McDonald Pierangeli Macfarlane, PLLCMcDonald Pierangeli Macfarlane, PLLC2026-07-07T13:03:20Zhttps://www.mpmtrialattorneys.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1203344/2022/11/cropped-site-icon-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of McDonald Pierangeli Macfarlane, PLLC<![CDATA[What is an SSDI reconsideration?]]>https://www.mpmtrialattorneys.com/?p=494512026-07-02T13:04:08Z2026-07-07T13:03:20ZWhat happens during an SSDI reconsideration?
A reconsideration is an internal process conducted by the SSA when applicants appeal a denied claim. Applicants can correct any errors or omissions in their initial paperwork. They may submit additional medical documentation that validates the extent of their medical challenges.
An SSA employee who did not participate in the assessment of the original application reviews the application, any corrections and any supplemental materials provided during this early appeals process. Reconsideration can be a quick process, resulting in a changed decision in a matter of days or weeks.
If another professional working for the SSA determines that the initial denial of benefits was an error that technically violated SSA standards, the applicant receives an approval notice. If the reconsideration process is not successful, the applicant can proceed to the next stage of appeal, which involves a hearing in front of an administrative law judge.
Having guidance when applying for SSDI benefits or appealing a denied application can make the process easier to manage. Professionals who can no longer work may require support as they apply for SSDI benefits.]]>On Behalf of McDonald Pierangeli Macfarlane, PLLC<![CDATA[Is it legal to drive in Michigan when taking prescription drugs?]]>https://www.mpmtrialattorneys.com/?p=494492026-06-18T11:39:45Z2026-06-23T11:39:13ZMany medications affect driving capability
There are dozens of different drugs that can affect a motorist’s ability to drive safely. Pain relievers, muscle relaxants, anti-seizure medication, psychiatric drugs and even sleep aids are all medications that can impact the ability to drive safely.
In Michigan, prosecutors can bring operating while intoxicated (OWI) charges due to alcohol impairment or impaired abilities related to drugs. Those accused of driving while under the influence of a Schedule I prohibited substance are likely to face prosecution.
Many lower-schedule substances that doctors prescribe also affect driving capabilities and could justify OWI charges. People who admit to taking medications that have an association with diminished driving capability and those who test positive for certain medications are potentially at risk of OWI charges.
Unlike with alcohol, there is no per se chemical limit for prescription medications. Any detectable amount, especially when accompanied by poor driving, could trigger OWI charges.
Drivers accused of a drugged driving offense involving a legal prescription may need assistance responding to their pending charges. Reviewing medical records and other key documentation with a criminal defense attorney can help those accused of drugged driving understand and make use of their legal rights.]]>On Behalf of McDonald Pierangeli Macfarlane, PLLC<![CDATA[What is the cornerstone of an SSDI determination?]]>https://www.mpmtrialattorneys.com/?p=494472026-06-05T12:51:08Z2026-06-10T12:50:09ZMedical evidence is one of the most important parts of any Social Security disability application. The Social Security Administration (SSA) itself calls this the cornerstone of the disability determination.Certainly, much other information also has to be provided identifying the individual and demonstrating their qualifications as they seek benefits. But when the SSA is trying to determine if a person is actually disabled and qualifies for those critical benefits, medical evidence carries the most weight.
What type of evidence can be used?
Every case is unique. Written statements from a primary care provider can be a form of medical evidence. Other examples include:
Medical health records
Statements from specialists and medical professionals
Statements from expert medical witnesses
Lab results
Results from tests or scans, such as CAT scans or MRIs
Documentation from a pharmacy showing what medication a person receives
In some cases, when people are denied after submitting a disability application, they take it as the SSA claiming that they are not disabled. This can be very disheartening for them because they know that they are living with a disability every day. How could the SSA get it so wrong?The key is to remember that the SSA is not saying you are not disabled. They are just saying they do not have enough evidence to make that determination at this time. You can sometimes appeal a denial, provide additional evidence and get the approval you are seeking.Navigating this process can be complex and it has a major impact on your future, so it can be helpful to work with an experienced SSDI attorney.
]]>On Behalf of McDonald Pierangeli Macfarlane, PLLC<![CDATA[Can driving while suspended affect your license reinstatement?]]>https://www.mpmtrialattorneys.com/?p=494422026-05-28T13:23:49Z2026-06-02T13:23:07ZAdditional violations often create longer delays
Driving while suspended can hurt your license reinstatement. Another violation may create more delays. In Michigan, drivers generally cannot operate a vehicle after a suspension or revocation. After two OWI convictions, officials often focus on safe choices and long-term sobriety during the restoration review.
A driving-while-suspended conviction can raise new concerns about both. Common consequences include:
Mandatory extension of your license loss: Driving while suspended can add more time to your revocation period.
Higher financial costs: You may face court fines, reinstatement charges, towing bills and storage fees.
Greater risk of revocation: Some drivers face a complete loss of driving privileges. That can replace a suspension with a clear end date.
