Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you were charged with a crime in the Detroit-area, you must fight your charges in court if you hope to avoid the hefty penalties that accompany a conviction. A criminal defense attorney in Oakland County can support you through the legal process while working hard to keep your record clean.

It’s easy to get caught up with the wrong crowd in the Detroit area and make mistakes that you later regret. Maybe you were hanging with friends when they convinced you to try a new drug. Maybe someone started a fight and you were forced to defend yourself. Whatever the case may be, it’s never a good situation when the Detroit police arrive and they don’t allow you to explain.

When you’re charged with a crime in Detroit, you’re not automatically convicted of a crime. But, you will need to go to court to fight your charges. If you want the best chance of avoiding a conviction, you should speak to a Detroit criminal defense lawyer.

At Schwartz Law Group, we understand that Detroit crimes come with a large gray area. Things happen and people deserve the chance to explain themselves. We can use our expertise to negotiate on your behalf in court, and we’ll work hard to get your charges reduced or dismissed.

Criminal Charges You May Face in Metro-Detroit

There are various crimes the police can charge you with, but some common criminal charges in Michigan include:

• Driving under the influence (DUI) or operating while intoxicated (OWI)
• Drug-related crimes such as drug possession, drug trafficking, drug manufacturing, and drug distribution
• Assault and battery charges
• Sex crimes including criminal sexual conduct, solicitation, and possession of child pornography
• White collar crimes, including embezzlement, mail and wire fraud, and insurance fraud.

These criminal charges in Detroit can result in significant penalties if you’re convicted. Aside from the penalties you may face, a criminal conviction can have a lasting effect on your life. If you want to avoid having a criminal record and a permanent mark on your reputation, you should speak with a criminal defense lawyer in Detroit about your case.

Penalties Resulting from a Criminal Conviction in Michigan

Although penalties for Detroit crimes will vary based on the crime and any specific circumstances related to the crime, there are expected penalties outlined for an array of first-offense convictions.

For example, if you’re charged with a first-offense DUI or OWI or simple assault and battery, you can expect to spend up to 93 days in jail, and pay up to $500 in fines. Drug possession penalties vary based on the type and amount of drug in your possession.

If you’re found in possession of less than 50 grams of a schedule I or II substance, you’ll be charged with a felony and may have to spend up to four years in prison and pay up to $25,000 in fines. Alternatively, sex crimes are some of the most severe crimes in Michigan. If you’re convicted of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, for example, you may spend up to life in prison for your misdeeds.

Defense Strategies for Fighting Your Criminal Case

Defense strategies you can use to fight your Detroit criminal case may include challenging the evidence brought against you by the plaintiff.

Entrapment is another defense you can use if you believe the Detroit police enticed you to commit the crime in question. Your Detroit criminal defense attorney will assess the details of your crime and your arrest to determine the best defense for your case.

Understanding the Concept of Reasonable Doubt

It’s important to understand that you don’t necessarily need to prove your innocence when going to trial for your Detroit criminal case. You must, however, place reasonable doubt in the minds of the jury. Your legal team can use counter-evidence and witness testimonies to weaken the argument of the prosecution.

Any factors that strengthen your defense and make the jury question your motive, the severity of the charge, or whether you committed the crime at all can be helpful. The jury can’t convict you of a crime unless they believe you’re guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If the jury has the slightest belief that you’re innocent, then you’ll have a strong chance of receiving a not guilty verdict.

Criminal Defense FAQ

Getting charged with a crime in the Metro Detroit area can be scary. When you don’t know what your future holds, you’ll likely have concerns about how the legal process will unfold.

At Schwartz Law Group, we offer consultations so you can address your questions before committing to representation. We’ve answered some frequently asked questions below for peace of mind and convenience.

What rights must the Detroit police read to me during my arrest?

The Detroit police must read you your Miranda rights when they arrest you. These rights include the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. The police will also inform you that anything you say can be held against you in court. If you can’t afford an attorney, one can be appointed for you.

Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor charge?

Although you aren’t ever required to have a lawyer for a criminal case in metro-Detroit, it’s always helpful to have an experienced representative negotiating for you in the courtroom. Misdemeanor charges may be less severe than felony charges, but they can still result in penalties and a lasting criminal record. If you hope to lessen your charges or avoid a conviction, having a lawyer is your best bet.

Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney

Criminal charges in the Detroit-area can be harsh. You may be innocent for the crime you were charged with or you may believe you deserve a lesser punishment. Whatever the case may be, our team at Schwartz Law Group can customize a defense strategy for you.

We’re experienced in handling criminal charges of all severity levels. We know how to navigate a courtroom, and you can feel confident fighting against the plaintiff when we’re on your side. To make the justice system function properly, everyone must receive a fair trial. Our job is to give you a fair trial and the strong defense you deserve.

It’s normal to feel scared when moving forward with your case, but when you have the support of a Detroit criminal defense lawyer from our firm, you can face your challenges head on. We take cases from around Michigan and the Metro-Detroit area including Canton, Novi, Warren, Livonia, St. Clair Shores, Sterling Heights, Dearborn Heights, and more.

If you’re ready to discuss your situation in greater detail with our defense team, fill out the contact form below or call 248-930-5019 to schedule a consultation.