51st District Court – DUI & Criminal Defense Guide for Waterford Township, Michigan

If you’ve been charged with drunk driving (OWI) or another misdemeanor offense in Waterford Township, your case will be heard in the 51st District Court. This court handles all misdemeanor criminal cases, preliminary hearings for felonies, and traffic offenses that occur within its jurisdiction.
​
As a defense attorney, I’ve appeared in this court many times. I know that for many people, stepping into a courtroom for the first time is intimidating—especially if it’s because of a drunk driving charge. At my firm, we take a different approach to defense. We focus on empathy, proactive action, and helping you tell your full story—not just the facts of the case.

Where is the 51st District Court?
The 51st District Court is located in Oakland County, Michigan, within Waterford Township. It has jurisdiction over all cases arising within the township’s boundaries.
​
Court Address:
51st District Court
5100 Civic Center Drive
Waterford, MI 48329

Areas Covered by the Court
The court’s jurisdiction includes all of Waterford Township, which is made up of several neighborhoods and communities. While Waterford is not a city with separate incorporated areas, the township includes well-known neighborhoods such as:

• Clintonville
• Drayton Plains
• Four Towns
• Lake Angelus Shores (portions within township boundaries)
• Oakland Heights
• Waterford Village

If your alleged offense occurred anywhere within Waterford Township, it will be handled at the 51st District Court.

As of 2025, the following judges preside over the 51st District Court:

• Hon. Richard D. Kuhn, Jr. – Chief Judge
• Hon. Todd A. Fox – Chief Judge Pro Tempore

Both judges oversee a variety of cases, including Operating While Intoxicated (OWI), Impaired Driving, Super Drunk charges, and other misdemeanor criminal matters.

DUI Cases in the 51st District Court

If you are facing a drunk driving charge here, you may be charged under one of Michigan’s OWI-related offenses:

• OWI – Operating While Intoxicated
• OWVI – Operating While Visibly Impaired
• Super Drunk (BAC .17 or higher)
• OWPD – Operating With Presence of Drugs
• Minor BAC / Zero Tolerance
• Child Endangerment
• OWI 2nd or 3rd Offense (3rd offense is a felony and will be transferred to Oakland County Circuit Court after the preliminary exam)

Our Approach in the 51st District Court

Most clients we meet are good, hardworking people who never thought they’d be in court facing a DUI. They’re often scared, embarrassed, and unsure of what happens next.
We take the time to:

1. Understand Your Story – We want to know how you got here, what’s going on in your life, and what you want for your future.
2. Proactively Address Concerns – This may mean enrolling in alcohol education, substance abuse counseling, or community service before the court orders it.
3. Help You Make a True Impression – Judges and prosecutors notice when a defendant takes ownership and shows growth before sentencing.
4. Build a Strong Legal Strategy – We challenge the evidence, negotiate effectively, and prepare for trial if necessary.

Why Proactive Action Matters

In the 51st District Court, showing the judge that you have taken meaningful steps before your case concludes can make a huge difference. This might mean:

• Completing alcohol education programs
• Seeking counseling or treatment (if applicable)
• Attending a victim impact panel
• Documenting community service
• Creating a personal reflection or apology letter

These steps demonstrate to the court that you are more than just the charge—you’re a person who is committed to growth and change.
​
​Facing a DUI in Waterford Township?
If you are scheduled to appear at the 51st District Court, you don’t have to face it alone. With my background as a former prosecutor and my current work as a defense attorney and client coach, I can help you navigate both the legal process and the personal side of this challenge.