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.

Will a DUI in Macomb County Affect My License, Job, or Insurance?

June 29, 2025
If you’ve recently been charged with a DUI or OWI in Macomb County or the surrounding Southeast Michigan area, you probably have a lot of questions. One of the first things many people ask is how the charge could affect their driver’s license, their job, or their insurance. Facing an OWI charge is stressful, especially if this is your first time dealing with the legal system. This post walks through some of the possible outcomes and important things to know based on how these cases are typically handled in the local courts. First, a Quick Look at the Terms In Michigan, the term OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) is used more often than DUI, though people tend to use them interchangeably. You may also hear the term OUID (Operating Under the Influence of Drugs), which covers driving while impaired by substances other than alcohol. Whether it’s alcohol, marijuana, or a controlled substance, OWI charges are taken seriously in Macomb County, and local courts move quickly through the process. What Can Happen to Your Driver’s License? License penalties are common after an OWI charge, even before your case is finalized. For example: Implied Consent Violations : If you refuse to take a chemical test after arrest, the Michigan Secretary of State may automatically suspend your license for one year. This is separate from your criminal case. First OWI Conviction : This can lead to up to a 6-month suspension. In some cases, you may be eligible for a restricted license after 30 days. High BAC (.17 or higher) : This can trigger longer suspensions and require the installation of an ignition interlock device if a restricted license is granted. The local courts in Mt. Clemens often follow these guidelines closely, and the Secretary of State processes license penalties independently of the judge’s ruling. It’s important to be aware of both parts of the system. Can a DUI Affect Your Job? It depends on the type of work you do. For some people, an OWI has little or no impact on employment. For others, it can be more serious. Jobs that involve: Driving a company vehicle Holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL) Security clearances State licenses or professional certifications …may be affected by a DUI conviction. Employers in these situations often require notification of criminal charges or conduct background checks as part of ongoing employment. This is especially true in regulated fields like healthcare, education, law enforcement, or government contracting. If your job is unrelated to driving or licensing, your employer might not take any action at all. However, if you have a company policy that requires reporting arrests or convictions, it’s important to be proactive and check what’s required. What About Your Insurance? In most cases, your auto insurance rates will go up after a DUI conviction. Some insurance companies may even choose not to renew your policy. This isn’t something that happens immediately, but once the conviction hits your driving record, insurers may re-evaluate your policy at renewal time. Drivers with an OWI on their record may need to obtain SR-22 insurance , which is a special certification that proves you’re carrying the required amount of liability coverage. Michigan doesn’t require SR-22 in every OWI case, but your insurance provider may. Will This Stay on Your Record? Michigan has recently made changes to its expungement laws. Some first-time OWI offenses may now be eligible for expungement, but only under specific conditions and after a waiting period. Expungement is not automatic and requires a formal process through the court. If you’re thinking about long-term consequences, especially for your driving and criminal record, it’s worth speaking with an attorney to see what your options are. How Macomb County Courts Typically Handle OWI Cases In Macomb County, OWI cases usually start in district court. For residents in Mt. Clemens, that typically means the 41-B District Court. Judges in this court have handled hundreds of these cases, and they are familiar with all the nuances involved. The court process often includes: An arraignment Pre-trial conferences Review of police reports, body cam footage, and breathalyzer or blood test results Possible plea negotiations A sentencing hearing if there is a conviction Every case is different. Some people are eligible for sobriety court programs or other alternatives, depending on the facts of the case and their criminal history. Steps to Take After Being Charged If you’ve been charged with OWI in or around Macomb County: Don’t delay. Court dates often come up quickly. Don’t try to navigate it alone. The consequences of a conviction can follow you for years. Write down everything you remember from the traffic stop and arrest while it’s fresh in your mind. Gather any documents you’ve received and keep them in one place. You don’t have to go through this process without support. Local attorneys who work in the district courts every week understand what to expect and how to guide you through the steps. Need Help Navigating an OWI Charge in Mt. Clemens? Our team at Coppins Law Group has worked with many individuals facing DUI or OWI charges in the Macomb County area. We understand the pressure this puts on your life, and we’re here to help you understand your rights and options at every step. Disclaimer : This blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different, and results can vary depending on the facts and circumstances. For legal guidance specific to your situation, please contact Coppins Law Group directly.

