Berrien County DUI Arrest & Defense Report: Understanding the Legal System & Your Defense Options

My Approach to Defending DUI Cases in Berrien County

​Being charged with a drunk driving offense can be overwhelming. The fear, uncertainty, and potential consequences can feel like too much to handle. That’s why my approach is centered on clarity, strategy, and advocacy—because your defense is not just about the law, it’s about your life, your career, and your future.

Berrien County DUI Analysis

Total DUI Cases: 517

• Breath Tests: 52 (10.06%)
• Blood Tests: 362 (70.02%)
• Refusals: 103 (19.92%)

Top 5 Arresting Agencies in Berrien County

1. Sheriff’s Office (SO BERRIEN CO): 141 arrests
2. PD St. Joseph DPS: 69 arrests
3. PD Benton Township: 41 arrests
4. PD Benton Harbor: 28 arrests
5. MSP Niles: 91 arrests

Court & Judges in Berrien County

DUI cases in Berrien County are handled at the 5th District Court, located in St. Joseph and Niles, Michigan.
Presiding Judges:

• Honorable Arthur J. Cotter – District Judge
• Honorable Gordon Gary Hosbein – District Judge
• Honorable Mabel Johnson Mayfield – Chief Judge
• Honorable Gary J. Bruce – District Judge
• Honorable Paul S. Jancha, Jr. – District Judge
• Honorable Sherri C. Frame – District Judge

My Approach to Defending DUI Cases in Berrien County
Being charged with a drunk driving offense can be overwhelming. The fear, uncertainty, and potential consequences can feel like too much to handle. That’s why my approach is centered on clarity, strategy, and advocacy—because your defense is not just about the law, it’s about your life, your career, and your future.

As the author of The Michigan DUI Playbook, I provide a comprehensive, results-driven defense designed to minimize the impact of a DUI charge. Here’s how:

✔ Understanding Your Situation: Every client’s case is different. I take the time to listen, evaluate your circumstances, and create a personalized strategy tailored to your needs.
✔ Challenging the Evidence: DUI cases often rely on breath and blood tests, but these can be inaccurate or improperly administered. I scrutinize the evidence to find potential errors or weaknesses in the case against you.
✔ Minimizing Consequences: A conviction can affect your driver’s license, employment, and personal reputation. I explore legal options such as alternative sentencing and plea negotiations to reduce penalties.
✔ Building a Strong Defense: Whether negotiating with prosecutors or fighting in court, I use my extensive legal experience to advocate aggressively for your best outcome.
✔ Providing Support & Guidance: Legal battles are stressful, but you don’t have to face them alone. I ensure that you’re informed, supported, and confident throughout the process.


📞 Call Me: 248-924-9458
📧 Email Me: [email protected]

Court Locations:

📍 Berrien County Courthouse
811 Port St., St. Joseph, MI 49085
📞 (269) 983-7111

📍 1205 North Front St., Niles, MI 49120
📞 (269) 684-5274

Common DUI Charges in Michigan

If charged with a DUI in Berrien County, you may face:

• Operating While Intoxicated (OWI)
• Impaired Driving
• Super Drunk (BAC ≥ 0.17)
• Operating With Presence of Drugs
• Minor BAC Zero Tolerance (Under 21)
• Child Endangerment DUI
• OWI 2nd Offense (Misdemeanor)
• OWI 3rd Offense (Felony)