Blog Category | Criminal defense

Putting all of your eggs in one basket and hoping you will be cleared of all charges might be nerve-wracking whether this is your first time facing criminal charges or if you are innocent but face a serious penalty. The help of a Michigan criminal defense attorney can allay your...

As Americans, the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution grants us all a certain level of freedom and privacy against unlawful search and seizure. On the other hand, their rights are not unlimited. However, there are some circumstances where law enforcement may search an individual’s home, vehicle, or other property...

Many people are unsure of what to do when they’re about to be arrested. The situation is likely to be frightening regardless of whether they have been arrested before. Likewise, few people know exactly what their rights are at that moment. If you’re about to be arrested, it helps to...

Does Drunk Driving Spike During Holidays? Drunk driving is a crime that does occur regularly, but often the number of arrests elevates during the holiday season. While this does happen due to more people going to holiday parties or eating out more often, the numbers also increase because law enforcement...

Being arrested for or charged with a criminal offense can be a frightening and frustrating experience, especially if it is your first time in this type of situation. In Michigan and the rest of the United States, crimes are broken down into two categories: misdemeanors and felonies.Although felonies are associated...

Former police officer Kim Potter is on trial for killing 20-year-old Daunte Wright during a traffic stop in 2020. Her case is an example of what may happen when police break the law. Keep reading to learn more. Background In April 2020, Potter, her partner, and Sgt. Mychal Johnson pulled...

Not having the ability to drive can significantly affect how you conduct your day-to-day life. Whether it’s commuting to work or school or driving to important appointments, your life is not the same without being able to drive. If you have been arrested for a DUI/OWI in Michigan, trying to...

Being stopped by the police can be an intimidating or frustrating experience. If you are uncertain about your rights or how to properly interact with the officer, a stop could turn into a hostile situation. While being stopped by the police is never an enjoyable experience, knowing your rights during...

Maintaining the responsibility of children is difficult enough, but what happens if your child is arrested for driving under the influence? Although you might feel hurt or even betrayed by your child, you may also feel the need to help them fix their mistake. The question is how. Our team...

Gun laws in Michigan are highly technical. The tiniest little nuance of exactly where a gun is or how it’s being carried will make the difference between the situation being legal or illegal. If you’ve been charged with having an illegally concealed weapon, what are your potential consequences, and how...

If you’re concerned about finding work after a criminal conviction, expungement may serve as a solution. What is expungement, and do you qualify? We explore these details and more in our blog below. Definition & Purpose of Expungement Expungement is the process by which your criminal record is permanently sealed...

If you were arrested for a criminal offense or accused of a serious traffic violation, you will be required to appear in court on a certain date. But what happens if you fail to appear (FTA) in court or attend a trial? In Michigan, missing a court date could result...

Probation Rules in Michigan Since probation is a privilege and not a right, it is important to treat it accordingly. Many judges sentence convicted offenders to probation as an alternative to incarceration. Not everyone is granted probation, though. Depending on the nature of the person’s offense, criminal history, medical history,...

Like other states, Michigan classifies controlled substances into five different schedules. These schedules will impact the severity of a convicted offender’s penalties and sentencing, which includes jail time and significant fines. Keep reading today’s blog to learn about some examples of drugs in particular schedules and the associated penalties for...

Sharing nude images through text messages, known as “sexting,” is quite popular among teenagers. However, taking and sending nude photos is illegal if the person in the picture is younger than 18. Even if a 17-year old is sending her 18-year old boyfriend nudes, he can still face charges. This...

Arrested for DUI in Michigan? If you are not familiar with the criminal justice process, you are not alone. Getting arrested for drunk driving is not something most people know how to handle. For many individuals, this is the first time that they ever had to deal with the law,...

Why Cops Let the Dogs Out Police dogs have the same job as police officers do, and that is to investigate and identify crimes. They must be loyal, strong, intelligent, instinctive and have an advanced sense of smell. Not every dog has these attributes nor the ability to identify certain...

Our Response to the Wrongful Conviction of Herbert Alford Attorney James White is representing Herbert Alford in a case that is making national headlines. What’s the backstory? In 2018, Alford was wrongly convicted of a second-degree murder that occurred in 2011. The shooting death of Michael Adams occurred in a...

In Michigan, depending on the substance and the crime being committed, there are varying degrees of penalties you may face if convicted. Drugs are classified into schedules. The drug’s schedule will depend on the amount of danger the drug presents to other people. The schedule will also outline what a...