New criminal charges: Driving while suspended can lead to a misdemeanor. It can also become a felony if the violation causes serious injury or death.
These penalties often reach beyond money or added waiting periods. Officials may view the new offense as a sign that you ignored license restrictions. A revocation creates a more demanding path. You usually need a formal hearing before your driving privileges return. During that hearing, officials may review your recent conduct and recovery efforts.
People charged with substance-use-related traffic offenses in Michigan may need alcohol screening or awareness classes. These records can help show what steps you have taken since the offense.
Looking ahead after a suspended driving charge
Transportation problems can create serious strain after a license revocation. Work schedules and family obligations do not stop simply because you cannot drive.
If you plan to pursue a driver’s license appeal, early preparation can make the next steps easier. You may need recovery records, proof of compliance and a clear account of your recent conduct. Legal guidance may help you organize those documents and reduce the risk of added setbacks.]]>On Behalf of McDonald Pierangeli Macfarlane, PLLC<![CDATA[Michigan roadside drug recognition evaluations]]>https://www.mpmtrialattorneys.com/?p=494442026-05-26T14:45:17Z2026-05-27T12:05:54ZHow drug recognition evaluations work
Police officers use a structured evaluation process to assess suspected drug impairment. Evaluations include several steps that focus on physical signs, behavioral observations and divided attention tasks. Each stage of the process helps the officer determine whether impairment may be present.
Observation of driving behavior: Officers look for signs that suggest impaired operation of a vehicle.
Physical assessment: This includes eye examinations, pulse checks and muscle tone evaluations.
Field sobriety tasks: Officers may ask drivers to complete tasks that measure attention, balance and coordination.
The officer follows a standardized step-by-step formula that helps them document their observations consistently.
Common issues that arise in drugged driving cases
Drugged driving often involves complex evidence. Individuals may face questions about prescription use, medical conditions or the timing of substance exposure. These issues can influence how the case proceeds and what defense options are available moving forward.
Having a legal representative review your drugged driving case can lead to defense strategies you may not have considered.]]>On Behalf of McDonald Pierangeli Macfarlane, PLLC<![CDATA[What is the Compassionate Allowances SSDI program?]]>https://www.mpmtrialattorneys.com/?p=494382026-05-08T08:59:53Z2026-05-13T08:59:28ZHow does the Compassionate Allowances program work?
The SSA recognizes that some conditions are so severe that people are unlikely to ever return to work. There are dozens of conditions, ranging from degenerative diseases to aggressive cancers, that might make workers eligible for faster SSDI benefits approval through the Compassionate Allowances program.
The SSA uses specialized software to screen applications for phrases and specific conditions that are likely to qualify a professional for benefits. The Compassionate Allowances program may help qualifying professionals receive SSDI benefits in a matter of days or weeks instead of forcing them to wait for months for an official response.
Detailed, accurate applications for those seeking SSDI benefits, especially if they hope to secure expedited approval through the Compassionate Allowances program. Those who do not qualify rapidly under the Compassionate Allowances program may wait longer for their initial decision and may need to appeal to pursue a fair decision.
Working with an SSDI benefits lawyer can help people understand their eligibility and manage the SSDI application process. Those with especially severe conditions may qualify for benefits more quickly, and seeking guidance can help to ensure timely receipt of benefits.]]>On Behalf of McDonald Pierangeli Macfarlane, PLLC<![CDATA[How fast will your BAC decline?]]>https://www.mpmtrialattorneys.com/?p=494362026-04-23T12:58:26Z2026-04-28T12:57:49ZYour blood alcohol concentration (BAC) plays a big role in the charges you face if you are pulled over for impaired driving. If you have violated the legal limit, which is 0.08% for most drivers, then you could find yourself facing charges because officers can presume that you are impaired.
Many people will drink alcohol, wait for what they believe to be an appropriate amount of time, and then drive their vehicle. They are waiting so that their BAC can go down. They do not intend to drive drunk, and they may believe they have waited long enough for their BAC to get under the limit.
The decline is relatively slow
If you do this, the important thing to keep in mind is that your BAC does not drop very quickly at all. The standard rate that researchers have found is about 0.015% per hour.So, for example, if you had a BAC of 0.03%, it would still take about two hours for you to get to zero. If your BAC was at 0.09%, which is over the legal limit, then it would take about six hours to return to zero.Often, drivers will wait for a half hour or 45 minutes, and they will believe that they have sobered up enough to drive. But the reality is that there has not been a meaningful change to their BAC, so they could still fail a breath test.
Your defense options
Have you found yourself facing charges for impaired driving? They can have a major impact on your finances, your driver’s license, your career and much more, so it is critical that you understand what legal options you have.]]>On Behalf of McDonald Pierangeli Macfarlane, PLLC<![CDATA[What should you expect during a continuing disability review?]]>https://www.mpmtrialattorneys.com/?p=494342026-04-17T10:43:54Z2026-04-22T10:42:53ZWhat triggers a continuing disability review?
