Birmingham

Anyone who has ever faced a criminal charge in Birmingham, no matter the type, will likely attest to the profound stress, strain, and anxiety the situation produced. Considering the potential loss of liberty, financial burdens, job losses, and social stigma that can all result from a conviction, an individual should not hesitate before consulting a Birmingham criminal lawyer for help building a robust defense.

Depending on the specific allegations involved, mere allegations of a crime can be enough to cause permanent damage to relationships, reputations, and future prospects. Because of all of these facts, a criminal charge is never something to be taken lightly, and a vigorous legal defense by an experienced criminal attorney in Birmingham is critical.

Enlisting the help of a Birmingham criminal lawyer is often the best way to boost your chances of having charges reduced or dismissed or, in the alternative, limiting the sanctions that will ultimately be imposed. To learn more or discuss what steps you should take, consult with an experienced Michigan criminal lawyer today. En Español.

Misdemeanors vs. Felonies in Birmingham

The Michigan Penal Code sets out a lengthy list of criminal offenses as well as possible penalties for those convicted of them. It is important to note that these provisions are expansive in nature and are characterized by numerous distinctions with which any criminal defendant should familiarize themselves.

As is the case in most other jurisdictions, crimes in Birmingham, Michigan are divided into misdemeanor and felony offenses, the available sanctions for which can vary substantially by Michigan law.

Misdemeanors involve acts that are considered less serious than those that carry felony charges, and the possible jail time for such offenses is typically a year or less, with monetary fines no greater than $1,000. To properly defend against such severe penalties, an individual should not hesitate before contacting a criminal attorney in Birmingham, Michigan.

Felony Offenses

By contrast, felonies are very serious crimes which carry penalties that can produce a lifetime of harm not just for those convicted of them, but also their entire families. In Birmingham, Michigan, felonies are divided into a series of classes by the law which signify the gravity of the offense and the potential sanctions.

Terms of incarceration for felonies up to and including life sentences are possible in some cases, as are massive monetary fines, loss of employment, and a whole host of other damaging ripple effects.

Anyone facing a felony charge in Michigan owes it to themselves and their loved ones to secure the help of a seasoned criminal attorney in Birmingham to help lessen any potential consequences.

Commonly-Charged Criminal Offenses

As previously, stated, Michigan's criminal statutes explicate the elements and potential punishments for a wide array of offenses, though some of the more commonly-lodged charges in Michigan courts that warrant the services of a Birmingham criminal attorney include:

• Assault and battery
• Homicide
• Criminal sexual conduct
• Drug-related offenses
• Gun crimes
• Driving while intoxicated

What Should I Do If I've Been Charged With a Crime in Birmingham, Michigan?

Being charged with any type of crime in Birmingham, Michigan, is a serious event. Even if you know you're innocent, facing criminal charges can be scary, and the potential negative outcomes if you're convicted have long-lasting impacts on your freedom and future. That's why it's important to ensure you maximize your resources for a strong defense strategy.

If you're arrested or charged with a crime or someone you love has been accused of a crime, a proactive approach is important. By getting in touch with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible, you can get guidance about your case and ensure someone is working on your behalf to protect your rights, gather evidence on your behalf and build a defense strategy to help support positive outcomes.

Types of Criminal Cases We Defend in Birmingham, Michigan

At the Barone Defense Firm, we work with clients to build strong defense strategies in cases in a variety of scenarios, including:

• DUI/DWI/OWI defense: Whether you have failed a field sobriety test or are facing a driving while intoxicated charge, we can help. We protect your rights and support you throughout your case.
• Firearm and self-defense cases: Our team is knowledgeable about firearm and self-defense laws in the state. We represent clients who are charged with gun crimes that involve self-defense or other firearms crimes.
• Sex crimes defense: We also represent clients who are dealing with a variety of sex crime allegations, including sexual assault.

The Urgency of Securing a Birmingham Criminal Lawyer

Just because allegations of criminal acts have been made does not mean that an accused party must raise their hands in defeat. Every defendant is entitled to a vigorous legal defense by a knowledgeable Birmingham criminal lawyer that highlights weaknesses in the prosecution's case, attacks unconstitutional searches and seizures, and employs a number of other techniques designed to preserve everyone's right to fairness under the law.

However, time truly is of the essence when it comes to preserving and marshaling key evidence and crafting effective arguments.

Whether an individual is facing a misdemeanor charge or is accused of a felony offense under Michigan law, the potential ramifications of a conviction cannot be overstated. Lengthy incarceration, costly fines, cumbersome periods of probationary supervision, employment loss, license revocations and other devastating consequences can all mount, making a prosperous future extremely difficult to achieve.

If you would like to learn more about how a criminal lawyer in Birmingham, Michigan can fight to safeguard your rights as well as your freedom, contact us today.

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