opportunities for rehabilitation. This program represents an alternative to traditional sentencing that focuses on addressing underlying substance abuse issues common in drunk driving cases.
Eligibility & Referral
Sobriety Court is typically available to repeat DUI offenders with demonstrated substance abuse issues. Referrals can come from defense attorneys, prosecutors, or probation officers. As an experienced Plymouth DUI defense attorney, I can evaluate whether Sobriety Court is an appropriate option for your case and advocate for your admission to the program.
Program Information
For specific questions about Sobriety Court eligibility and procedures, contact the 35th District Court Probation Department at (734) 459-4770 or consult with your attorney.
DUI Defense Strategies for 35th District Court
Attorney William Maze employs comprehensive defense strategies tailored to Plymouth, Canton, and Northville DUI cases:
Legal Defenses
- Illegal Stop: Challenging lack of reasonable suspicion for traffic stop
- Field Sobriety Test Errors: Police procedure violations in test administration
- Breath Test Issues: Machine calibration/maintenance problems
- Blood Test Problems: Chain of custody and analysis errors
- Rising BAC Defense: Alcohol absorption timing issues
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes, GERD, or other conditions affecting tests
Technical Defenses
- Breath Test Protocol: Certified operator requirements and procedures
- Observation Period Violations: 15-minute continuous observation requirement
- Radio Frequency Interference: Affecting breath test accuracy
- Mouth Alcohol: Recent drinking, dental work, or reflux issues
- Improper Arrest Procedures: Miranda rights violations or improper arrest
- Witness Credibility: Challenging police officer testimony and observations
Proven Track Record in 35th District Court
Attorney Maze's extensive training and experience have resulted in numerous successful outcomes including dismissals, reduced charges, and not guilty verdicts in Plymouth, Canton, and Northville DUI cases. His certification in field sobriety testing and breath test operation provides unique insights for challenging prosecution evidence in 35th District Court drunk driving cases.
Understanding 35th District Court Drunk Driving Cases
If you are charged with a DUI offense in the City of Plymouth, Canton Township, Plymouth Township, City of Northville, or Northville Township, then your case will be heard in the 35th District Court in Plymouth, Michigan. This court handles all misdemeanor drunk driving cases, including OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), Super Drunk (.17+ BAC), and OWVI (Operating While Visibly Impaired) charges.
The 35th District Court is known for its efficient case management and modern facilities at 660 Plymouth Road, Plymouth, MI 48170. The court serves some of Michigan's most affluent communities, and DUI cases here often involve professionals, business owners, and residents with significant community standing. This makes experienced legal defense particularly important for protecting your reputation and future.
Prosecution in 35th District Court
Although Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy and assistant prosecuting attorneys have jurisdiction over drunk driving cases in the Plymouth district court, most DUI cases in the 35th District Court are prosecuted by local jurisdictions using private attorneys who work under contract with each city or township. This means:
- City of Plymouth: Cases prosecuted by Miller & Bartnicki PC
- Canton & Plymouth Township: Cases prosecuted by Hemming Polaczyk firm
- City of Northville: Cases prosecuted by Plunkett Cooney
- Northville Township: Cases prosecuted by Hemming Polaczyk firm
- State Police & Sheriff Cases: Typically handled by Wayne County Prosecutor's Office
Each jurisdiction has different prosecutors with varying negotiation policies and approaches to DUI cases. Attorney William Maze has extensive experience with all these prosecutors and understands how to navigate each jurisdiction effectively.
Why Choose William Maze for Your Plymouth DUI Defense?
William Maze represents people charged with drunk driving in Plymouth. Mr. Maze has practiced law since 1997 and is a past president of the Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan. His specific qualifications include:
- Certified in standardized field sobriety tests
- Teaches other lawyers how to defend DUI cases
- Trained on BAC Datamaster breath testing device
- Extensive toxicology training in blood and urine testing
- Court qualified as DUI defense expert witness
- Owns two Datamaster devices and PBTs for case analysis
- Hundreds of hours of specialized DUI defense training
- Extensive experience with all 35th District Court judges
William has handled numerous Plymouth DUI cases and routinely appears before the judges of the 35th District Court, successfully representing clients through motions and jury trials that have resulted in favorable rulings. His understanding of the specific nuances of Canton, Plymouth, and Northville DUI cases provides a significant advantage in defense strategy.
Free 35th District Court DUI Case Evaluation
Facing drunk driving charges in Plymouth, Canton, or Northville? Get legal guidance from Attorney William Maze, who has defended hundreds of DUI cases in 35th District Court.
How to reach us
Submit your case details below or call (734) 941-8800 for 24/7 emergency legal assistance. Consultations are confidential.
Why Choose William Maze for Plymouth DUI?
- Practicing law since 1997
- Court-qualified expert witness (SFST and breath testing)
- Plymouth & Canton DUI Defense
- Jury Trial Success Record
- Breath Test Operator Training
- SFST Certification (2005)
- Member, National College for DUI Defense (since 2004)
- Experience with All Plymouth Judges
- Knowledge of All Local Prosecutors
Serving Plymouth Area
37211 Goddard Rd
Romulus, MI 48174
Conveniently located for Plymouth, Canton, and Northville clients
William Maze - Plymouth DUI Defense Attorney | 35th District Court Specialist
35th District Court Location
Court Information
35th District Court
660 Plymouth Road
Plymouth, MI 48170
Hours:
Monday-Friday
8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Directions:
Located where Haggerty Road splits at Plymouth Road. Accessible from I-275 via Ann Arbor Road exit or Six Mile Road exit. Large parking lot but often crowded on busy mornings.
Court and case resources
Sources for the legal and scientific statements on this page
Penalty, license, set-aside, and testing information on this page was reviewed against these sources in September 2026. Court staffing, prosecutor assignments, and contact details change; confirm them with the court before relying on them.
- MCL 257.625 (operating while intoxicated; penalties)
- MCL 257.303 (license revocation; minimum periods before reinstatement)
- MCL 780.621c (setting aside a first-offense OWI conviction; effective February 19, 2022)
- Michigan Department of Attorney General, "First Time Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) Offenses"
- MCL 600.1084 (DWI/sobriety court interlock program; restricted license)
- Office of the Governor, press release on 2018 PA 43–50 eliminating driver responsibility fees (March 1, 2018)
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Advisory: The Role of Biomarkers in the Treatment of Alcohol Use Disorders, 2012 Revision (vol. 11, no. 2)
- Reisfield GM, Goldberger BA, Crews BO, et al. Ethyl glucuronide, ethyl sulfate, and ethanol in urine after sustained exposure to an ethanol-based hand sanitizer. J Anal Toxicol. 2011;35(2):85–91