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Skilled Defense For Violent Crime Charges In Michigan

Violent crimes encompass a wide range of criminal offenses, including those that involve the risk of injury or death. Illegal use of weapons or threatening violent behavior all count as types of violent crime. Michigan is especially tough on these types of offenders and tends to punish them more severely than those who are convicted of non-violent crimes like embezzlement and fraud.

When a violent crime is alleged, it is the prosecutor’s job to represent the victim and build their case. Police, prosecutors, and judges are extremely serious when it comes to these types of charges and speaking with anyone before consulting a lawyer could have serious repercussions. It’s important that you understand the gravity of the situation and take all necessary steps to protect your rights.

Examples Of Crimes Of Violence

 Some of the most commonly charged violent crimes in Michigan include:

  • Murder
  • Manslaughter
  • Armed robbery
  • Assault with intent to murder (attempted murder)
  • Assault with intent to do great bodily harm
  • Domestic violence
  • Assault
  • Assault with a deadly weapon
  • Gun charges
  • Arson
  • Kidnapping

This is not a complete list. Violent crimes are among the most serious that exist under Michigan law and are the most likely to result in jail or prison time if there is a conviction. Being convicted of a violent crime can have grave consequences.

Consequences Of Violent Crime Convictions

Being convicted of a violent crime can have grave consequences. Not only could you face jail or prison time, depending on the type of charges and the circumstances of your case, but you could also be put on probation. This would require additional rules such as abstaining from alcohol or drugs, and the violation of which could send you to jail for up to the maximum of the original charge. You may also be ordered by court to pay restitution to the victim for medical bills, property loss and damage, counseling fees, or other related costs – with a failure to do so resulting in possible jail time. Additionally, court fines can reach into the hundreds for misdemeanors and thousands for felonies.

Unfortunately, a felony conviction can have other far-reaching consequences. It can lead to the denial of basic rights such as the right to vote and own firearms, as well as barriers to job opportunities and housing. Finally, if you are a professional such as a doctor, lawyer or anyone with a state license, your livelihood is at risk with a violent crime charge due to potential job loss and license suspension or revocation.

Defenses In A Violent Crime Case

To be found guilty of a violent crime, the prosecutor must prove several elements, including your presence at the crime scene, an intent to commit violence, and that any contact made was unjustified. It is important to note that simply making physical contact or attempting it does not constitute a violent crime. The intention behind the action is key and can be determined in many ways. Additionally, if you were acting in self-defense, that can protect you from a violent crime conviction.

Physical evidence and statement evidence are subject to Constitutional review and can be suppressed from evidence if a judge determines that the evidence was obtained illegally. If the police violated your Constitutional rights, then you can file a motion to have that evidence potentially disallowed from being used against you.

Selecting The Right Attorney Does Matter

When facing violent crime charges, you need to be sure to do your research and ask any prospective attorneys about their level of experience with similar cases. Some attorneys may advise their clients to plead guilty and accept the consequences – but this is often a mistake. There may be viable defenses that could lead to a dismissal of charges or excluding prejudicial evidence.

With the prospect of prison and a felony record, you need an attorney who will explore every possible defense before engaging in plea negotiations. Our attorneys are trial lawyers who are prepared to go to court to fight the charges and make the government prove its case.

We have had many successful outcomes for clients who came to us after consulting with an inexperienced attorney that merely wanted them to plead guilty. Make sure you have all the facts before deciding who should represent you.

We Have Experience With Violent Crime Defense

Our attorneys have obtained dismissals, acquittals and other favorable outcomes for clients charged with very serious felonies. We can’t promise a particular result in your case, but we can promise to turn over every stone in your defense and fiercely protect your rights throughout the process.

if you or a loved one is accused of a violent felony, arrange a free consultation by calling our Traverse City law office at 231-735-8575, or contact us online.