Press release
Oakland County Criminal Defense Lawyer Paul J. Tafelski Discusses the Challenges of EtG Testing
Paul J. Tafelski (https://www.michigandefenselaw.com/blog/etg-test/), an Oakland County criminal defense lawyer from Michigan Defense Law, highlights the complications surrounding the use of EtG tests in probation cases. The EtG test, or ethyl glucuronide test, is often used by Michigan probation officers to detect alcohol consumption in individuals under probation. However, Tafelski explains that this method, while widely used, raises significant concerns about its accuracy and reliability in legal proceedings.The EtG test has gained popularity due to its ability to detect alcohol consumption for up to 80 hours after ingestion. Probationers in Michigan are frequently subjected to these tests, either as part of a scheduled check or without prior notice. Oakland County criminal defense lawyer Paul J. Tafelski warns that a failed EtG test can lead to probation violations, potentially resulting in severe consequences such as extended probation, additional restrictions, or even incarceration.
While the intention behind the EtG test is to promote accountability among probationers, the Oakland County criminal defense lawyer emphasizes the risk of false positives. Products containing trace amounts of alcohol-such as hand sanitizers, mouthwash, or certain medications-can trigger a positive result. This raises serious questions about the fairness of using such tests as definitive proof of probation violations.
Tafelski points to official advisories and studies that have questioned the reliability of the EtG test. The U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) issued a 2006 advisory cautioning against using EtG tests as the sole basis for disciplinary actions. Additionally, a 2009 study published in Forensic Science International found that the EtG test was not a reliable indicator of alcohol consumption.
"The main problem with the EtG test is that it's actually too sensitive," Tafelski explains. "While it does detect alcohol in urine, it cannot determine the source of that alcohol. This means that using hand sanitizer or other everyday products could cause someone to fail the test, even if they haven't consumed any alcoholic beverages."
According to the Oakland County criminal defense lawyer, probation officers in Michigan continue to rely on the EtG test despite its flaws. He stresses that probationers who fail an EtG test must take immediate action to protect their rights.
Tafelski advises individuals facing probation violations due to a failed EtG test to challenge the validity of the results. He points out that under Michigan law, those accused of probation violations have the right to a hearing where they can dispute the evidence presented against them. Unlike a criminal trial, a probation violation hearing requires a lower burden of proof, making it even more important to question the reliability of test results.
In addition to SAMHSA's concerns, other organizations have raised red flags about the EtG test's sensitivity. One significant issue is its inability to distinguish between ethanol from alcoholic beverages and ethanol present in everyday products. This lack of distinction can lead to unjust penalties for probationers who may be adhering to their abstinence requirements.
Tafelski reiterates that probation violations should never be taken lightly, as they can have long-lasting consequences on a person's life and freedom. He emphasizes that the EtG test should not be the sole determining factor in such serious legal matters.
For those who have failed an EtG test, Tafelski suggests consulting an Oakland County criminal defense lawyer immediately. A skilled attorney can help challenge the test results, present mitigating evidence, and advocate for a fair hearing in court.
The discussion around the EtG test brings attention to broader concerns about the tools used to enforce probation conditions. It raises the question of whether the justice system should continue to rely on testing methods that have been criticized for their accuracy.
At Michigan Defense Law, Paul J. Tafelski and his team are committed to defending the rights of those accused of probation violations. They work diligently to challenge unreliable evidence and help their clients achieve the best possible outcomes. Tafelski underscores the importance of exploring all available defenses to ensure that probationers are not unfairly penalized based on questionable test results.
For individuals accused of probation violations due to a failed EtG test, the stakes are high. Addressing the issue promptly with the assistance of a qualified Oakland County criminal defense lawyer can make a critical difference in the outcome of their case.
About Michigan Defense Law:
Paul J. Tafelski is a criminal defense lawyer serving Oakland County and the greater Michigan area. With extensive experience in defending individuals accused of various crimes, including probation violations, he is dedicated to protecting his clients' rights and achieving favorable legal outcomes. Michigan Defense Law provides legal representation in a range of criminal cases, including those involving DUI, drug offenses, and probation issues.
Embeds:
Youtube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LbaEwsly83U
GMB: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=7441820969606749572
Email and website
Email: paul@michigandefenselaw.com
Website: https://www.michigandefenselaw.com/
Media Contact
Company Name: Michigan Defense Law
Contact Person: Paul J. Tafelski
Email:Send Email [https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=oakland-county-criminal-defense-lawyer-paul-j-tafelski-discusses-the-challenges-of-etg-testing]
Phone: (248) 451-2200
Address:2525 S Telegraph Rd suite 100
City: Bloomfield Hills
State: Michigan 48302
Country: United States
Website: https://www.michigandefenselaw.com/
This release was published on openPR.
Permanent link to this press release:
Copy
Please set a link in the press area of your homepage to this press release on openPR. openPR disclaims liability for any content contained in this release.
You can edit or delete your press release Oakland County Criminal Defense Lawyer Paul J. Tafelski Discusses the Challenges of EtG Testing here
News-ID: 3837852 • Views: …
More Releases from ABNewswire
Suncheon Joins Global Conservation Leaders as South Korea's "Ecological Capital" …
Suncheon has emerged as South Korea's "Ecological Capital," joining the world's conservation leaders with a vision that unites environmental restoration and healing tourism.