The SSA typically assigns your case a review schedule based on how likely your condition will improve. Reviews usually follow one of three timelines:
Medical Improvement Expected: 6 to 18 months
Medical Improvement Possible: 3 years
Medical Improvement Not Expected: 5–7 years
A review can also start sooner if you report work activity or an increase in earnings exceeding the SSA’s limits. If you are currently working while receiving Social Security disability, it is important to follow SSA reporting rules. Failing to report accurately can lead to an overpayment of benefits, which the SSA will require you to repay.
What does the SSA evaluate during a CDR?
When you undergo a CDR, the SSA evaluates whether your condition still prevents your ability to work. It often assesses:
Your recent treatment notes and hospital records
Whether you follow prescribed treatment, unless you have a valid reason not to (for example, you cannot afford care)
How your symptoms affect daily tasks and work functions
Your work activity and earnings, if any
Gathering medical records, tracking symptoms and noting work or earnings changes can make responding to requests easier and more accurate.
What happens if the SSA stops benefits?
If the SSA decides you still qualify, it will continue your benefits. If not, a notice will be sent that explains the decision and your appeal rights.
Federal law allows appeal requests within 60 days to address discrepancies in the review. In some cases, filing a reconsideration request within 10 days of receiving the cessation notice allows your benefits to continue during the appeal process.
Preparing for a continuing disability review
While a CDR can feel daunting, careful preparation can make the process more manageable. Staying organized not only helps you respond accurately to SSA requests but also provides a clearer picture of how your condition affects daily life and work. This makes it easier to represent the condition accurately throughout the review and support access to continued benefits.]]>On Behalf of McDonald Pierangeli Macfarlane, PLLC<![CDATA[Understanding Michigan’s super drunk driving law]]>https://www.mpmtrialattorneys.com/?p=494322026-04-07T13:35:44Z2026-04-10T13:34:21ZMichigan's super drunk law beyond a typical OWI
Under this law, any driver whose BAC registers at 0.17 or higher faces a more severe category of charges. That threshold is more than double the standard legal limit of 0.08.
The penalties at stake for this type of charge
Because Michigan's "super drunk" law carries elevated penalties, a conviction may result in the following consequences:
A one-year driver’s license suspension, starting with a mandatory 45-day hard suspension
Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device to obtain restricted driving privileges
Ultimately, first-time offenders with a high BAC face consequences typically reserved for repeat offenders. A single charge under this statute can have a lasting impact on your criminal record and your daily life.
Defense strategies to consider
A common defense strategy in OWI cases is challenging the accuracy of the breathalyzer test. These devices need regular upkeep and proper handling, and errors in either area can produce readings that do not reflect your actual BAC at the time of driving.
The traffic stop itself is another area worth a close look. Officers need reasonable suspicion to pull you over, and if the stop lacked legal grounds, the evidence collected afterward may be thrown out.
A rising BAC defense may come into play as well. Alcohol takes time to absorb into your bloodstream, which means your BAC while driving may have been lower than the reading taken later at the station.]]>On Behalf of McDonald Pierangeli Macfarlane, PLLC<![CDATA[Factors that can affect your SSDI application]]>https://www.mpmtrialattorneys.com/?p=494282026-03-26T12:22:09Z2026-03-31T16:24:04Zseeking SSDI benefits.
Incomplete or incorrect paperwork
To thoroughly review your claim, the Social Security Administration (SSA) requires in-depth documentation to confirm you qualify. As a result, many SSDI application denials are caused by missing or inaccurate information.
Ensuring that your provided personal, work and medical data is complete and up to date can help you cut the waiting period. Reviewing your information closely and seeking legal advice can build a credible case that yields a more positive result.
Lack of supporting medical documentation
Many SSDI claims hinge on the seriousness of the disability, including qualifying mental problems. If your application is missing relevant medical proof, the SSA may not consider your condition to be long-term and disabling. Asking your doctor to provide detailed notes and test results can add to the evidence needed to strengthen your case.
Missed deadlines or appointments
Your local SSA agency may contact you to request additional information or schedule a follow-up appointment. You may also have to attend a consultative exam for medical documentation. Missing these calls and meetings can possibly derail your application. Keeping your schedule flexible and tracking important deadlines help ensure you never miss a critical evaluation.
Noncompliance with prescribed treatment
The SSA also monitors whether you are actively managing your health. This includes following the treatment recommended by your doctor to show a genuine effort toward recovery or stability. Failing to do so can lead to a claim denial, as the agency may decide your condition is not serious enough to warrant benefits.
System backlogs
Your claim may be delayed or denied due to high application volumes or SSA staffing issues during the processing period. This is beyond your control, but you can still do your part by monitoring your case status and following up if it’s been too long.
Putting your best foot forward
Your initial application is an important first step in a complex and time-consuming process. Understanding what can negatively affect your claim and seeking legal guidance can help you put together a case that is complete and supported.]]>