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		<title>Gordon &amp; Hess, PLC</title>
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	<title>Gordon &amp; Hess, PLC</title>
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			<item>
				<title>When parenting ends, divorce may follow</title>
				<link>https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/05/when-parenting-ends-divorce-may-follow/</link>
								<pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2026 18:09:07 +0000</pubDate>
				<dc:creator><![CDATA[msmithcontentcustoms]]></dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Divorce]]></category>
				
				<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.gordonhess.com/?p=48454</guid>
									<description><![CDATA[<p>When the youngest child moves out of the house, and the parents are once again living on their own, they are often referred to as empty nesters. For many, this happens when their children leave to go to college, get a job, join the military or take other similar steps. One important thing to keep in mind is that becoming&#8230;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/05/when-parenting-ends-divorce-may-follow/" data-wpel-link="internal">When parenting ends, divorce may follow</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com" data-wpel-link="internal">Gordon & Hess, PLC</a>.</p>]]></description>
																<content:encoded><![CDATA[When the youngest child moves out of the house, and the parents are once again living on their own, they are often referred to as empty nesters. For many, this happens when their children leave to go to college, get a job, join the military or take other similar steps.
One important thing to keep in mind is that becoming empty nesters can sometimes cause a couple to get divorced. This may be surprising to their adult children, and to their friends and family members, but it is a notable trend. Why does this happen so often, and what does it mean for a divorce case?
New life stages
Often, becoming empty nesters is just a different life stage. Parents may have more free time to think about their own relationship now that they are not distracted by raising their children. They may also talk about the future and how they envision it, and they may find that they see their future much differently than their spouse, leading to a divorce.
Additional financial complications
Because the parents are empty nesters, their divorce is simplified in some sense because they do not have to address child custody rights. But it can actually be more complicated financially.
Older couples have more assets to split up, for example, and may have complicated assets like investments, real estate or businesses. On top of that, they have to think about retirement and how to split up savings, retirement plans, pensions or benefits earned through an employer.
If you and your spouse are heading toward a divorce this year, it is very important that you understand your rights when it comes to property division. It can help to work with an experienced divorce attorney as you navigate this process.
&nbsp;The post When parenting ends, divorce may follow first appeared on Gordon & Hess, PLC.]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Can prescription medication lead to a DWI charge? </title>
				<link>https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/05/can-prescription-medication-lead-to-a-dwi-charge/</link>
								<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 19:38:23 +0000</pubDate>
				<dc:creator><![CDATA[msmithcontentcustoms]]></dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Drunk Driving]]></category>
				
				<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.gordonhess.com/?p=48453</guid>
									<description><![CDATA[<p>When most people think about DWI charges, they may picture alcohol or illegal drugs. Some drivers may be surprised, however, to learn that legally prescribed medications can also lead to serious allegations of impaired driving. Prescription medications are often taken to improve a person&#8217;s daily life or manage serious medical conditions. Unfortunately, certain medications can cause side effects that affect&#8230;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/05/can-prescription-medication-lead-to-a-dwi-charge/" data-wpel-link="internal">Can prescription medication lead to a DWI charge? </a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com" data-wpel-link="internal">Gordon & Hess, PLC</a>.</p>]]></description>
																<content:encoded><![CDATA[When most people think about DWI charges, they may picture alcohol or illegal drugs. Some drivers may be surprised, however, to learn that legally prescribed medications can also lead to serious allegations of impaired driving.
Prescription medications are often taken to improve a person&#8217;s daily life or manage serious medical conditions. Unfortunately, certain medications can cause side effects that affect reaction time, coordination or judgment in ways a person may not expect.
Can prescription medication result in a DWI
A DWI charge is generally based on impairment, not on whether the substance involved was legal or illegal. Some prescription medications can affect the brain and body in ways that make driving unsafe, even when taken exactly as directed. Medications used for anxiety, sleep disorders or even allergies may cause drowsiness, dizziness or slowed reaction times. In some cases, these effects can be more pronounced when a person first starts a medication or when their body is still adjusting to it.
In some situations, a driver may not even realize they are impaired. A new prescription, dosage adjustment or interaction between multiple medications can create unexpected side effects that develop gradually throughout the day. Even medications with warning labels may affect people differently depending on personal factors like age, weight and overall health. Someone may feel fully capable of driving while still experiencing subtle impairment that becomes noticeable during a traffic stop, a routine driving maneuver or after an accident occurs.