How Child Custody Is Determined in Divorce Cases Around Mt. Clemens and Macomb County

June 18, 2025
If you’re going through a separation or divorce and you have children, it’s likely that child custody is one of your biggest concerns. In the Mt. Clemens and greater Macomb County area, custody decisions are handled by the local family court system. Understanding how judges in this region typically approach custody can help you better prepare for the process ahead. Every case is unique, but here’s what you should know if you're facing a custody matter in this part of Southeast Michigan. What Judges in Macomb County Family Court Look For Courts in Macomb County, just like others in the region, are guided by what’s called the best interest of the child . Judges look at a variety of factors to decide what kind of custody arrangement will support the child’s physical, emotional, and educational well-being. Some of the specific things they might consider include: The emotional ties between the child and each parent Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home The child’s age and needs Any history of abuse or neglect The mental and physical health of all parties involved The willingness of each parent to encourage a relationship between the child and the other parent These are just a few examples. Judges have broad discretion and will look closely at the full picture before making a decision. Types of Custody That May Be Awarded Local courts may award joint custody or sole custody , and they’ll often divide custody into two categories: Legal Custody : This determines who has the authority to make decisions about schooling, medical care, and other major life issues. It’s common for parents to share legal custody unless the court sees a specific reason not to. Physical Custody : This refers to where the child lives most of the time. Some families have a shared parenting time schedule, while others may have one parent with primary custody and the other with scheduled visitation. In Macomb County, parenting time orders are generally detailed. Judges want clear schedules that outline school days, weekends, holidays, and even pick-up and drop-off times to help avoid conflict. What You Should Bring to a Custody Hearing If you’re preparing for a custody hearing in Mt. Clemens or a nearby court, there are a few things that can help your case: A detailed parenting time proposal that shows you’ve thought about the child’s needs Proof of a stable home environment Information about your work schedule and availability Any documentation related to the child’s school or healthcare needs If you have concerns about the other parent, especially regarding safety, substance use, or unstable living conditions, bring documentation to support those concerns. Local judges expect facts and evidence, not just opinions. What to Avoid During the Process While emotions can run high, it’s important to stay focused on the child’s well-being. Avoid speaking negatively about the other parent in front of your children or online, and follow any temporary court orders to the letter. Also, be careful about informal agreements that aren’t court-approved. Even if both parents agree on something, it won’t be legally binding unless it’s documented and approved by the court. Why Local Representation Matters Every county handles custody cases a little differently. Local knowledge can be a major advantage. Attorneys who regularly appear before Macomb County family court judges understand how to present a case effectively, what kind of evidence judges expect, and how to navigate the system without unnecessary delays. At Coppins Law Group, we represent clients in Mt. Clemens and the surrounding areas every day. We’re familiar with the expectations of the local courts, and we focus on helping clients feel informed and supported through the process. If Custody Agreements Break Down If there’s already a custody agreement in place but one parent isn’t following it, you may need to file a motion for enforcement or ask the court to modify the order. This happens more often than many people expect, especially as life changes — jobs shift, children get older, and new partners or moves come into play. The family court will always return to the best interest of the child when reviewing modification requests, but they also look at how well each parent has honored the current agreement. Next Steps if You’re Facing a Custody Dispute in Macomb County If you’re dealing with child custody in or around Mt. Clemens, make sure you know your rights and have the support you need. Custody matters are deeply personal, and you shouldn’t have to navigate them alone. Whether you’re just beginning a divorce, responding to a custody motion, or thinking about modifying an existing arrangement, our office is available to discuss your situation and what steps make the most sense for your family. Disclaimer : This blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Custody outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case, and results can vary. For personalized legal guidance, contact Coppins Law Group directly to schedule a consultation.