Common Legal Terms You Should Know Before Going to Court

March 17, 2025

Common Legal Terms You Should Know Before Going to Court


Let’s face it — legal jargon can feel like a foreign language. If you’ve ever sat in a courtroom or spoken with a lawyer and thought, “What does that even mean?”, you’re not alone. Whether you're facing a criminal charge, involved in a family law case, or simply want to better understand how the legal system works, knowing some basic legal terms can help reduce stress and boost your confidence.


At Coppins Law Group, we make it a priority to help our clients feel informed and empowered at every stage of their case. So, let’s break down some of the most commonly used legal terms and what they really mean — in plain English.


Arraignment

This is typically your first court appearance after being charged with a crime. During your arraignment, the judge will tell you what you’re being charged with, remind you of your rights, and ask you to enter a plea — usually “guilty,” “not guilty,” or “no contest.” It’s also when the court decides on your bond and whether you’ll remain in custody or be released.


Appeal

If you believe the court made a mistake in your case — whether it was during trial, sentencing, or even a legal ruling — you may have the right to appeal. An appeal asks a higher court to review the decision and potentially change the outcome. It's not a second trial, but a legal argument about what went wrong the first time.


Affidavit

An affidavit is a written statement of facts that a person swears is true. It’s signed under oath and often used as evidence in court when someone can’t appear in person.


Bail and Bond

Bail is the amount of money set by the court to make sure you come back for your future hearings. If you pay the full amount, that’s bail. If you use a bonding company to pay a portion of it, you’ve posted a bond. Either way, the goal is the same: you get released from jail while your case is pending.


Bench Warrant

If you miss a court date or fail to follow a judge’s order, the court may issue a bench warrant for your arrest. It allows law enforcement to take you into custody and bring you before the judge.


Citation

A citation is another word for a ticket. It’s a written notice from law enforcement that you've allegedly broken a law — like a traffic offense — and that you're expected to appear in court or pay a fine.


Civil Infraction

A civil infraction is a non-criminal offense, like speeding or a parking violation. It usually results in a fine but won’t go on your criminal record or lead to jail time.


Complainant

This is the person who initiates the legal action or complaint — in criminal cases, this is typically the victim or the one who reported the alleged crime.


Defendant

The defendant is the person who has been accused of a crime or named in a legal proceeding. If you’re facing charges, you're the defendant.


Convict

To convict someone means they have been found guilty of the charge(s) against them, either by pleading guilty or being found guilty at trial.


Controlled Substances Act

This refers to the body of laws that regulate the possession, use, and distribution of drugs. In Michigan, this includes everything from marijuana to prescription pills and more serious substances.


Contempt of Court

If someone disobeys a judge's order, causes disruptions, or refuses to cooperate with the court, they can be held in contempt. This can result in fines or jail time — it’s essentially a punishment for disrespecting the legal process.


Cobbs Plea

This is a Michigan-specific plea deal where the judge agrees to a sentence range before the defendant officially pleads guilty. If the judge later decides to impose a harsher sentence, the defendant can withdraw the plea. It gives defendants some protection and predictability when accepting a deal.


Deferred Judgment of Guilt

In some cases, the court may delay entering a judgment of guilt. Instead, the person is given conditions to meet — like probation, treatment, or community service. If completed successfully, the case might be dismissed, and the conviction won’t go on their record.


Adjournment

An adjournment simply means the court date has been pushed back. It could be for any number of reasons — the judge’s schedule, more time needed to prepare the case, or at the request of one of the parties.


Bind Over

This term comes up during a preliminary exam in felony cases. If the judge decides there's enough evidence, they’ll “bind over” the case to the circuit court for trial. It’s a signal that the case is moving forward in the legal process.


Circuit Court Misdemeanor

While most misdemeanors are handled in district court, some that carry more than a year of jail time can go to circuit court. These are more serious misdemeanors and are treated similarly to felonies in terms of process.


Community Supervision or Probation

Instead of sending someone to jail, the court may place them on probation. This means the person must follow certain conditions like drug testing, curfews, or counseling. If they violate those terms, they could be sent to jail.


