Grand Rapids Destruction of Property Lawyers

If you have been charged or believe you may soon be charged with malicious destruction of property in Michigan, call David G. Moore, Attorney at Law, right away. When our lawyers have the opportunity to come on board in a case such as a vandalism defense matter, they are often able to work out a resolution outside of the realm of criminal prosecution. Restitution and similar solutions sometimes enable a suspect to avoid criminal penalties.

Examples Of Willful And Malicious Destruction

Charges of willful and malicious destruction of property often mean that something like the following has allegedly taken place:

• Juvenile pranks
• Smashing windows
• Knocking over portable toilets
• Marking a building or fence with graffiti

Suspects in cases of willful and malicious destruction often tend to fall within one of these descriptions:

• Young (too young to think of consequences, perhaps)
• Bored, angry, mentally ill or in pursuit of revenge
• Knowledgeable about an area where a property damage has occurred

A conviction on charges of willful and malicious destruction of property may be at the misdemeanor or felony level, depending on the amount of property involved and the extent of the damage.

Michigan Malicious Destruction of Property Laws

Malicious destruction of property is a serious offense in Michigan, carrying potentially severe consequences. Understanding the nuances of this charge is crucial for those facing accusations or seeking to protect their rights.

Definition Under Michigan Law

Michigan law defines malicious destruction of property as intentionally damaging, destroying, or tampering with someone else’s property without their consent. The key elements are:

1. The act was intentional
2. The property belonged to another person
3. The defendant did not have permission to damage the property

Severity and Penalties

The severity of the charge and potential penalties depend on the value of the property damaged:

• Less than $200: Misdemeanor, up to 93 days in jail and/or a fine up to $500 or 3 times the value of the property
• $200 to $1,000: Misdemeanor, up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine up to $2,000 or 3 times the value
• $1,000 to $20,000: Felony, up to 5 years in prison and/or a fine up to $10,000 or 3 times the value
• Over $20,000: Felony, up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine up to $15,000 or 3 times the value

Defenses

Common defenses against malicious destruction of property charges include:

1. Lack of intent (accidental damage)
2. Mistaken identity
3. Property owner’s consent
4. Insufficient evidence
5. Self-defense or defense of others

Long-term Consequences

Beyond immediate legal penalties, a conviction can lead to:

• Criminal record affecting employment opportunities
• Difficulty renting housing
• Loss of professional licenses
• Negative impact on child custody cases
• Reputational damage in the community

Importance of Legal Representation

Given the serious nature of malicious destruction of property charges in Michigan, it’s crucial to have experienced legal representation. A skilled attorney can:

• Investigate the circumstances of the alleged offense
• Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing
• Develop a strong defense strategy
• Protect your rights throughout the legal process
• Potentially have charges dismissed or reduced

If you’re facing charges of malicious destruction of property in Michigan, don’t hesitate to seek legal counsel. The right attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Defense Against Arson Or Vandalism Charges

If we serve as your legal advocates after an arrest on charges of willful and malicious destruction of property, we are prepared to work hard in your defense. We want to see you move past this difficult situation with as little long-term damage as possible.

Contact us online or call our office at (269) 808-8007 to schedule a free initial consultation with a lawyer.