Wedding Season Arrests in Plymouth: Domestic Violence, Disorderly Conduct, and OWI Charges After a Reception

May is the start of wedding season in Plymouth, with Saint John's Resort, the Inn at St. John's, and other venues hosting large receptions every weekend. Most receptions end without incident — but every year, a handful of late-night arguments, parking-lot scuffles, and post-reception drives lead to criminal charges.

Here is what you need to know if your wedding weekend ended with an arrest.

Disorderly Conduct

Under MCL 750.167, disorderly conduct in Michigan covers a wide range of behavior — from public intoxication to fighting in a public place. It is a 90-day misdemeanor and is one of the most common charges that comes out of crowded receptions and parking lots.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence in Michigan is governed by MCL 750.81. It applies when an assault is committed against a spouse, former spouse, dating partner, person who shares a child with you, or someone you live with. A first offense is a 93-day misdemeanor, but penalties escalate with prior offenses and with aggravating factors.

A domestic violence arrest in Michigan typically triggers a no-contact order between the parties, even before any conviction. That can affect housing, custody, and access to shared property.

Assault and Battery

A simple assault or assault and battery under MCL 750.81 is a 93-day misdemeanor. Aggravated assault under MCL 750.81a is a one-year misdemeanor. Felonious assault under MCL 750.82 — assault with a dangerous weapon — is a four-year felony.

OWI After the Reception

Many guests leave large weddings well past midnight after hours of dinner service and toasts. OWI charges under MCL 257.625 carry up to 93 days in jail for a first offense (180 days for High BAC of .17 or higher), license sanctions, six driver-record points, and substance abuse treatment.

Where the Case Will Be Heard

Incidents at venues in Plymouth Township, including Saint John's, are typically arraigned in the 35th District Court in Plymouth. The arraignment is your first hearing — you should have a lawyer involved before that date if at all possible.

What to Do Now

• Do not contact the alleged victim or witnesses, especially if a no-contact order is in place.
• Do not post about the incident on social media.
• Save photos, text messages, and the guest list — they may be needed for the defense.
• Get an attorney involved immediately.

Call Boria Law Today

If you were arrested after a wedding reception in Plymouth, attorney Aaron J. Boria of Boria Law can help you understand the charges and start building a defense. Boria Law handles assault, domestic violence, OWI, and disorderly conduct cases in the 35th District Court.

Call (734) 453-7806 today for a free consultation.