Probation Order Amendments

Sometimes, the terms of probation need to be updated. That could mean adding a treatment program, allowing someone to move, or changing reporting requirements. These amendments must be approved by the court.


Client Information Release Authorization

If you’re working with a counselor or social worker while on probation, you may be asked to sign this form. It gives permission for your probation officer to speak with your treatment provider — to make sure you're staying on track.


Criminal Tracking Number (CTN)

Every criminal case in Michigan is assigned a CTN — a unique number that helps track the case throughout the system. It’s like your case’s fingerprint.


Computerized Criminal History (CCH)

This is a statewide system that stores criminal history records. Law enforcement and courts use it to see prior offenses, probation status, and other relevant history.


Crime Victim’s Rights Act

This Michigan law ensures that victims of crimes have a voice. It gives them the right to be informed, present, and heard during key parts of the criminal justice process, like sentencing or parole hearings.


Contested vs. Uncontested Hearings

In a contested hearing, the two sides disagree and present arguments to a judge. In an uncontested hearing, they’ve reached an agreement or the issue isn’t being challenged.


Disposition

This term refers to how the case ends — whether through dismissal, guilty plea, not guilty verdict, or other resolution.


Expungement

If you’ve completed your sentence and meet certain eligibility requirements, you may be able to get your criminal record wiped clean. This is called expungement, and it can help with finding work or housing in the future.


Final Thoughts

Understanding legal terms is an important part of feeling in control during what may be a stressful time. The court process can be confusing, but it doesn't have to be. At Coppins Law Group, we believe that clear communication is key. That’s why we take the time to explain every part of your case in straightforward terms — and why we offer resources like this to help you feel prepared and informed.



If you're facing a legal situation and unsure what something means, don’t hesitate to ask. There's no such thing as a silly question when your freedom, record, or family is on the line. We’re here to help you make sense of it all — and fight for the best possible outcome.

Legal Support You Can Count On Across Macomb County

March 25, 2025
Legal Support You Can Count On Across Macomb County When life takes an unexpected turn and legal help becomes necessary, you want more than just an attorney — you want someone who listens, fights for you, and truly understands the community you live in. At Coppins Law Group, PLLC, that’s exactly what we provide: reliable, compassionate legal representation for individuals and families throughout Macomb County and the surrounding areas. We don’t just show up in court. We show up for you. Here’s a breakdown of the services we offer, along with the communities we proudly serve. Criminal Defense That Puts You First Facing a criminal charge can feel like the world is against you. But it doesn’t have to be. At Coppins Law Group, we protect your rights, your record, and your future by offering smart, experienced legal defense for a variety of criminal cases. We handle cases such as: Assault and battery Drug charges Weapons offenses White-collar crimes like fraud or embezzlement Internet sex crimes Misdemeanors and felonies Probation violations Expungement petitions We know how prosecutors think, and we’re ready to challenge evidence, question procedures, and fight for a fair outcome — whether that means dismissal, reduction of charges, or winning at trial. OWI/DUI Defense You Can Trust An Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charge can impact your license, your job, and even your freedom. Many people don’t realize how serious these charges are until it’s too late — but with the right attorney, there’s a path forward. Whether it’s your first offense or you’ve been through the process before, we know how to: Challenge traffic stops and field sobriety tests Investigate breathalyzer and blood test accuracy Represent you at license hearings Negotiate alternative sentencing Limit long-term consequences Don’t wait until your court date is around the corner — getting legal help early is the best way to protect your driving privileges and reputation. Family Law Representation with Respect and Compassion When it comes to family, legal issues can be emotional and complicated. Our role is to bring clarity, calm, and solutions that truly work for your family’s future. We take the time to understand what matters most to you and help you move forward with confidence. Our family law services include: Divorce Child custody and parenting time Child support Modifications to existing court orders Representation in domestic disputes Legal support for common-law marriage and property division You don’t have to go through this alone. We’ll help you protect what’s important and advocate for the outcome you deserve. Administrative Hearings and License Restoration Legal challenges don’t always start in a courtroom. If you’ve lost your driver’s license or are facing an administrative hearing that could impact your livelihood, we’re here to represent your interests and help you get your life back on track. We represent clients in: Driver’s license restoration hearings Unemployment benefit disputes Security clearance issues Probation-related administrative matters These hearings can have serious consequences, especially if handled without legal guidance. We prepare thoroughly and present a strong case on your behalf. Where We Serve: All Across Macomb County We’re proud to call Macomb County home, and we’ve built strong relationships throughout the area. If you live or work in any of the following communities, Coppins Law Group is here for you: Armada Center Line Chesterfield Clinton Township Eastpointe Fraser Harrison Township Macomb County Mount Clemens New Baltimore New Haven Romeo Roseville Shelby Charter Township St. Clair Shores Sterling Heights Utica Warren We know the local courts. We know the judges. We know the people — and we know how to get things done for our clients. Why Clients Choose Coppins Law Group When you work with us, you’ll always know where your case stands. You’ll work directly with your attorney, not get passed around a large firm. We explain things clearly, answer your questions quickly, and make sure you’re prepared for every step of the process. We believe that no one should feel lost or powerless in the legal system. Whether you're facing criminal charges, going through a family change, or trying to restore your license, we’re in your corner from start to finish. Take the First Step Today If you're dealing with a legal issue in Macomb County, don't wait to get the help you need. The sooner we get involved, the more options we’ll have to protect your rights and secure the best outcome possible. At Coppins Law Group, we’re not just legal professionals — we’re advocates for the people who make this community strong. Reach out today and let us know how we can help.