What’s the first thing an officer will say when they pull you over (aside from license and registration): a trick question. From the moment you’re pulled over, an officer’s number one priority is to gather evidence and build a case against you. If you don’t think that’s true, keep reading...

News broke of a shooting at Oxford High School in Oxford, Michigan. Here’s what we know so far. What Happened A 15-year-old student opened fire on fellow students, killing three and injuring several others. Many wounded students are in critical condition with severe gunshot wounds. Police received the call and...

How are They Defined? “DUI” stands for driving under the influence of alcohol or some other substance. “DWI” stands for Driving While Intoxicated. In Michigan, this charge is known as “Operating While Intoxicated,” and you will be charged with this crime if you are found to have a blood alcohol...

In the first presidential debate, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump got into a heated argument over the topic of stop and frisk policies by law enforcement departments. Clinton claimed that stop and frisk has been ruled unconstitutional, while Trump argued that stop and frisk is both constitutional and effective. As...

In light of the tragedy at Oxford High School, many are debating whether parents can be held criminally responsible for their child’s actions. In the case of Ethan Crumbley’s parents, prosecutors say they should. Here’s what you should know. November 30, 2021 Ethan Crumbley, a 15-year-old student at Oxford High...

Whether you have been charged with assault and battery or even homicide in Michigan, acting in self-defense will exonerate you from being convicted. An experienced criminal defense attorney can review your case, determine if self-defense applies to your case, and ensure that your entire case gets dismissed. Contact the professionals...

Expungement allows a person charged with a crime to get a clean slate. However, Michigan is changing the expunction process which could affect many people in the criminal justice system. Keep reading for more information. What Is Expungement? Expungement is a process by which a person convicted of a crime...

Reasonable Suspicion vs. Probable Cause Michigan law enforcement officials must find “reasonable suspicion” and “probable cause” before detaining a person for questioning, searching a person or their property, obtaining a warrant, or making a lawful arrest. Although these two legal concepts have certain similarities, establishing each of them requires certain...

A Michigan woman was denied a protection order against her husband two weeks before she and her family were found dead in an apparent murder-suicide, court documents show. Her death is shining light on the need for protective orders. What Is a Personal Protection Order? A Personal Protection Order (PPO)...

The ongoing Larry Nassar sexual abuse case has been rife with controversy since its first day. In just a short amount of time, dozens of women have come forth to submit their own complaints, some of them dating back to 1999. As the case develops, more eyes are turning to...

Open Container Law in Michigan Under Michigan’s open container laws, an operator of a motor vehicle shall not transport or possess in the passenger area of the vehicle alcohol in a container that is open, uncapped, or had the seal broken. Transporting an open alcoholic container could result in criminal...

Larry Nassar, who worked at Michigan State University (MSU) for close to 20 years as a team physician, primarily for women’s gymnastics, is still being targeted by new accusations and sexual harassment lawsuits. Dozens of women have accused him of repeated incidents of sexual abuse over the course of several...

Cryptocurrency is all the rage among young investors. It allows investors to contribute to the blockchain’s pivotal technological advancement while making money. However, the things that make crypto great are also the things that make it risky. One couple took an unethical approach to cryptocurrency and stole billions. Here is...

The fall semester is underway and football season is in full swing. MSU students are indulging in beer pong, tailgating and the East Lansing bar scene – whether underage or not. Yet, everyone knows this is a generally accepted part of being a college. In fact, in 2013 alone, 8.7...

As the new semester begins and football season approaches, MSU students are indulging in beer pong, tailgating and the East Lansing bar scene - whether underage or not. Yet, everyone knows this is a generally accepted part of being a college. In fact, in 2013 alone, 8.7 million underage individuals...

In Michigan, legislation reducing penalties for minors caught with alcohol is one of the bills signed by Gov. Rick Snyder and Lt. Gov. Brian Calley in December. Senate Bills 332 and 333 – sponsored by state Sen. Rick Jones (R-Grand Ledge) – decreases first-time violations of the minor in possession...

In June 2020, a 15-year-old Michigan girl was incarcerated for violating her probation. The crime: not doing her schoolwork during the COVID-19 pandemic. She had been placed on probation in April 2020 for fighting with her mother and petty theft. The girl, Grace (her middle name), was the subject of...

The Michigan Supreme Court will no longer allow date of birth and other personal information to be part of publicly accessible records. Community members are concerned that this change will influence the employment process – here’s what you should know. January 1, 2022 For most employers across the U.S., background...

