Frequently Asked Questions

Criminal Law FAQs:

How long have you been practicing criminal law?

I have been practicing criminal law in the Ann Arbor Metro-Detroit area for over 15 years.

What are the first things you do for a client after they’ve been arrested?

If the client is currently incarcerated, I will visit the client in jail as soon as possible. By visiting them so quickly I can inform them of what’s occurring regarding their case and I can get vital information from them regarding their case. We can also then formulate a plan as to how to move forward. For example, this can include contacting family members to post the client’s bail. It can also include plans for what to say and do when we enter court if the client remains incarcerated.

How do you handle interactions with prosecutors and law enforcement?

Since I have been practicing in the Ann Arbor and Metro-Detroit area for so long I am very familiar with the local prosecutors and law enforcement officers. I have a long standing, professional rapport with them. This being said they know how I operate as well. I have a reputation for taking cases to trial, filing extra motions, and pushing hard to get every piece of discovery quickly. I’m not afraid to inform the judge if a prosecutor is not respecting my clients legal rights in a criminal case.   

How do you investigate a case beyond what’s in the police report?

Investigating a case involves much more than just reading the police report. A lot of times going to the scene of the crime is appropriate to grasp a full understanding of what took place. For instance, if there is a traffic violation going to the specific intersection may be helpful. Also considering other factors of the case like the weather and time. Was it raining when the accident occurred? Was it late evening when the sun was setting that someone’s vision could have been impaired? In addition, we at ArborYpsi Law, always follow up with the witnesses in person or over the phone. Someone’s testimony in a police report may need clarification and sometimes their testimony can change.

What do you do if you find police misconduct or errors?

Finding police misconduct or errors in a case is extremely advantageous to the client.We will fill a motion notifying the court of the misconduct and move to dismiss the case. If there is a loop hole, to get a case dismissed, we will find it.  

What factors do you consider in advising a client whether to take a plea bargain or go to trial?

We weigh the pros and cons of going to trial or taking a plea deal. We always support our client’s choice and rely on my 15 years of experience to make the best decision. We are not afraid or intimidated by a trial. Sometimes taking the plea deal is a much better option and less risky than going to a trial. There are also situations where no plea bargain is being offered and the prosecution is not offering any help. In that instance we have no choice but to go to trial.

How do you prepare a client for interviews with law enforcement or testimony in court?

In order to properly prepare a client for court we schedule a lot of meetings and practice what to say and how to say it. The procedure of how the case will move along in court is explained in detail, so the client is sufficiently prepared. We would never advise a client to talk to an officer even with an attorney present. We as the attorney would speak to the officer for the client.

How do you support a client during this stressful process?

Going through a criminal case is extremely stressful. In order to give a client the most support transparency and clear explanations are of critical importance. For example, clearly explaining the charges brought against them, walking them through the court process, and preparing them for the possible outcomes.

Do you handle post-conviction issues like sentencing or appeals?

We will be present for our clients at their sentencing hearings. We do complete appellate work at ArborYpsi Law.

Can you help me clear my record if my case is successfully resolved?

There are some plea deals in which no charge goes on your record. If there was a previous criminal conviction that goes on your record you could be eligible for an expungement after a certain amount of time has passed. 

What are some of the most memorable acquittals or dismissals that you’ve secured?

Some of the most memorable aquittals are not-guilty verdicts via jury trial. We have had several Assault and Batteries with Not Guilty at Jury Trial verdicts. We recently had a Title IX case at the University of Michigan. The charge was two allegations of sexual assault and the client was found not responsible. Another client was charged with 3 counts of Felonious Assault and was found Not Guilty at Jury Trial. Please go to my results page at arborypsilaw.com to see a complete list of our victories.

Do you handle cases in both federal court and state court?

At ArborYpsi Law we handle cases at the state level. We do not handle federal cases.

How are your fees structured, and do you offer flexible payment options for clients with limited resources?

We offer flat rate fees which means we will not bill you per hour. Instead, the flat rate fee will include all work on your case up until a certain point. Most of the time the flat rate includes all work up until trial. If the case is to go to trial, there is an additional expense. Through Clio payments we offer a pay-later option.