What to Do If You're Facing a DUI in Macomb County: A Guide to Protecting Your Future

March 5, 2025
What to Do If You're Facing a DUI in Macomb County: A Guide to Protecting Your Future  Getting pulled over and charged with a DUI—or OWI as it’s often called in Michigan—isn’t just stressful. It’s scary. One moment you’re on your way home, and the next, you’re facing flashing lights, field sobriety tests, and a whole world of uncertainty. What happens next? Will you lose your license? Your job? Your freedom? First things first: take a breath. You’re not alone, and your future isn’t set in stone. Coppins Law Group, based in Macomb County, Michigan, helps clients just like you navigate the legal system and protect what matters most. This blog will walk you through what a DUI means in Michigan, what penalties you could face, and how the right attorney can help guide you through the chaos. In Michigan, DUI and OWI are legal terms used for the same basic offense: operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) is the technical charge, while DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is the more commonly used phrase. Whether it’s alcohol, prescription medication, or another substance, getting behind the wheel while impaired can result in serious legal consequences. And those consequences can follow you long after your court date. If you're over the age of 21 and your blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, you can be charged with OWI. If your BAC is 0.17% or higher, you may be charged under Michigan’s “Super Drunk” law, which comes with much harsher penalties. If you’re under 21, the threshold is only 0.02%, thanks to Michigan’s zero-tolerance law for underage drivers. So what exactly can happen if you’re convicted? For a first-offense OWI with a BAC under 0.17%, you’re looking at up to 93 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, community service for up to 360 hours, a 30-day license suspension followed by 150 days of restricted driving, and six points added to your driving record. Not to mention potential court costs, license reinstatement fees, and higher insurance rates. If your BAC was 0.17% or higher—under the Super Drunk classification—you face up to 180 days in jail, a fine up to $700, mandatory alcohol treatment, a 45-day license suspension, and a full year of restricted driving with a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) installed in your vehicle. Now let’s say this isn’t your first time. A second offense within seven years of your first comes with much steeper consequences. Jail time ranges from 5 days to 1 year, fines can reach $1,000, and you may be required to perform 30 to 90 days of community service. More importantly, your license will be revoked—not just suspended—for a minimum of one year, and you’ll be required to attend alcohol education or rehabilitation. Your vehicle may be immobilized for up to 180 days, and your license plate could be confiscated. A third offense? That’s a felony in Michigan. You could face 1 to 5 years in prison, fines up to $5,000, 60 to 180 days of community service, and a license revocation for at least one year. Your car might be immobilized or forfeited, and a felony conviction can permanently alter your ability to get certain jobs, housing, or loans. Beyond the legal consequences, there’s a real human cost. Your job could be at risk, especially if it involves driving. Your car insurance premiums are likely to skyrocket—or you might be dropped altogether. Friends, family, and coworkers may judge you unfairly. The stress alone can take a toll on your health and relationships. This is why hiring a qualified DUI attorney is so critical. Having someone in your corner who understands the law and how the Macomb County courts operate can be the difference between a conviction and a case dismissed—or at least reduced. At Coppins Law Group, clients get more than just a defense strategy—they get a partner who’s committed to protecting their future. There are several common defense strategies