The four types of evidence in Michigan criminal trials
A piece of evidence presented at a criminal trial does one of two things: help establish the defendant’s guilt or help create a reasonable doubt that the defendant is guilty. There are many types of evidence that the judge can allow the prosecutor or defense attorney to present to the jury. Michigan law groups evidence […]
Creepy clown social media post leads to criminal charges
It seems quite frequently there are reports of Michigan residents who attempt to make a joke and wind up facing criminal charges. The experience can be frightening and lead to some very serious penalties that carry long-lasting consequences. When Michigan residents face allegations on criminal activity, they need to carefully consider what legal steps they […]
Should police departments engage in photo-shaming via Facebook?
When a woman allegedly struck six separate mailboxes before crashing onto a lawn and coming to rest among some trees, local police were on the case. When she turned out to have a live lizard inside her bra, they were amused. They posted a flippant account of the arrest on the departmental Facebook page. Many […]
Criminal defense strategies can protect your freedom
When a Michigan prosecutor chooses to file criminal charges against a person, they must prove the elements of the crimes they allege the suspect committed. In most cases, a prosecutor must show that a criminal defendant committed some prohibited act and did so with the requisite mindset. They must provide evidence to make these proofs, […]
What defenses are available to assault and battery charges?
Assault and battery charges stem from unwanted physical contact between individuals. Generally, the individual who initiates the contact against another will be charged with assault and battery, though the charges may apply to all parties involved depending upon the facts of the incident. In Michigan, there are a variety of defenses that a person may […]
Kalamazoo traffic stop results in serious criminal charges
When a motorist is pulled over by a police officer, things can escalate quickly. A minor traffic stop, for example, can quickly turn into a vehicle search and the discovery of troubling evidence. Individuals can then face significantly more serious charges that may lead to years behind bars and a ruined reputation. When an accused […]
The importance of the trial record for a Michigan criminal appeal
An individual who is convicted of a crime in Michigan has the right to appeal that conviction. Knowing how cases are heard on appeal is critical because the steps an accused individual takes during an initial case can shape the way his or case is resolved on appeal. Why is that? First of all, a […]
Michigan’s larceny penalties increase with subsequent offenses
Theft, also known as larceny, is a common crime in Michigan, and the penalties are often harsh. Generally speaking, the penalties imposed on an individual for a larceny conviction are dependent upon the value of the items stolen. However, there are other circumstances that could lead to enhanced penalties. Perhaps the most common of these […]
A felon who possesses a gun can be charged with a crime
There are many Michigan residents who own guns. This right is cherished by many, and respected by the law. But, those who have been convicted on a crime may find themselves in hot water again if they fail to pay attention to the gun laws as they relate to those who are convicted of crimes. […]
Challenging the elements of felony crimes in Michigan
There are a large number of felonies recognized under Michigan law, any one of which can turn a Michigan resident’s life upside down. A felony criminal record can cause an individual to lose a job, struggle to find other employment, be turned down for apartment leases and even be denied financial aid for a college […]
