What to Expect at 35th District Court Arraignments: Easter, 4/20, and Opening Day Arrests Explained

The 35th District Court and Its Jurisdiction

The 35th District Court is located at 660 Plymouth Road in Plymouth, Michigan. It handles misdemeanor criminal cases (such as drunk driving, drug possession, and assault), preliminary examinations for felony charges, civil infractions, and local ordinance violations. If you were arrested in Plymouth, Canton, or Northville, this is likely the first court you will appear in.

Because arraignments are the defendant’s first formal court appearance, this step marks the official beginning of the criminal process. Whether your arrest occurred on Opening Day in Detroit and was transferred to Plymouth jurisdiction, or during an Easter weekend celebration that led to an OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) charge, the process follows a predictable but serious pattern.

Why Holidays and Events Lead to Increased Arrests

Every year, the 35th District Court experiences an influx of cases after major social events. While every situation differs, common factors often include alcohol consumption, recreational marijuana use (which remains regulated under Michigan law), and misunderstandings that escalate into public disturbances or assaults.

• Easter Weekend: Family gatherings and brunches sometimes include alcohol. DUI and domestic disturbance charges become more common during this time.
• 4/20 Celebrations: Although marijuana is legal for recreational use in Michigan, operating a vehicle while impaired by marijuana remains illegal. This often results in OWI-Drug cases the following week.
• Opening Day Festivities: The excitement surrounding baseball season in Metro Detroit often includes tailgating and day-long celebrations. These events are associated with a temporary increase in OWI and disorderly conduct charges.

Law enforcement presence is usually heightened during these events, and even minor missteps can result in an arrest. Knowing what happens next legally will help you take responsible steps toward protecting your rights.

Understanding the Arraignment Process at the 35th District Court

Your arraignment is your first court appearance following an arrest or the issuance of a criminal complaint. The purpose of this hearing is not to determine guilt or innocence. Instead, it serves several procedural functions:

• The judge formally reads your charges.
• You are informed of the maximum possible penalties if convicted.
• The court explains your constitutional rights, including the right to remain silent, to have an attorney, and to request a court-appointed lawyer if you can’t afford one.
• The judge decides on bond and conditions for your release.
• You enter a plea—typically “not guilty” at this stage.

Depending on your attorney’s strategy, a waiver of arraignment may be filed to skip this appearance. However, for most misdemeanor charges or if you are in custody, you’ll be required to appear in person or virtually at the 35th District Court.

Bond and Release Conditions

At arraignment, the judge will set bond. Michigan law allows the court to consider factors such as prior criminal history, employment, family ties, and the seriousness of the offense when making this decision. Bonds can be personal recognizance (no money required), a cash bond, or a surety bond posted through an agency.

In alcohol or drug-related arrests—such as those that occur on 4/20 or Opening Day—judges frequently impose additional conditions of release, including:

• Mandatory alcohol or drug testing
• Restrictions on leaving the state
• No-contact orders (in domestic violence cases)
• Curfews or travel limitations
• Refraining from entering bars or establishments serving alcohol

If you violate any condition of your bond, the judge can revoke it and issue a bench warrant, requiring you to be taken into custody again.

Common Charges Seen After Easter, 4/20, and Opening Day

When you appear for an arraignment at the 35th District Court following one of these festive periods, the most common charges tend to involve substance use or public behavior. Some frequent examples include:

• Operating While Intoxicated (OWI): Michigan’s version of DUI. A first offense is a misdemeanor with up to 93 days in jail, a fine up to $500, and possible license suspension.
• High BAC (“Super Drunk”): Applies when your blood alcohol concentration is .17 or higher. Enhanced penalties include up to 180 days in jail and extended license suspension periods.
• Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI): A lesser included offense that still carries serious penalties, including fines and license restrictions.
• OWI–Controlled Substance: Commonly charged after 4/20. Michigan law prohibits operating a vehicle while under the influence of any controlled substance, even if legally possessed.
• Disorderly Conduct or Public Intoxication: Typical for post-event arrests after Opening Day or celebrations that got out of hand. These misdemeanors can still lead to permanent criminal records if not properly resolved.

Each of these charges has unique legal elements that the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. A thorough review of the arrest and evidence often provides opportunities to challenge the case and achieve a favorable outcome.