Law enforcement officers look for signs such as confusion, delayed responses or unusual driving behavior. Chemical testing and field sobriety tests may also become part of the investigation. Because prescription medication cases may involve medical records, dosage questions and complex impairment issues, these situations are often more complicated than many people expect.
A DWI charge involving prescription medication can have serious consequences, even when the medication was legally obtained and properly prescribed. Speaking with an experienced legal professional can help you better understand your options and protect your future.
&nbsp;The post Can prescription medication lead to a DWI charge?  first appeared on Gordon & Hess, PLC.]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>An OWI could affect a divorce case</title>
				<link>https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/05/an-owi-could-affect-a-divorce-case/</link>
								<pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2026 23:43:57 +0000</pubDate>
				<dc:creator><![CDATA[kkuehlcontentcustoms]]></dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Divorce]]></category>
				
				<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.gordonhess.com/?p=48451</guid>
									<description><![CDATA[<p>For some people, the emotional toll of an impending divorce might prompt drinking and other questionable decisions. A spouse self-medicating with alcohol is potentially vulnerable to an operating while intoxicated (OWI) charge. Other times, one spouse&#8217;s arrest for an OWI offense could potentially be the tipping point for a marriage in decline. In some cases, the OWI could be a&#8230;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/05/an-owi-could-affect-a-divorce-case/" data-wpel-link="internal">An OWI could affect a divorce case</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com" data-wpel-link="internal">Gordon & Hess, PLC</a>.</p>]]></description>
																<content:encoded><![CDATA[For some people, the emotional toll of an impending divorce might prompt drinking and other questionable decisions. A spouse self-medicating with alcohol is potentially vulnerable to an operating while intoxicated (OWI) charge.
Other times, one spouse&#8217;s arrest for an OWI offense could potentially be the tipping point for a marriage in decline. In some cases, the OWI could be a prior offense that occurred well before the divorce process began.
A spouse facing divorce while also facing OWI charges or with an OWI conviction on their record may worry about how their drunk driving criminal record might affect the divorce case. How much impact can an OWI have on divorce proceedings?
A conviction could affect custody arrangements
Michigan is a no-fault divorce state. Regardless of what inspires either spouse to file, the courts generally do not consider marital misconduct when deciding how to split marital property. However, criminal records can have a profound impact on the allocation of parental rights and responsibilities.
In some cases, an OWI may be indicative of an ongoing struggle with a substance abuse disorder. Judges may take that into consideration when deciding what terms are in the best interests of the children in the family.
An OWI conviction can reduce one spouse&#8217;s credibility and make them seem less stable for the children. Especially if a parent has multiple convictions or a partially serious offense on their record, the courts may question their ability to meet their children’s needs.
In scenarios where the OWI involved the children as passengers in the vehicle, the impact of a conviction can be much more significant. Under Michigan statutes, operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol with children 16 or younger in the vehicle is a form of child endangerment. A child endangerment conviction is very likely to influence what a judge deems appropriate when dividing parenting time and legal authority.
Those concerned that a pending OWI charge could lead to custody complications may want to mount a vigorous defense. Those with prior convictions on their records may need help presenting their custody case to the courts in a manner that shows they can prioritize their children&#8217;s safety and deserve a reasonable allocation of parenting time despite their prior conviction.
Working with a lawyer who is familiar with both Michigan OWI defense and family law proceedings can be beneficial for those concerned about how charges might affect their parental rights.The post An OWI could affect a divorce case first appeared on Gordon & Hess, PLC.]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Can your child choose to live with your ex?</title>
				<link>https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/05/can-your-child-choose-to-live-with-your-ex/</link>
								<pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2026 08:04:08 +0000</pubDate>
				<dc:creator><![CDATA[msmithcontentcustoms]]></dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Child Custody]]></category>
				
				<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.gordonhess.com/?p=48452</guid>
									<description><![CDATA[<p>As you and your spouse move toward a divorce, you may find yourself worried about the time you are going to spend with your child. Maybe they have a closer relationship with your partner, or maybe they have even told you they would like to live with your ex after the divorce. If you are in this situation, it is&#8230;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/05/can-your-child-choose-to-live-with-your-ex/" data-wpel-link="internal">Can your child choose to live with your ex?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com" data-wpel-link="internal">Gordon & Hess, PLC</a>.</p>]]></description>
																<content:encoded><![CDATA[As you and your spouse move toward a divorce, you may find yourself worried about the time you are going to spend with your child. Maybe they have a closer relationship with your partner, or maybe they have even told you they would like to live with your ex after the divorce.
