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If you have been charged with a crime in Michigan, it is important to understand the criminal laws in Michigan. While each case is unique, understanding the specifics of the crime you are charged with and the potential consequences can help you make informed decisions about how to move forward with your defense. In this article, we will provide an overview of Michigan's criminal laws to help you better understand your situation. Criminal Law in Michigan Michigan's criminal laws are outlined in the Michigan Penal Code . The Penal Code covers a broad range of offenses, including assault, robbery, theft, drug offenses, homicide, and sexual assault. The penalties for these crimes vary widely depending on the severity of the crime and other factors. One important thing to note is that Michigan is a " three strikes " state. This means that if you are convicted of three felony offenses, you could face life in prison without the possibility of parole due to being a habitual offender. As a result, it is particularly important to understand the consequences of even minor criminal offenses, as they can have long-term implications for your future. Classification of Crimes In Michigan, crimes are classified as either misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanors are less serious offenses, such as driving under the influence, minor drug offenses, and disorderly conduct. Misdemeanors carry a maximum of one year in jail for certain offenses. Felonies, on the other hand, are more serious offenses such as homicide, sexual assault, and drug trafficking. Felonies generally carry much more severe penalties, including significant jail or prison time and fines. Sentencing Guidelines Michigan uses a set of sentencing guidelines to determine the penalties for felony criminal convictions. These guidelines take into account the severity of the crime, the defendant's prior criminal record, and other factors that may impact the defendant's sentence. The guidelines are advisory, which means that judges are not required to follow them, but they are often used as a starting point for determining the appropriate sentence. In addition to the sentencing guidelines, Michigan also has mandatory minimum sentences for some offenses. This means that, regardless of the specifics of your case, you will face a minimum amount of jail time if convicted of certain crimes. Defenses to Criminal Charges If you have been charged with a crime in Michigan, you have the right to mount a defense. There are several common defenses to criminal charges, including self-defense, lack of intent, and alibi. Self-defense is a common defense to assault charges. If you reasonably believed that you or someone else was in danger and acted in self-defense, you may be able to successfully argue that your actions were justified. Lack of intent is another common defense to criminal charges. If you can demonstrate that you did not intend to commit the crime you are charged with, you may be able to have the charges against you lowered or dismissed. Finally, if you can provide proof that you were somewhere else at the time of the crime, you may be able to argue an alibi defense. This can be particularly effective if you have eyewitness testimony or documentation to support your alibi. Conclusion Being charged with a crime is a stressful and difficult situation, but understanding Michigan's criminal laws and your rights as a defendant can help you make informed decisions about your defense. If you are facing criminal charges in Michigan, it is important to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights. Call us at My Michigan Legal today so we can help.

Drug charges are taken seriously in Michigan, and convictions can result in severe consequences, including jail time, fines, and damage to your reputation. If you or someone you know is facing drug charges in Michigan, it is essential to act swiftly and work with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help defend against these charges. In this article, we will discuss strategies and outcomes for defending against drug charges in Michigan. Strategies for Defending Against Drug Charges There are several strategies that a criminal defense attorney may use to defend against drug charges in Michigan. These strategies include challenging the legality of the search or seizure that led to the discovery of drugs, arguing that the drugs belong to someone else, and negotiating a plea bargain to reduce charges or penalties. Challenging the Legality of the Search or Seizure : If the search or seizure of drugs is in violation of the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, a criminal defense attorney can argue that the evidence should be suppressed. This could lead to the dismissal of the case or a reduction in the severity of the charges. Challenging the Possession of the Drugs : If the drugs were not found in the direct possession of the accused, then it may be argued that the drugs in question were not the Defendant’s. Additionally, it may be important to have the drugs retested to determine what the composition of the substance is. Negotiating a Plea Bargain : In some cases, negotiating a plea bargain may be the best option. A criminal defense attorney can work with the prosecutor to negotiate a deal that reduces charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea. This could reduce the length of the sentence or avoid lengthy court proceedings altogether. In some cases, it can lead to a dismissal of charges after a probationary period. Outcomes for Drug Charge Cases The outcome of a drug charge case in Michigan depends on several factors, including the type and quantity of drugs involved, the defendant's criminal history, and the defendant's personal circumstances. However, there are a few typical outcomes for drug charge cases in Michigan. Dismissal of the Case : In some cases, a drug charge case may be dismissed because of a lack of evidence or due to a legal reason. Legal reasons can include the suppression of evidence due to a bad search or a break in the chain of custody that renders the evidence inadmissible. Acquittal : If the prosecution cannot prove beyond a reasonable doubt at a trial that the defendant committed the alleged drug crime, the result may be an acquittal, which means the defendant is found not guilty. Plea Deal : If the defendant enters a guilty or no contest plea as part of a plea bargain, they will be convicted of the drug charges and may face reduced charges or penalties. If the defendant pleads guilty under a deferred sentence or first offender program, then a conviction can be avoided. Additional convictions can also be avoided through a plea deal. Trial Conviction : If the defendant is found guilty at trial, then they will be convicted of the drug charges and may face significant jail time, fines, and other penalties. Conclusion Drug charges can have severe consequences in Michigan, but there are strategies that a criminal defense attorney can use to defend against these charges. Whether it is challenging the legality of the search or seizure, arguing that the drugs belong to someone else, or negotiating a plea bargain, an experienced attorney can develop a suitable defense that gives you the best possible outcome for your case. If you or someone you know is facing drug charges in Michigan, it is essential to work closely with a criminal defense attorney who has experience with drug charges. They will help you understand your legal options and work with you to develop a defense that protects your rights and ensures the best possible outcome. Call us at My Michigan Legal today so we can help.