Navigating DUI Cases at the 15th District Court in Ann Arbor: Insights on Judges Valvo and Perry's Role

​What to Expect from Judges Valvo and Perry in DUI Cases at the 15th District Court in Ann Arbor

If you have been charged with a DUI in Ann Arbor, Michigan, you may be wondering what to expect from the legal process and how judges at the 15th District Court handle DUI cases. The 15th District Court is located in downtown Ann Arbor and serves the city and several surrounding townships. The court handles a variety of cases, including traffic offenses, misdemeanors, and civil disputes. Judges in DUI cases play a critical role in the legal process and have several responsibilities and duties.

At the 15th District Court in Ann Arbor, two judges, Honorable J. Cedric Simpson Valvo and Honorable Joseph A. Perry, preside over DUI cases and are committed to upholding the law, protecting the rights of defendants, and promoting public safety. They understand the serious nature of DUI offenses and the impact they can have on individuals, families, and communities. They also recognize the importance of providing defendants with fair and just treatment, and encouraging them to take responsibility for their actions and seek rehabilitation and support.

Here are some of the things to expect from Judges Valvo and Perry in DUI cases at the 15th District Court:

Arraignment: The first court appearance in a DUI case is the arraignment, where the judge will read the charges against the defendant, advise them of their rights, and set bail or release conditions. The judge will also schedule future court dates, such as pretrial conferences and trials.

Pretrial conferences: The judge will hold pretrial conferences with the prosecutor and the defense attorney to discuss the case, review evidence, and negotiate plea deals. The judge may also set deadlines for discovery and other procedures.

Motions hearings: The judge will hear arguments from the prosecutor and the defense attorney on various motions, such as suppression of evidence, dismissal of charges, or change of venue. The judge will make rulings on these motions based on the law and the facts of the case.

Trial: If the case goes to trial, the judge will oversee the proceedings, including jury selection, opening statements, presentation of evidence, and closing arguments. The judge will also instruct the jury on the law and guide them in reaching a verdict.

Sentencing: If the defendant is convicted or pleads guilty, the judge will impose a sentence, which may include jail time, fines, probation, community service, counseling, or other penalties. The judge will consider various factors, such as the defendant's criminal history, the severity of the offense, and the impact on the victim and society.

Judges Valvo and Perry understand the importance of providing individualized attention to each defendant and ensuring that their rights are respected throughout the legal process. They also recognize the importance of seeking alternatives to incarceration, such as rehabilitation programs and counseling, when appropriate and beneficial.

If you are facing a DUI charge in Ann Arbor, it's important to work with an experienced DUI attorney who can guide you through the legal process and represent your best interests. Your attorney can also help you prepare for court appearances and hearings, and develop a defense strategy that takes into account the judges' roles and expectations. With the right approach, you can minimize the consequences of a DUI charge and move forward with your life.