On October 10, 2019, a Senate panel passed a package of bipartisan bills—16 in total—that would raise the age at which juvenile offenders would be automatically treated as adults in Michigan. Currently, 17-year-olds are viewed as adults in the criminal justice system. The legislation would make the following changes: Juveniles...

Michigan legislators have passed the “Raise the Age” bill. Here’s what you should know. Aging Up This historic bill will raise the age limit for the adult criminal justice system. Previously, 17 year olds convicted of a crime would be tried as adults and could face prison time or worse....

The Michigan Secretary of State office released an update that they will stop releasing driving records for victims of violence to the news media. Here is what you should know. Media Secretary Jocelyn Benson’s office has announced that it will cease giving news outlets reports of driving records for victims...

In light of the Oxford school shooting, Michigan lawmakers are evaluating gun laws and debating whether to expand them. Here’s what you should know. Current Gun Regulations In MI, gun owners must follow several regulations regarding gun safety, licensing, registration, and use. To purchase a handgun, gun owners must obtain...

On October 31, 2019, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the “Raise the Age” plan, a multi-part bill that will enable minors who are 17 years of age to qualify as juveniles and go through the juvenile justice process, rather than the criminal justice system for adults. However, the law will...

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed a new law to expand the public’s access to the state’s child abuse registry. Keep reading for more information. The Child Abuse Registry In Michigan, those convicted of child abuse are added to a statewide registry that is accessible to law enforcement and the...

Sen. Jim Runestad’s legislation to penalize organized retail crime under the state’s racketeering statute was signed into law Thursday by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.“Criminals at the top of these organized mobs and rings will now be held accountable, not only for retail theft but also for coercing youth and other vulnerable...

The Michigan Supreme Court has agreed to take a second look at a bill that allows the court to collect money from poor criminal defendants. Here’s what you should know. Money, Money, Money Courts are permitted to charge lower-class offenders to pay for court fees and other overhead costs. It...

The Ingham County 30th Circuit Court offers Mental Health Court as an alternative to the typical criminal justice system. The goal of Mental Health Court, like other specialty court programs, is to try and address the root cause of a particular defendant’s behavior, as opposed to simply punishing them to...

While underage drinking in Michigan can result in serious consequences for a minor charged with an offense, there are certain situations that call for help regardless of the threat of legal consequences. If you or your friend consumes too much alcohol and needs medical attention, getting the necessary help is...

It’s More Than Just a Show Trial by Media is a Netflix original series featuring some of the most sensationalized, dramatic court trials of all time. Released on May 11th, this true crime docuseries highlights famous criminal cases spanning various offenses and how the media may have impacted their jury...

Grooming – the act of cultivating behavior to exploit a child. While the term has only recently entered the public lexicon, it has been an undercurrent of many criminal cases over the years. However, is grooming a crime? Grooming Defined Grooming or child grooming is the act of deliberately establishing...

For those of us who have been driving for years, operating a vehicle is almost like breathing. It’s easy to get distracted during your commute, but can distractions be a crime? What Counts as Distracted Driving? According to the Michigan State Police, there are three types of distraction: Visual Manual...

Don’t Smile, You’re on Camera Cameras in the courtroom is a widely debated topic due to its impacts on court cases. While it may serve as entertainment and an educational tool for many, those experiencing a life-changing court case on camera may say otherwise. Some of the most well-known cases...

When a person commits a crime, it is often a violation of state law. Defendants are typically arrested by state law enforcement and their cases will be handled by state prosecutors in state court. However, there are certain crimes involving federal or national issues, which can lead to federal charges....

Cyberbullying is a serious offense that is only growing more prevalent with the widespread use of technology and online social media platforms. In today’s blog, we discuss Michigan’s laws addressing cyberbullying, penalties upon conviction, and possible defenses against a charge. Michigan’s Cyberbullying Laws Cyberbullying is criminalized through Michigan’s general stalking...

Your Fight Is Our Fight Call Now Available 24/7 517-316-1195 Can You Transport Marijuana? If you are over the age of 21, you can transport 2.5 ounces or less of marijuana. Even though you can transport marijuana, you are still prohibited from ingesting the substance before operating any type of...

DUI (“driving under influence”) laws have become increasingly strict. Since the ‘90s, organizations like Mothers Against Drunk Driving started shining a bright light on drunk driving across the country, and it has since become a serious crime everywhere. These days, the crime is not strictly confined to alcohol use. “Driving...