If you are in this situation, it is important to know that children can sometimes make requests during child custody proceedings. But this does not necessarily mean they can choose exactly where they live, as the court is still going to issue a custody order that is in the child’s best interests.
Age plays a role
One thing to consider at this time is your child’s age. Often, children who are teenagers have more say in their own custody situation. If you have a child who is a high school student, the court may take their request more seriously than if your child is in elementary school. Young children may not even be asked for their preference, and decisions will be made for them.
On top of that, even if the court asks your child for their preference, that does not guarantee that they will set up a custody schedule that aligns with that request. The court will still consider what would be in that child’s best interests. This often means splitting custody between both parents so that you and your ex can maintain a relationship with that child moving forward.
Complex custody solutions
Parents often worry about their custody rights after a divorce, so you are certainly not alone in thinking about these issues in advance. When the situation becomes complex, make sure you understand your parental rights and the legal options you have to seek an appropriate solution.
&nbsp;The post Can your child choose to live with your ex? first appeared on Gordon & Hess, PLC.]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Will I lose my license after an OWI in Michigan?</title>
				<link>https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/05/will-i-lose-my-license-after-an-owi-in-michigan/</link>
								<pubDate>Sat, 02 May 2026 23:42:31 +0000</pubDate>
				<dc:creator><![CDATA[kkuehlcontentcustoms]]></dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Drunk Driving]]></category>
				
				<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.gordonhess.com/?p=48450</guid>
									<description><![CDATA[<p>An operating while intoxicated (OWI) charge in Michigan can result in many significant consequences. People who plead guilty or get convicted are at risk of a jail sentence, financial penalties and probation. A driver&#8217;s license suspension is also a serious concern. Losing the legal privilege of operating a motor vehicle can affect a person&#8217;s ability to maintain gainful employment or&#8230;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/05/will-i-lose-my-license-after-an-owi-in-michigan/" data-wpel-link="internal">Will I lose my license after an OWI in Michigan?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com" data-wpel-link="internal">Gordon & Hess, PLC</a>.</p>]]></description>
																<content:encoded><![CDATA[An operating while intoxicated (OWI) charge in Michigan can result in many significant consequences. People who plead guilty or get convicted are at risk of a jail sentence, financial penalties and probation.
A driver&#8217;s license suspension is also a serious concern. Losing the legal privilege of operating a motor vehicle can affect a person&#8217;s ability to maintain gainful employment or handle critical matters for their family.
Particularly in cases wherein a person accused of an OWI offense in Michigan does not have any prior convictions, they may hope to avoid the most serious penalties imposed for an OWI conviction. Is a driver&#8217;s license suspension automatic or mandatory after an OWI offense in Michigan?
License suspension is a standard penalty
Officers typically retain the physical licenses of individuals arrested for OWI offenses. However, they provide a temporary driving permit to those who submit to chemical testing. The permit allows a motorist to operate a vehicle until the conclusion of their OWI criminal case. They cannot regain a standard license with a photograph until that time.
Refusal to submit to a chemical test has an immediate impact on driving privileges. An officer provides a Failure to Submit to a Chemical Test Notice instead of a permit. The driver then only has 14 days to contest the suspension of their license with the Secretary of State.
An attorney can object, allowing for a hearing regarding the violation of the implied consent law that requires submission to chemical testing after an arrest.
Those who prevail at the hearing can retain their license until the completion of their criminal trial. Those who lose during implied consent hearings may lose their driving privileges unless they appeal in Circuit Court to seek a restricted license. Even then, a restricted license is typically only an option for motorists who have no prior OWI convictions or implied consent violations on their record.
A conviction for a first OWI typically carries a mandatory license suspension that lasts 180 days. Factors, including the driver&#8217;s blood alcohol concentration (BAC), influence the duration of the license suspension. The driver can often seek a restricted license to drive to work, school and other necessary functions after serving the first 30 days of the suspension. Those with BACs over 0.17% may face a 45-day mandatory suspension and 320 days with a restricted license.
A second OWI carries a minimum one-year license revocation, while a third offense can cost a driver their license for up to five years or the rest of their life if the third offense occurs within seven years of the first.
