Michigan's Summer Surge: What the Numbers Tell Us

July consistently ranks high when it comes to the number of criminal cases in Michigan. Law enforcement agencies across the state, from Detroit to Grand Rapids to the smaller jurisdictions like Plymouth and Canton, report increased arrests during this time. Official crime statistics from the Michigan State Police back this up—there's a measurable rise in arrests between June and August, with July at the peak.

This spike spans a wide variety of offenses, including:

• Operating While Intoxicated (OWI)
• Assault and battery
• Disorderly conduct
• Drug possession
• Carrying concealed weapons (CCW)

So, what’s so special about this time of year? Let’s dig into the reasons why July causes criminal defense attorneys to keep their phones on 24/7.

Alcohol, Parties, and OWI Charges

One of the biggest contributors to the July increase is the uptick in social events. Fourth of July parties, lake weekends, and long summer nights lead to more drinking—and unfortunately, more drinking and driving.

Our office has seen countless OWI cases come through in mid-summer. We’re talking about police pulling over drivers for erratic behavior or at sobriety checkpoints set up around big holidays. It’s not uncommon for someone to think they were “just buzzed” only to blow over the legal limit on a handheld breathalyzer.

Under Michigan law, Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) is a serious offense. Even a first-time OWI can lead to:

• Up to 93 days in jail
• Hefty fines and costs
• A six-month license suspension
• Points on your driving record

If you're convicted, the penalties can escalate, especially if it's a second or third offense, or if your blood alcohol content (BAC) was 0.17 or higher—what Michigan calls “High BAC” or “Super Drunk.”

If you’ve been arrested for drunk driving in July or any other time, it's critical you speak with an experienced attorney right away. Call criminal defense lawyer Aaron J. Boria at (734) 453-7806 for a free consultation and get peace of mind during a very stressful time.

Heated Tempers: Assault and Disorderly Conduct

It’s no secret that the heat can cause tempers to flare. In Michigan, the warmer weather means more people are outside—at bars, festivals, sports games, and community events. And whenever alcohol and large crowds mix, the chances of conflict increase.

Simple arguments turn into physical confrontations, resulting in assault and battery or aggravated assault charges. Even if punches aren’t thrown, causing a public disturbance can get you arrested for disorderly conduct, which is a misdemeanor in Michigan punishable by:

• Up to 90 days in jail
• Fines up to $500
• A criminal record

If a weapon is involved or the victim is seriously injured, prosecutors may pursue felony charges such as felonious assault or assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder.

The bottom line is that these kinds of charges can escalate quickly and have long-term consequences. If you’ve been arrested, get experienced representation immediately. Call Boria Law at (734) 453-7806 today.

Gun Ownership and CCW Charges Rise in Summer

Michigan law allows open carry, but only under specific conditions. And even with a CPL (Concealed Pistol License), there are rules in place for where and how a firearm can be carried. During summer festivals, bar crawls, and long weekends up north, it’s not unusual for someone to unknowingly break one of these laws and end up charged with carrying a concealed weapon (CCW).

CCW is a felony that carries up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500. To get a conviction, prosecutors must prove:

• You knowingly carried the weapon
• The weapon was concealed
• You didn't have a lawful reason or permit at the time

If you lawfully owned the firearm but failed to transport it correctly while traveling to your vacation spot, you might still face charges—but you may have a valid defense.

Every defense starts with your story. If you’ve been charged with a gun crime, don’t leave your future to chance. Talk to a Michigan firearm defense attorney who knows how to fight and win. Reach out to Aaron J. Boria at (734) 453-7806 today.

Warm Weather Means More Marijuana and Drug Charges

Even though Michigan has legalized recreational marijuana for adults 21 and over, there are still plenty of ways to get into legal trouble concerning possession and use. For instance:

• Smoking cannabis in a public place (like a park)
• Consuming marijuana and driving—resulting in OWI
• Possessing more than the legal limit
• Transporting marijuana improperly in your vehicle

In addition to marijuana offenses, summer events often see a rise in other controlled substance charges. Michigan law still treats drugs like cocaine, MDMA, and unprescribed pills as felonies—even if it’s just for personal use. Depending on the amount, you could be charged with possession or, worse, possession with intent to deliver, which carries harsher penalties.

Why Does Summer—Especially July—Lead to More Arrests?

There are multiple factors at play when it comes to July being one of the busiest months for criminal defense attorneys in Michigan:

• More daylight hours mean people are active longer, increasing opportunities for encounters with law enforcement.
• Alcohol consumption typically rises, especially around national holidays like the Fourth of July.
• Larger gatherings, open-air events, and travel increase the chances of misunderstandings or poor decisions leading to arrests.
• Youths are out of school and often unsupervised, elevating the chance of juvenile offenses like shoplifting, underage drinking, or drug use.
• Police departments are more visible in summer, particularly around tourist destinations and lakeside towns in Michigan.

From a sociological perspective, the surge in arrests is a mix of increased opportunity, impaired judgment, and enhanced police presence. Whether you made a poor decision or simply got caught up in the chaos of a summertime celebration, it only takes one night to change your life.

What to Do If You Get Arrested This Summer

If you find yourself facing criminal charges after a July arrest in Michigan, here’s what you should do:

1. Stay Silent: Exercise your right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you.
2. Request a Lawyer: Tell the officers you want to speak to a criminal defense lawyer immediately.
3. Don’t Consent: If officers ask to search your car or belongings, you don’t have to say yes.
4. Take Notes: If possible, document everything about the arrest—times, interactions, witnesses.

The sooner you get an attorney involved, the more options you may have during the early stages of the case. Sometimes charges can be reduced or dismissed before they ever reach trial.

If you’ve been arrested this summer, call Aaron J. Boria at (734) 453-7806. We offer confidential, free consultations and can help you navigate your way through the legal system.

Consult a Top Criminal Defense Attorney in Michigan

At Boria Law, we’ve helped hundreds of clients across the state fight their criminal charges—and win. Whether it's OWI, assault, drug possession, or CCW, you deserve a fair trial and a strong advocate by your side. If you're looking for a Michigan criminal lawyer who doesn't back down, you've come to the right place.

We work in courts throughout Michigan and have built a reputation for aggressive representation and honest guidance. Don't let an arrest in July—or any month—define your future. We're here to help.

Call us at (734) 453-7806 or use our website to schedule your free consultation today.

Conclusion

July might be a time for sun, sand, and celebrating independence—but it’s also when we see a spike in criminal cases across Michigan. Increased alcohol use, larger crowds, and heightened police presence all contribute to the rise in arrests, and the types of charges vary from OWI to assault and everything in between.

If you or someone you care about is facing charges this summer, don’t wait. The sooner you take action, the more control you have over the outcome. At Boria Law, we’re here to protect your rights, guide you through the criminal justice system, and help you move forward with your life.

Call (734) 453-7806 now for your free consultation with criminal defense attorney Aaron J. Boria. We fight, and we win.