Domestic violence is a serious charge, and the effect it has on your life can be enormous. Immediately, it can lead to fines or incarceration. It affects your criminal record, which impacts your ability to get work. In a divorce, domestic violence accusations may change the entire outcome. What Is...

Eastern Michigan University is mounting an investigation into two on-campus fraternities accused of sexual assault. Here’s what you should know. Jane and John Does Over two dozen cases of sexual assault have been brought against Delta Tau Delta and Alpha Sigma Phi for incidents in 2016. Students of EMU have...

Driving on a Suspended License in Michigan Michigan law makes it a crime to drive with a suspended or revoked license, and enforces what can be severe penalties upon conviction. However, the circumstances surrounding an arrest and allegation for DWLS/DWLR can play a significant role in determining the charges and...

Misdemeanors are serious charges. When you’ve been accused of a misdemeanor crime, it can impact your life heavily. If you’ve been charged with such a crime, you should seek the services of a skilled criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. What Is a Misdemeanor? In the U.S., misdemeanors are...

When you think about the holidays, you imagine getting together with loved ones, fancy dinners, gift exchanges, and being jolly all season long. Yet, this time of year is also associated with a significant rise in crime rates. We must all understand that one mistake or lapse of judgment can...

Penalties for OWI in Michigan If you have been arrested for an OWI in Michigan, a conviction can result in serious penalties. It may result in: Serving time in jail Paying expensive fines Losing the ability to drive for an extended period of time Also, having a criminal record can...

With the growing prevalence of technology and social media platforms connecting teenagers, a new arena has arisen for the spread of harmful material. Like many states, Michigan criminalizes the possession, creation, and dissemination of sexually explicit material to or involving minors under the age of 18. Keep reading today’s blog...

Can a Felon Vote in Michigan? One of the most important rights every American citizen has is the right to vote. Voting gives us a chance to voice our opinion, participate in our democracy, and hold elected officials accountable for their actions while in office. Many people who have been...

Your Diet May Get You Arrested Low-carb diets reportedly lead to health benefits such as weight loss and reduced blood sugar levels, but did you know that such diets can trick a DUI breath test into producing falsely high results? When you get pulled over on the suspicion of DUI,...

Introduced by Senator Jeff Irwin (D-Ann Arbor) last week, a bill would allow misdemeanor convictions involving low-level marijuana possession and use to be automatically expunged. The bill would affect approximately 235,000 Michigan residents. Rather than having to go to the court to seek expungement, changes to the Michigan State Police’s...

Two Trials, Same Goal You may have watched TV shows or movies portraying dramatic trials in which a powerful attorney stands in front of a jury and presents captivating, compelling evidence that proves their client’s innocence. To add, spectators in the room react by gasping, crying or expressing disapproval. These...

This Fun Fact Has Not-So-Fun Consequences You may be surprised to learn that it’s illegal to be drunk on a train in Michigan. This law was passed in 1913 yet it remains in effect today. The law specifically states: “No person shall while in an offensive state of intoxication enter...

As the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, that means one thing: it’s hunting season. While it’s a tradition to go out and spend time hunting with family or friends, it’s important to take the proper safety measures to avoid violating the law. Below are several tips to...

If you answer the phone and hear a recorded message instead of a live person, it’s a robocall. If you’re getting a lot of robocalls trying to sell you something, odds are the calls are illegal. Many are also probably scams. Here’s what you need to know about robocalls and...

Your Fourth Amendment right – the right to free from unlawful searches and seizures – is one of the most important rights you have, especially in terms of criminal law. Under the Fourth Amendment, law enforcement officers must have a valid justification for stopping you, searching you, and arresting you...

A Michigan OWI conviction results in serious penalties. A first-time offense leads to a jail sentence of up to 93 days, fines no more than $500, and license suspension for up to 180 days. However, there are certain “aggravating circumstances” that can increase the penalties drunk driving suspects face. The...

Learn more about the ABA Journal’s latest piece urging states to consider parole for youth offenders who are serving mandatory time. We’re Experienced. We Care.We Exceed Client Expectations. Call Now Available 24/7 517-316-1195

From shopping and performing work duties to sharing our lives on social media and keeping up with current events, the internet has become an essential part of our daily lives. However, the world wide web also provides various ways for criminals to take advantage of innocent, unsuspecting individuals. Prosecutors take...