The support of an experienced criminal defense attorney from Gordon &amp; Hess, PLC, can help West Michigan OWI defendants evaluate the case against them and explore strategies for minimizing the penalties imposed by the courts. A successful OWI defense can prevent a conviction and corresponding penalties, including a driver&#8217;s license suspension.The post Will I lose my license after an OWI in Michigan? first appeared on Gordon & Hess, PLC.]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Can a drunk driving charge apply on private property?</title>
				<link>https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/04/can-a-drunk-driving-charge-apply-on-private-property/</link>
								<pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 18:02:31 +0000</pubDate>
				<dc:creator><![CDATA[msmithcontentcustoms]]></dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Drunk Driving]]></category>
				
				<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.gordonhess.com/?p=48449</guid>
									<description><![CDATA[<p>Many drivers assume that drunk driving laws only apply on public roads. In reality, drunk driving laws can extend beyond public highways depending on the jurisdiction.  Understanding how DUI rules work is important, as being on private property does not automatically protect a driver from facing charges. How drunk driving laws are applied In Michigan, laws focus on the act&#8230;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/04/can-a-drunk-driving-charge-apply-on-private-property/" data-wpel-link="internal">Can a drunk driving charge apply on private property?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com" data-wpel-link="internal">Gordon & Hess, PLC</a>.</p>]]></description>
																<content:encoded><![CDATA[Many drivers assume that drunk driving laws only apply on public roads. In reality, drunk driving laws can extend beyond public highways depending on the jurisdiction. 
Understanding how DUI rules work is important, as being on private property does not automatically protect a driver from facing charges.
How drunk driving laws are applied
In Michigan, laws focus on the act of operating a vehicle while impaired rather than the location alone. This means that if a person is found driving under the influence, the charge may still apply even if the incident occurs on private land.
When private property is treated as public
Certain types of private property are considered accessible to the public. These include shopping center parking areas, business premises and shared access roads. When a space is open for general use, it may be treated similarly to a public road for enforcement purposes.
Driving on your own property
Even when on personal property, a driver may still face consequences. If the behavior creates a safety risk or meets the legal definition of impaired operation, charges may still be considered. Ownership of the land does not always change how the law is applied. The focus remains on whether the driver was in control of a vehicle while impaired.
Authority of law enforcement
Authorities can act on private property if there is reasonable suspicion that a crime has occurred. While minor traffic issues may not justify entry, suspected impaired driving often meets the threshold for intervention.
Possible penalties and outcomes
Penalties for impaired driving on private property are generally similar to those on public roads. These may include fines, suspension of driving privileges or other consequences depending on the situation.
Final thoughts 
Drunk driving laws are designed to protect public safety, and their reach can extend beyond traditional roadways. Being aware of how these rules apply can help avoid unexpected legal consequences.
Seeking professional and reliable legal guidance can help clarify how the law applies to your specific situation and what steps to take next.The post Can a drunk driving charge apply on private property? first appeared on Gordon & Hess, PLC.]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Common benefits of having a lawyer negotiate a plea deal</title>
				<link>https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/03/common-benefits-of-having-a-lawyer-negotiate-a-plea-deal/</link>
								<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 23:40:48 +0000</pubDate>
				<dc:creator><![CDATA[kkuehlcontentcustoms]]></dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Criminal Defense]]></category>
				
				<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.gordonhess.com/?p=48448</guid>
									<description><![CDATA[<p>Defendants facing criminal charges have several options available to them. They can work with a defense attorney to suppress evidence and pursue the dismissal of the charges against them. They can develop a thorough trial strategy that might highlight issues with the state&#8217;s evidence or provide strong indications that the person at fault was actually someone else entirely. In many&#8230;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/03/common-benefits-of-having-a-lawyer-negotiate-a-plea-deal/" data-wpel-link="internal">Common benefits of having a lawyer negotiate a plea deal</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com" data-wpel-link="internal">Gordon & Hess, PLC</a>.</p>]]></description>
																<content:encoded><![CDATA[Defendants facing criminal charges have several options available to them. They can work with a defense attorney to suppress evidence and pursue the dismissal of the charges against them. They can develop a thorough trial strategy that might highlight issues with the state&#8217;s evidence or provide strong indications that the person at fault was actually someone else entirely.
In many cases, however, the best option available might be to negotiate a plea bargain. This process generally requires the advocacy of a criminal defense attorney. Why do many defendants who want to fight their criminal charges agree to a plea bargain instead of going to trial?
