Criminal Defense
Probable Cause Hearing Michigan
Learn what a probable cause hearing is in Michigan, what happens during it, and how it can impact the outcome of your case.
August 1, 2026
Read legal insights from Ryan Maesen Attorney at Law.
Field sobriety tests are one of the most common tools law enforcement uses during DUI (OWI) investigations in Michigan.
If you’ve been pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving, there’s a good chance you were asked to perform one or more of these tests on the side of the road.
But here’s what many people don’t realize:
👉 Field sobriety tests are not always reliable—and they can often be challenged in court.
Understanding how these tests work—and their limitations—can make a major difference in your defense.
Field sobriety tests are physical and cognitive exercises used by police officers to assess whether a driver may be impaired.
They are typically conducted during a traffic stop when an officer suspects alcohol or drug use.
These tests are designed to evaluate:
There are three standardized tests recognized by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
Field sobriety tests are often presented as reliable—but they are far from perfect.
Several factors can affect performance:
👉 Even completely sober individuals can struggle with these tests.
In Michigan, field sobriety tests are voluntary.
You can legally refuse to perform them.
However:
👉 This is different from chemical tests, which have separate legal consequences.
Prosecutors often use these tests to:
But their reliability can be challenged.
An experienced defense attorney can examine:
Were the tests administered properly?
Were conditions safe and appropriate?
Did health issues affect performance?
Does dashcam footage contradict the officer’s report?
👉 These factors can weaken the prosecution’s case significantly.
Field sobriety tests often form the foundation of a DUI case.
If these tests are flawed:
👉 Speak with a Grand Rapids DUI lawyer to evaluate your case.
Get a free consultation with Ryan Maesen. Discuss your case, understand your options, and learn what steps to take next.
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Learn what a probable cause hearing is in Michigan, what happens during it, and how it can impact the outcome of your case.
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The decisions you make in the first 24 hours can affect your case.
Call Ryan Maesen now for a confidential consultation.
(616) 821-7691