Criminal Defense Attorneys for Judge Nancy Carniak

The defense lawyers with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. have decades of experience defending clients on felony and misdemeanor charges.

A Tough But Thoughtful and Fair Judge

52-3 District Court Judge Nancy Carniak is one of three district court judges in the courthouse in Rochester Hills, and she and her companion judges serve the communities of Addison Township; Auburn Hills; Lake Angelus; Oakland Township; Orion Township; Oxford Township; Rochester; Rochester Hills; Village of Lake Orion; Village of Leonard; Village of Oxford.

Judge Nancy Carniak in Rochester Hills received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration from Michigan State University in 1979 and a Juris Doctorate from Detroit College of Law in 1985. She began her career in a private law firm and, while working there, began as a magistrate at the 52-3 district court. Judge Carniak was appointed to her judgeship by Governor John Engler in 2000 and has successfully been re-elected to subsequent terms by the people of her district.

Types of criminal cases handled by Judge Nancy Carniak in Rochester Hills

As with all district court judges, Judge Carniak handles all civil infractions (non-criminal matters that carry only a fine), all misdemeanors (cases that carry up to a possible one year in jail), and felony preliminary exams (felony cases are those that carry a possible jail term of more than one year).

A few examples of misdemeanor cases for which a trial may be held are:

Retail Fraud 2nd and 3rd Degree
Operating While Intoxicated or Driving Under the Influence 1st and 2nd Offense (OWI)
Domestic Violence
Driving While License Suspended or Revoked
Misdemeanor Drug Offenses
Assault and Battery
Violation of Probation
Reckless Driving
Larceny and Embezzlement

A few examples of felony cases for which a preliminary exam will be scheduled are:

Felonious Assault
Retail Fraud 1st Degree
Home Invasion
Armed or Unarmed Robbery
Serious Drug Offenses
Operating While Intoxicated 3rd Offense
Criminal Sexual Conduct
Weapons and Drug Crimes

A community-oriented judge who cares for her constituents and believes in giving back.

Judge Nancy Carniak in Rochester Hills is involved in numerous community education programs. She is past president of the Oakland County District Judges’ Association and the Rochester Bar Association. She is a member of the State Bar of Michigan, the Oakland County Bar Association, the Women Lawyers Association, and a Fellow of the Oakland County Bar Foundation. Judge Carniak was the first person to receive the Oakland County Salute to Justice Distinctive Service Award.

Judge Carniak co-founded the Specialty Treatment Court program at the 52-3 District Court. The program focuses on treatment rather than punishment for defendants who have drug and/or alcohol problems. This innovative program is said to have a 3% recidivism rate, which is extraordinary.

The judges in the 52-3 District Court are known for being some of the county’s toughest. They are known to be tough from the start of a case until the end, from setting bonds to sentencing to punishing probation violations. However, any person who finds themselves in Judge Carniak’s court will quickly realize that Judge Carniak is a fair, compassionate, and knowledgeable judge. Her questioning of defendants and her discussions with attorneys on the record, reveals that she is polite and respectful to everyone at all times. It is always a pleasure to appear before Judge Nancy Carniak in Rochester Hills.

It would be best to hire a retained criminal defense attorney if you face charges in Rochester Hills.

When facing criminal charges in the 52-3 District Court, having top, respected criminal defense lawyers like the attorneys from LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. is crucial. Attorneys with extensive experience practicing before Judge Nancy Carniak bring a wealth of knowledge and strategic insight to the table, which can significantly impact the outcome of a case. Their deep understanding of courtroom procedures, coupled with a proven track record of successful defenses, ensures that clients receive the most robust representation possible. This level of expertise and familiarity with the local judicial environment is indispensable for navigating complex legal challenges and achieving favorable results.

Why is hiring a lawyer with experience practicing before Judge Carniak important?

Hiring a lawyer with experience practicing before Judge Nancy Carniak in the 52-3 District Court is invaluable for several reasons. First, an attorney familiar with Judge Carniak’s courtroom procedures and judicial demeanor can navigate the legal process more effectively. This knowledge allows for the anticipation of the judge’s expectations and preferences, ensuring that all submissions and presentations align with the court’s standards. Second, seasoned attorneys understand the nuances of Judge Carniak’s rulings and decision-making patterns, which can be strategically leveraged to build a stronger defense. Furthermore, a lawyer who has previously appeared before Judge Carniak will likely have established a professional rapport, fostering a more collaborative courtroom environment. This experience can result in more favorable plea negotiations and a clearer understanding of potential outcomes, providing clients with a well-informed defense strategy tailored to the specific dynamics of the 52-3 District Court.

Does Judge Carniak sentence defendants to jail?

Although Judge Carniak is known for being fair and tempering her sentences with compassion, she is not to be trifled with at sentencing and she will not hesitate to order a defendant to serve time in jail if she believes incarceration is appropriate. For probation violations, she is known to use jail as a primary punishment. Her balanced approach means that while she considers the individual circumstances of each case and often seeks alternative sentences where possible, she remains firm and resolute when the situation demands it. Defendants appearing before Judge Carniak can expect a judicious blend of empathy and strict adherence to the law, ensuring that justice is served in a manner befitting the gravity of their actions. This underscores the importance of having a seasoned criminal defense attorney, like those at LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C., who are adept at presenting compelling arguments for leniency while effectively addressing any concerns the court may have regarding the need for incarceration.

Successfully handling cases in front of Judge Carniak

The attorneys at LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. regularly appear before Judge Nancy Carniak in Rochester Hills, and we have had excellent experiences in her court. As with most judges, Judge Carniak appreciates preparation and professionalism, and we deliver! Our attorneys regularly appear in Judge Carniak’s court, and we have a great working relationship with Judge Carniak and her staff. If you hire our firm, you can expect the following:

Expertise in criminal law
Strong courtroom presence
Excellent negotiation skills
Thorough investigative abilities
Effective communication
High ethical standards
Accessibility and responsiveness
Compassion and empathy
Strategic thinking
Proven track record of success

If you have a case before Judge Carniak, call LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. for a free consultation. We will find a way to help you.

Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete an online Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.