A faster resolution
The stress of criminal prosecution can affect a person&#8217;s health and relationships. The longer the case drags on, the greater the impact it may have on the defendant&#8217;s overall life and finances. Negotiating a plea bargain can facilitate a much faster end to the criminal justice process.
Reduced charges
Prosecutors often bring multiple charges if they can justify them and may pursue felony charges whenever possible. Plea bargains often involve arrangements to reduce the charges or dismiss secondary charges with a plea only entered for one primary offense.
Limiting penalties
Prosecutors have the authority to take certain criminal penalties off the table. They may agree to recommend probation instead of incarceration if a defendant pleads guilty, for example.
Reviewing one’s charges and the state&#8217;s evidence with a criminal defense attorney can help people evaluate different defense strategies. Plea bargains can be helpful in many cases for those who want to resolve their matters quickly or who face charges backed by robust evidence.The post Common benefits of having a lawyer negotiate a plea deal first appeared on Gordon & Hess, PLC.]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Can suggesting a prenuptial agreement endanger a future marriage?</title>
				<link>https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/03/can-suggesting-a-prenuptial-agreement-endanger-a-future-marriage/</link>
								<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 11:16:38 +0000</pubDate>
				<dc:creator><![CDATA[kkuehlcontentcustoms]]></dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Family Law]]></category>
				
				<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.gordonhess.com/?p=48446</guid>
									<description><![CDATA[<p>For generations, proposing a prenuptial agreement may have seemed like an insult. Historically, celebrities, politicians and particularly wealthy individuals were among the few who may have required a marital contract before getting married. There was an assumption of a lack of trust or a concerning underlying belief that the marriage might not last. Many people who could benefit from creating&#8230;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/03/can-suggesting-a-prenuptial-agreement-endanger-a-future-marriage/" data-wpel-link="internal">Can suggesting a prenuptial agreement endanger a future marriage?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com" data-wpel-link="internal">Gordon & Hess, PLC</a>.</p>]]></description>
																<content:encoded><![CDATA[For generations, proposing a prenuptial agreement may have seemed like an insult. Historically, celebrities, politicians and particularly wealthy individuals were among the few who may have required a marital contract before getting married.
There was an assumption of a lack of trust or a concerning underlying belief that the marriage might not last. Many people who could benefit from creating a prenuptial agreement might feel anxious about proposing a marital contract to their spouses. Despite their fears, many people are now more accepting of prenuptial agreements.
Both spouses likely have something to protect
Long gone are the days when one spouse relied entirely on the other for financial support. The transition to two working spouses as the standard has impacted social attitudes about prenuptial agreements.
Both spouses may have property acquired before marriage that they want to protect or even student loan debts that they need to address. Additionally, when both spouses work, either spouse staying home to raise the couple’s children must make a significant career sacrifice for that purpose.
Social acceptance of prenuptial agreements among Millennials and younger generations is higher than ever before. Most people are receptive to prenuptial agreements, especially if they have already established themselves professionally before getting married.
Engaged couples can even strengthen their marriages by discussing their expectations in advance with one another. Talking about assets, children and other common concerns during marriage can help people start their marriages off with a strong foundation of shared values.
Individuals worried about protecting themselves and their finances may need to consult with a family law attorney. Negotiating a prenuptial agreement can help spouses start a marriage off on equal footing and limit the possibility of a messy divorce in the future.The post Can suggesting a prenuptial agreement endanger a future marriage? first appeared on Gordon & Hess, PLC.]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>If adultery is a crime, can it affect Michigan divorce outcomes?</title>
				<link>https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/03/if-adultery-is-a-crime-can-it-affect-michigan-divorce-outcomes/</link>
								<pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 00:18:26 +0000</pubDate>
				<dc:creator><![CDATA[kkuehlcontentcustoms]]></dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Divorce]]></category>
				
				<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.gordonhess.com/?p=48445</guid>
									<description><![CDATA[<p>Adultery typically devastates a marital relationship. Most people cannot continue a marriage after learning that their spouse has been unfaithful, especially if they carried on a long-term affair with a specific person.  People in Michigan sometimes feel surprised to learn that the state technically considers adultery to be a crime. In fact, state statutes classify adultery as a potential felony&#8230;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/03/if-adultery-is-a-crime-can-it-affect-michigan-divorce-outcomes/" data-wpel-link="internal">If adultery is a crime, can it affect Michigan divorce outcomes?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com" data-wpel-link="internal">Gordon & Hess, PLC</a>.</p>]]></description>
																<content:encoded><![CDATA[Adultery typically devastates a marital relationship. Most people cannot continue a marriage after learning that their spouse has been unfaithful, especially if they carried on a long-term affair with a specific person. 