Image: https://www.abnewswire.com/upload/2025/10/308ee6f9bf4c9e478e007c6089e0f02a.jpg
(Image: Flocks of hooded cranes descend over the golden reeds of Suncheonman Bay. Each autumn, the wetlands turn into a sanctuary for migratory birds-and for visitors seeking to witness one of Asia's most poetic encounters between nature and life. Photo courtesy of Suncheon City)
SUNCHEON, South Korea -…
Travel Packages to Peru - Early Bird Deals by Travel Agency Book and Vamonos: Di …
Image: https://www.abnewswire.com/upload/2025/10/c7ea28cc5f1df5a8d8ec4b0c90df4d36.jpg
Book and Vamonos, a specialist in Peruvian travel, is thrilled to announce a 15% Early Bird Discount on all 2026 Peru travel packages and Peru tours, valid for bookings made by December 31, 2025. These designed itineraries are crafted to make exploring Peru's ancient wonders, vibrant culture, and unparalleled cuisine effortless, authentic, and truly unforgettable. By planning their trip with Book and Vamonos [https://www.bookandvamonos.com/?utm_source=abnewswire&utm_medium=pr&utm_campaign=press_october_home], travelers can travel more and…
AI Accounting Framework Advances Toward Strategic Integration in Defense Finance …
Image: https://www.abnewswire.com/upload/2025/10/c1482d676cbbf477b0e163fd77e3ee9e.jpg
Kuala Lumpur - Following earlier announcements on the development of an AI-powered accounting platform for defense applications, the Southeast Asia-based collaboration led by Karunesh Kannu Singhania, Emily Ng, and Abhishek Agrawal has entered an advanced development phase. The project is focused on building a secure, modular accounting framework capable of supporting the growing complexity of financial oversight in high-security government and defense environments.
Evolving From Prototype to Strategic Platform
The initiative…
KNA Security Celebrates 1,000 Five-Star Reviews in Perth
Image: https://www.abnewswire.com/upload/2025/10/06db1c5cdafcf681a70529c6cd07237b.jpg
Perth, Western Australia - KNA Security is proud to announce a significant milestone. The company has received a total of one thousand five-star reviews across Facebook and Google [https://www.google.com/maps/place/KNA+Security/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x8a629f161b43d2b1?sa=X&ved=1t:2428&ictx=111]. This achievement reflects more than a decade and a half of dedicated service helping homeowners and businesses in Perth and beyond feel safer and more confident.
A West Australian Company with Deep Local Roots
KNA Security is West Australian owned and operated…
More Releases for EtG
New Jersey DUI Attorney Rachel Kugel Highlights Blood Alcohol Content Laws and E …
Newark, NJ - Rachel Kugel, a distinguished New Jersey DUI attorney and founder of The Kugel Law Firm (https://thekugellawfirm.com/new-jersey-etg-calculator/), is bringing attention to the role of Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) thresholds, EtG testing, and the use of BAC calculators in drunk driving cases. With New Jersey's DUI laws carrying serious penalties, including fines, license suspensions, and possible jail time, understanding how alcohol levels are measured is essential for drivers across…
Electronic Table Games (ETG) Market May See a Big Move | Scientific Games, Spint …
Advance Market Analytics published a new research publication on "Electronic Table Games (ETG) Market Insights, to 2028" with 232 pages and enriched with self-explained Tables and charts in presentable format. In the Study you will find new evolving Trends, Drivers, Restraints, Opportunities generated by targeting market associated stakeholders. The growth of the Electronic Table Games (ETG) market was mainly driven by the increasing R&D spending across the world.
Some of the…
Electronic Table Games (ETG) Market to See Huge Growth | Spintec, Interblock Gam …
Advance Market Analytics published a new research publication on "Electronic Table Games (ETG) Market Insights, to 2028" with 232 pages and enriched with self-explained Tables and charts in presentable format. In the Study you will find new evolving Trends, Drivers, Restraints, Opportunities generated by targeting market associated stakeholders. The growth of the Electronic Table Games (ETG) market was mainly driven by the increasing R&D spending across the world.
Some of…
What's Driving the Methane Analyzers Market Growth? AMETEK Process Instruments, …
A new research study has been presented by UpMarketResearch.com offering a comprehensive analysis on the Global Methane Analyzers Market where user can benefit from the complete market research report with all the required useful information about this market. The report discusses all major market aspects with expert opinion on current market status along with historic data. This market report is a detailed study on the growth, investment opportunities, market statistics,…
Workholding Market SWOT Analysis by Leading Key Players- ETG Workholding, Enerpa …
HTF MI released a new market study on Global Workholding Market with 100+ market data Tables, Pie Chat, Graphs & Figures spread through Pages and easy to understand detailed analysis. At present, the market is developing its presence. The Research report presents a complete assessment of the Market and contains a future trend, current growth factors, attentive opinions, facts, and industry validated market data. The research study provides estimates for…
Environment Health and Safety Market Trending | SAP SE, Enablon , ETG Management …
HTF MI released a new market study on Global Environment Health and Safety Market with 100+ market data Tables, Pie Chat, Graphs & Figures spread through Pages and easy to understand detailed analysis. At present, the market is developing its presence. The Research report presents a complete assessment of the Market and contains a future trend, current growth factors, attentive opinions, facts, and industry validated market data. The research study…
