Can I Reduce A Criminal Charge Against Me?
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Learn more about criminal charges in Michigan.
If you have been accused of committing a crime in Michigan, the best possible outcome for you is to have those charges dropped or reduced significantly. If you’re facing criminal charges, there are several ways to reduce or eliminate them. It all starts with one easy step: selecting an active and astute criminal defense attorney who will fight for the best possible result in your favor. We have successfully reduced criminal charges throughout the state of Michigan.
Michigan’s Sentencing Guidelines for Reducing a Criminal Charge
If your charges are reduced, your penalties will also be less severe. The state of Michigan has put out guidelines to assist judges in determining the most appropriate sentences. The guidelines describe any additional instructions that judges are obliged to follow when assessing sentences depending on the type and classification of the offense for which somebody is convicted. The guidelines also outline the maximum punishments allowed by law.
Judges consider these criteria when deciding on a sentence, but have considerable room for discretion. That is why you should pick a lawyer who has a proven track record of success for his or her clients.
A judge will normally examine the following factors when deciding on a sentence:
- Pre-Sentencing Report;
- The law’s sentencing guidelines;
- If you have a previous criminal history;
- If the crime was committed with malice or intent, or if there were mitigating factors;
- Prosecutor’s stipulated recommendations or conditions as part of a plea bargain.
- How well you behaved in court (a defendant who is angry and rude may get a harsher sentence than someone who apologizes for his or her actions).
Making an Appeal To Reduce A Criminal Charge
If you believe your sentence was unfairly imposed, you may be entitled to reduce the criminal charge against you. Judges are supposed to be fair in their sentences, and the penalty should be appropriate to the offense.
If any of the following circumstances are met, a sentence may be appealed:
- It was not carried out following Michigan law, which sets maximum punishments for various offenses;
- If a judge reviewed factors he was not allowed to consider (for example, past criminal background, which might aggravate penalties); or
- If you had a plea bargain deal wherein the prosecutor claimed he or she would suggest a reduced sentence but subsequently fought for a harsher one
There are further instances in which you may be eligible to appeal a decision or sentence. It would be ideal if you contacted our lawyers to discuss your specific issue so that we could guide you on the appropriate legal approach.
Our Michigan Criminal Defense Attorneys Are Ready to Defend Your Rights
If you feel your sentence was disproportionate, the Michigan criminal attorneys at Goldman & Associates can assist you. Our attorneys are familiar with the sentencing criteria that judges are expected to follow, and if your sentence was excessive, we provide complete post-conviction legal services to assist you in reducing a criminal charge against you. Contact us or set an appointment today.