People in Michigan sometimes feel surprised to learn that the state technically considers adultery to be a crime. In fact, state statutes classify adultery as a potential felony offense. Can individuals with proof of a spouse&#8217;s infidelity expect the courts to take that into consideration during the property division process? 
Michigan only allows for no-fault divorce
Despite the adultery statute currently on the books in Michigan, the family courts do not typically consider marital misconduct when dividing property between spouses. Spouses can only file for divorce on the grounds of irreconcilable differences, leading to a no-fault divorce. 
The family courts may consider evidence of money wasted on the marital affair in some cases. Provable adultery can also have an impact on alimony in some cases. 
For the most part, the courts do not give much weight to allegations of misconduct during divorce proceedings. Spouses who choose to file due to infidelity may need to accept that the final divorce decree may not offer them the vindication they desire. 
 An attorney can help assess whether presenting evidence of financial misconduct related to adultery is likely to influence the final terms of the divorce. It is often preferable to spend time and energy focusing on specific terms for custody, support or property division, rather than trying to prove who was to blame for the breakdown of the marital relationship. 
Focusing on the future rather than seeking justice for the past may be the healthiest approach for those divorcing due to infidelity in Michigan.The post If adultery is a crime, can it affect Michigan divorce outcomes? first appeared on Gordon & Hess, PLC.]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>5 facts to know when dealing with a drunk driving case</title>
				<link>https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/02/5-facts-to-know-when-dealing-with-a-drunk-driving-case/</link>
								<pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 13:14:20 +0000</pubDate>
				<dc:creator><![CDATA[msmithcontentcustoms]]></dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Drunk Driving]]></category>
				
				<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.gordonhess.com/?p=48444</guid>
									<description><![CDATA[<p>A drunk driving charge can feel overwhelming, especially if it is your first encounter with the criminal justice system. The consequences may affect your license, employment record and finances for years to come. Understanding the basics early can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary mistakes. Knowing what to expect at each stage of the driving under the influence&#8230;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com/blog/2026/02/5-facts-to-know-when-dealing-with-a-drunk-driving-case/" data-wpel-link="internal">5 facts to know when dealing with a drunk driving case</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.gordonhess.com" data-wpel-link="internal">Gordon & Hess, PLC</a>.</p>]]></description>
																<content:encoded><![CDATA[A drunk driving charge can feel overwhelming, especially if it is your first encounter with the criminal justice system. The consequences may affect your license, employment record and finances for years to come.
Understanding the basics early can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary mistakes. Knowing what to expect at each stage of the driving under the influence court process is crucial to help you understand what awaits you.
1. Charges and penalties vary
Penalties may include fines, license suspension, mandatory education programs, probation and even jail time. The severity often depends on blood alcohol level, prior offenses and whether anyone was injured.
2. The traffic stop can be challenged
An officer must have a valid reason to stop your vehicle. If the stop was based on insufficient suspicion or if testing procedures were not properly followed, it may affect the strength of the case. Breath or blood testing equipment must be maintained and administered according to strict guidelines.
3. License consequences can happen quickly
Your driving privileges may be suspended soon after arrest through an administrative process separate from the criminal case. There are often short deadlines to request a hearing to challenge the suspension and missing these deadlines can result in automatic penalties even before a court decision
4. Alternative sentencing may be available
First-time offenders may qualify for diversion programs, probation or alcohol education courses instead of incarceration. Courts may also require the installation of an ignition interlock device that prevents a vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected. However, completing required conditions can sometimes reduce long-term consequences.
5. A conviction can have lasting effects
Beyond fines and court orders, a drunk driving conviction can impact employment, professional licenses and insurance rates.
It is worth noting that every drunk driving case is unique, and the outcome depends on the severity and the laws being applied. If you are facing such a situation, seeking timely legal guidance can help you understand your options, protect your rights and plan your next steps with confidence.The post 5 facts to know when dealing with a drunk driving case first appeared on Gordon & Hess, PLC.]]></content:encoded>
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