DUI & DWI FAQs:

How long have you handled DUI cases?

I have handled DUIs/OWIs/DWIs in the Ann Arbor/Metro Detroit area for over 15 years.

How much of your practice is dedicated to DUI defense?

About 20% of our business is dedicated to DUI defense. We defend clients against all criminal charges including felonies, misdemeanors, criminal sexual conduct charges, traffic tickets, domestic violence, drug crimes and Title IX cases.

How many DUI cases have you handled in this jurisdiction?

I have handled up to 200 DUIs/OWIs/DWIs in the Ann Arbor/Metro-Detroit area.

What is your experience in taking DUI cases to trial? What are some of your most notable successes in DUI cases?

We have had many DUI cases dismissed before going to jury trial. We have also had lots of DUIs plead down to charges such as reckless driving.  

How do you investigate a DUI case?

Investigating a DUIinvolves obtaining discovery and communicating with the prosecutor’s office. The discovery can include body camera footage, police reports, and witness testimony. We thoroughly review all documents and elements of the case to get the case dismissed. We can challenge cases by seeing if the blood alcohol contents were obtained lawfully.We also go above and beyond by filing freedom of information act (FOIA) request.The FOIA is obtaining all documents related to the case from the police.

What are some defense strategies that you often employ in DUI cases?

Some defense strategies we use to fight DUI cases are finding ways to get the case dismissed. Was the traffic stop a lawful traffic stop? Was the BAC obtained lawfully?How was the BAC obtained? Was the BAC obtained by a trained employee? Are the BAC results accurate?  

What is your approach to plea negotiations, and what is your philosophy on whether to take a deal or go to trial?

Taking a DUI/OWI to trial involves weighing the risks and benefits. Often going to trial means all other options have been exacerbated. Going to trial involves much more risk than taking a set plea deal. A plea deal is straight forward and you know what you’re going to get. A trial can result in all charges being dismissed but it can also result in a much more serious penalty such as jail time.  

How do you prepare clients to testify at trial?

We prepare clients for a DUI/OWI trial by practice, practice, practice. This involves having the clients come in for meetings and explaining what will occur during a DUI/OWI trial. We review what questions may be asked and how to answer set questions.

Can you handle both the criminal case and the administrative process?

Yes, we at ArborYpsi law are very experienced with fighting criminal charges in open court and working behind the scenes in all courts administratively. This includes filing motions, keeping up with deadlines and scheduling court appearances. We also appear before the secretary of state on driver’s license issues. We can and will protect your driver’s license at all costs.

What is your experience with DUI cases that involve additional charges?

Each additional DUI/OWI charge exponentially increases your chances of jail time. Blood Alcohol Content that is above 0.17 will be charged with Super Drunk Driving.DUIs that result in death or serious injury of another individual are felonies and can result in prison time. Additional charges that often come with DUIs include resisting arrest and possession of a firearm. At ArborYpsi Law we have 15 years of experience fighting DUIs with additional charges. We will get you the best result.

Do you work with forensic analysts or other scientific experts?

Yes, in the past we have worked with forensic analysists and scientific experts. Is it possible the way a technician obtained a BAC could have affected the results? Is it possible that other prescription drugs could have led an officer to suspecting a client of a DUI? Was a BAC specimen handled correctly after it was obtained? Could this have affected the results?

What is your fee structure, and do you offer flexible payment plans?

We offer flat rate pricing. In the event that a client needs to pay in installments we offer pay-later in which a client can pay in installments.

What are some additional costs that a DUI case might involve?

The cost of a DUI case will go up if we retain an expert or private investigator. In addition, if the case is brought to trial this is an additional expense.

What can someone arrested for DUI do to help their case?

If necessary, we recommend that a client seek treatment options following a DUI charge. This is advantageous to the client because it shows the court that the client is being proactive with addressing the situation.

Traffic Tickets FAQs

How long have you been handling traffic ticket cases?

We have been handling traffic tickets for 15 years at ArborYpsi Law. We take pride in our customer service and traffic ticket case results. Please look at our results page at arborypsilaw.com.  

