An accusation of a criminal offense can potentially lead to life-altering consequences. The ins and outs of the criminal justice system require more than just being strategic in your approach; it also means fostering relationships with law enforcement, the prosecution, and the judge.
There may be instances where you and your accuser face each other or new evidence is discovered that harms your defense. If so, a Saginaw criminal defense attorney’s methodical approach may be beneficial.
The skilled legal team at White Law PLLC has years of experience handling the grunt work to lessen or clear criminal convictions. Rather than managing your misdemeanor on your own or risking your freedom with a public defender, take advantage of a free consultation session with us. Your interests are our top priority; learn how we fight to change the outcome of your case.
Legal Protection to Remember if Suspected of a Crime
Being a person of interest in a criminal investigation is a nerve-wracking experience. Most people assume that cooperating with the police is a sign of innocence while lawyering up implies that you’re guilty.
The following rights protect the innocent and guilty alike and can be used to protect yourself if you have been suspected or charged with a crime:
- Fourth Amendment: The Constitution protects your right to privacy by prohibiting unreasonable searches and seizures in the event of a criminal investigation. Without a search warrant, you can tell the authorities that you don’t give them permission to search your private property, including but not limited to your car, physical person, house, or additional properties that you own.
- Fifth Amendment: This amendment protects your ability to avoid incriminating yourself. If you are under arrest, you don’t have to speak to police without a criminal defense lawyer in Saginaw, and they can’t continue questioning once this request is made.
- Sixth Amendment: If you are a suspect or convicted of a crime, this amendment invokes your right to retain legal counsel. Authorities may imply that they are just having a conversation or tell you there is no need to get defensive, but hiring a Michigan defense attorney is not an implication of guilt.
Remember, it is your constitutional right to protect yourself with trusted legal advisors. Even if the police state that they have evidence, it is always best to let your attorney do the talking.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
Penalties for Misdemeanors vs. Felonies in Michigan
Your criminal charge, and how your penalty is served will be significantly influenced by who you choose to legally represent you. The skill of your Saginaw criminal defense lawyer will play a significant role in determining the penalties for a misdemeanor or felony offense under Michigan law, but the differences are as follows:
Misdemeanors
Misdemeanor crimes in Michigan fall into three categories: those that carry a maximum sentence of 93 days in jail, those that carry a maximum sentence of one year in jail, and high court misdemeanors that carry a maximum sentence of two years in prison.
Felonies
Felonies are significant offenses in Michigan that carry sentences of more than a year in jail. Categories A through H are used to classify felonies, and the legal process for a felony in Michigan is a bit more extensive. You won’t be able to vote, carry a gun, or obtain or maintain a professional license if you have a felony.
We know how to get our clients the results they need in the toughest legal arenas.
Benefits of Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Criminal defense attorneys stay current with all laws and policies since they work in the field every day. We are well-connected, knowledgeable, and skilled at comprehending your charges and any potential defenses that might go unnoticed. We want you to resume your regular life as quickly as possible and offer the following benefits:
- Legal and emotional support: Any topic pertaining to your case can be discussed with a criminal defense attorney, as well as things that you may be hesitant or unwilling to disclose with your family. Picking an attorney with experience that you can trust is critical to the success of your case.
- Financial security: It can be expensive to hire a competent criminal defense attorney, but when you consider how much your attorney can negotiate the fees, penalties, lost wages, and other expenditures, it will ultimately cost you less money in the long run.
- Mutual interest: Lawyers are aware of the prosecutor’s and police’s attempts to deceive you into sabotaging your case or incurring a financial loss. We can provide you with advice on how to move forward to prevent risky situations.
We understand that you may be going through a difficult situation and we are ready to help however we can.
Schedule a Free Consultation to Discuss Your Legal Options Against Criminal Charges
Our criminal defense attorneys in Saginaw are committed to winning your case. If you or a loved one has been accused or is under suspicion of a crime, contact a member of our team to schedule an appointment to review your legal alternatives.
We’re Experienced. We Care.
We Exceed Client Expectations.