What Happens After Arraignment

Following arraignment, your case will proceed to the pretrial stage. Here, your defense attorney has the opportunity to review evidence, file motions, and negotiate with the prosecutor. The 35th District Court is known for its efficient scheduling, so cases typically progress quickly through the following phases:

1. Pretrial Conference

This is the next scheduled court date following arraignment. Your attorney will discuss potential plea offers or file motions to challenge the legality of the stop, testing procedures, or statements made to police. Many cases are resolved at this stage through agreements that spare clients from trial.

2. Motion Hearings

If there are questions about whether the police lawfully stopped your vehicle, conducted a search, or collected breath/blood evidence properly, your attorney may file a motion to suppress evidence. Success at this stage can lead to a significant reduction or outright dismissal of charges.

3. Trial

If no resolution is reached, your case moves to trial. In misdemeanor cases, you can elect to have either a bench trial (decided by a judge) or a jury trial. Your attorney’s strategy will depend on the strengths and weaknesses of the evidence against you and the tendencies of the presiding judge.

Meet the Judges of the 35th District Court

Knowing who your judge is can help shape the defense strategy. The 35th District Court currently has three distinguished judges:

• Judge Michael Gerou: Known for his methodical approach and focus on rehabilitation in substance-related cases. His courtroom expectations are strict, but he values honesty and accountability.
• Judge James Plakas: Brings both prosecution and defense experience to the bench. Fair but detail-oriented, he emphasizes following procedural law carefully.
• Judge Joe Barone: The newest judge on the bench, Judge Barone has a reputation for understanding the challenges faced by younger defendants and first-time offenders, particularly in cases involving alcohol or marijuana use.

Each judge applies Michigan law uniformly but operates with their own courtroom style and expectations. Working with an experienced local attorney who knows the court’s approach can make a measurable difference in outcomes.

Defending Against OWI and Misdemeanor Charges

In many arraignment cases—especially those following holidays—defense strategies focus on procedural errors, insufficient evidence, or mitigating factors that lessen culpability. Examples include:

• Challenging the legality of a traffic stop
• Contesting the accuracy of breath or blood alcohol tests
• Questioning probable cause for arrest
• Demonstrating lack of intent or misinterpretation of conduct in disorderly conduct cases
• Highlighting constitutional violations such as unlawful search or seizure

Even if the evidence appears strong, an experienced attorney can negotiate reduced charges, minimize penalties, and help preserve your driving privileges.

Why Hiring a Local Defense Attorney Matters

The 35th District Court operates under Michigan’s criminal procedure rules but maintains local practices that experienced attorneys understand well. Hiring a defense lawyer familiar with this specific court—its judges, prosecutors, and probation department—can directly benefit your case outcome.

Your attorney can often waive arraignment, negotiate favorable bond conditions, and engage in early discussions with the prosecutor’s office. These early interventions can minimize stress, prevent costly mistakes, and position your case for dismissal or reduction.

Getting Help After an Arrest

If you or someone you know is facing arraignment after a holiday or event-related arrest in Plymouth, Canton, or Northville, it’s essential to act quickly. At Boria Law, we’ve helped countless clients facing OWI, disorderly conduct, and other misdemeanor charges secure reduced penalties or complete dismissals.

Attorney Aaron J. Boria is a seasoned Michigan criminal defense lawyer with extensive experience defending cases at the 35th District Court. Contact him today for a free consultation.

Conclusion

Arraignments at the 35th District Court are more than just procedural—they set the tone for your entire case. Whether your arrest followed Easter weekend, a 4/20 gathering, or Opening Day festivities, the process is the same: charges are read, bond is set, and rights are explained. Understanding this process empowers you to take control early and defend your future effectively.

Even one mistake doesn’t have to define you. The court’s goal is justice under Michigan law, not automatic punishment. With the right legal representation, many clients avoid convictions, achieve dismissals, or minimize long-term consequences.

Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, but with knowledgeable support and prompt action, you can protect your rights and move forward confidently. If you or someone you care about has an upcoming arraignment at the 35th District Court, contact Attorney Aaron J. Boria today at (734) 453-7806 for immediate legal guidance.