What percentage of your practice is dedicated to traffic violations?

About 20% of our cases at ArborYpsi law are traffic violations. Traffic ticket violations can include reckless driving, driving on a suspended license, DUI, spilled load, and overweight tickets.

How do you investigate traffic cases?

In order to properly investigate traffic tickets we obtain all discovery from the case. This includes reviewing body camera footage and police reports. Going to the scene of the violation can also play a crucial part. Also considering environmental factors like time of day, rain, snow, and fog are parts of the investigation.  

What are some strategies that you’ve used to help drivers beat tickets?

At ArborYpsi Law we have been fighting traffic tickets for 15 years. With that in mind we have developed relationships with prosecutors in the Ann Arbor and Metro-Detroit area. We know how to get a deal and we know when to push harder to get an even better deal for our clients.

What factors do you consider when advising a driver on whether to take a plea deal or settlement versus going to trial?

We always honor the client’s decision on whether they want to take a plea deal or go to trial. With that in mind, we advise the client of their options and possible outcomes.

How do you prepare clients for traffic court?

A lot of times for a traffic ticket the client does not need to be present. We, at ArborYpsi Law, will enter an appearance on their behalf and represent them in court. We will then call them with the results. If a client needs to be present for traffic court, we prepare them by explaining the court process beforehand. This way they are prepared for what to expect and what to say or not say when in front of the judge.

What are some of your best results in traffic cases? What are some complications or challenges that you’ve encountered in traffic cases, and how have you handled them?

We have had so much success getting traffic tickets dismissed at ArborYpsi Law. We frequently get our clients 0 points on their driver license record. This is beneficial for them because then their insurance rates do not go up and it is not reported on their CDL. Please look at our google reviews and results page at arborypsilaw.com to see how happy our clients are with traffic ticket representation.   

What is your fee structure, and do you offer flexible payment plans?

We charge 400 dollars for a standard traffic ticket. Other traffic misdemeanors are more costly. Please call or text us at 734.883.9584 to get a quote.

What additional costs might a client face in addition to your fee?

Paying the traffic ticket violation. Paying for an online driving safety class.

Can you handle criminal matters related to traffic violations, or would you refer those to another attorney?

We most certainly can handle criminal matters that are related to traffic violations. DUIs are often tied to traffic violation charges. Reckless driving and driving on a suspended license are often incurred with traffic violation charges. At ArborYpsi Law we have 15 years of experience fighting charges of traffic violations and criminal matters.

What’s the most important advice that you have for a driver who was just cited, other than to hire a lawyer?

In order, to protect your driving record, it is in your best interest to hire a criminal defense attorney. Traffic violations on your record can result in increased car insurance rates. Traffic violations can also be harmful to those with commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) which can affect your career and employment.

How do you stay up to date on changes in traffic codes or regulations?

At ArborYpsi Law we go to continuing education seminars like MIOWIA to stay up-to-date on traffic codes and regulations. Since we are in court often in many Ann Arbor and Metro-Detroit courts we also are briefed by the prosecutors on new changes and updates to that specific cities traffic laws.

Client Reviews

Sam was a helpful lawyer who is a man of his word. He helped in our cases 2 times in a row with successful outcomes. I could not think of a better lawyer who is always on time to court, good attitude, smart, and honest. He is respectful and answers all of the questions we had. Two cases were both a...

Gigi

It has been a couple of days since Sam represented my son in Washtenaw County. He gave me the miracle I prayed for. He did way more than I thought was possible and as I told him on the phone I would hug him if I could. If you ever need a good lawyer, this guy is the one to hire – and his prices are...

Linda

Sam took my call and consulted me immediately. He provided fair pricing for the legal services I was requiring. I hired him about a week before my case, he still took on the case load and did amazing work. He is an excellent attorney and a friendly person to be in the court room with when you’re in...

Devon

Contact Us

  1. 1 Free Consultation
  2. 2 Available 24/7
  3. 3 15 Years of Experience
Fill out the contact form or call us at (734) 883-9584 to schedule your free consultation.

Leave Us a Message