a skilled DUI lawyer can explore depending on the details of your arrest. For instance, was the traffic stop legal? Police must have a valid reason—called probable cause—for pulling you over. If they didn’t, any evidence gathered after that could be inadmissible in court. Field sobriety tests are another common area of challenge. These tests are notoriously unreliable and can be impacted by weather conditions, the driver’s physical health, or even uneven pavement. If you have a medical condition or were just nervous, your performance could be misunderstood. Then there’s the breathalyzer. These devices must be calibrated regularly, and officers must be properly trained to use them. If the device was malfunctioning or used incorrectly, your BAC reading may be inaccurate. Blood tests must also follow strict procedures. Any error in collection, labeling, storage, or testing can cast doubt on the results. Another potential defense is the rising BAC argument. Alcohol takes time to be absorbed into your bloodstream. You may have had a drink shortly before being pulled over, and your BAC could have continued to rise between the time you were stopped and the time you were tested. In addition to challenging the evidence, your attorney can represent you at the administrative hearing with the Michigan Secretary of State. This hearing determines whether your license will be suspended or revoked outside of the criminal case. Losing your license—even temporarily—can disrupt your entire life. A good attorney can advocate for restricted driving privileges or fight the suspension entirely. The legal process after a DUI arrest can move quickly. You’ll have an arraignment, possibly a pre-trial hearing, and in some cases, a trial. Plea negotiations, sentencing guidelines, and court procedures are complex and often intimidating. But you don’t have to go through it alone. At Coppins Law Group, every client gets individualized attention. The firm’s founder, Shawn J. Coppins, has years of experience representing clients throughout Southeast Michigan. He understands how Macomb County judges and prosecutors operate, and he uses that knowledge to craft strong, strategic defenses. You won’t be shuffled between lawyers or ignored. When you hire Coppins Law Group, you work directly with your attorney. You get your questions answered in plain English. You’re informed, supported, and guided every step of the way. There’s also something to be said for working with a local attorney who knows the community. This isn’t some massive firm where you’re just a case number. You’re a person with a life, responsibilities, and a future that matters. That’s how Coppins Law Group treats every client—from your first phone call to your final court appearance. If you’re feeling the pressure of a recent arrest, you’re probably wondering what to do next. First, don’t ignore it. The sooner you contact an attorney, the more time they’ll have to build a strong defense and preserve critical evidence. Witnesses forget. Records disappear. Delays can hurt your case. Second, be honest with your attorney. They’re not here to judge you—they’re here to help you. Every detail matters, even the ones you might be embarrassed to share. The more your lawyer knows, the better they can protect you. Third, prepare for the road ahead. While no one can promise an outcome, having a smart, aggressive defense gives you the best shot at minimizing the damage. Sometimes that means getting charges reduced. Sometimes it means avoiding jail time through alternative sentencing like probation, rehab, or community service. And sometimes, it means getting your case dismissed entirely. The bottom line? A DUI charge doesn’t have to define you. With the right help, you can get through this and move forward with your life. If you or someone you care about has been charged with DUI or OWI in Macomb County, don’t wait. Contact a trusted legal team like Coppins Law Group. They’ve helped countless people just like you get back on track—and they’re ready to do the same for you.