Michigan Felony Charges Attorney

At Goldman & Associates Law Firm, we understand the complexities of the American criminal justice system, especially when it comes to understanding the differences between various types of crimes. One of the most serious categories is a felony. Michigan Felony Charges stands out due to its severity and the consequences it brings.

In Michigan, felony charges, like those our firm frequently handles, are those offenses that may lead to more than a year in prison. Even if someone receives a lighter sentence, like probation or less than a year in jail, it counts as a felony if the possible punishment could exceed a year.

What Is a Felony?

A felony is a major crime. It’s more serious than misdemeanors or infractions. Someone convicted of a felony faces a prison sentence of more than a year. Unlike smaller crimes, where you might spend time in a local jail, felonies often mean going to a bigger, state or federal prison.

In Michigan, authorities take crimes like burglary very seriously. Michigan burglary crimes, handled by experienced attorneys like those at Goldman & Associates Law Firm, require a deep understanding of the law. Burglary, entering a building illegally to steal or commit another crime, is just one example of a felony.

Why Does It Matter?

Knowing the difference between a felony and other crimes is crucial. It affects everything from the trial to the punishment. For someone facing felony charges, getting the right legal help is key. That’s where our expertise at Goldman & Associates Law Firm comes in. We guide our clients through the challenging legal process, ensuring they understand their rights and options.

How Does a Felony Differ from Other Types of Crimes?

Felonies, like Michigan Burglary Crimes, are more serious than misdemeanors or infractions. When charged with a felony, authorities will likely arrest you immediately, and you may have to post bail to leave jail. This isn’t usually the case with lesser crimes. Felonies can have harsh penalties, including very high fines or even the death penalty in some places, which misdemeanors don’t. They also affect your life long-term. A felony on your record can stop you from voting, holding certain jobs, or owning a gun.

For felonies, the legal process can be more complex. Often, especially in federal cases, a grand jury decides if there’s enough evidence to take the case to trial. Misdemeanors don’t require this process. Also, if you can’t afford a lawyer for a felony charge, the court will usually give you one for free. This might not happen with lesser charges. In short, felonies are a big deal with more severe consequences and a more complicated legal process compared to other crimes.

What Crimes in Michigan charged as Felony Charges?

At Goldman & Associates Law Firm, we understand the importance of these charges and the impact they have on our clients’ lives. Felonies, including violent crimes like first-degree murder and manslaughter, receive extremely serious treatment. Robbery, defined as committing theft through force or threats, also belongs to this severe category.

A significant focus is on Michigan Burglary Crimes, where illegally entering a building to commit theft is a major concern. This type of crime, along with serious sexual offenses like rape and child molestation, demands a skilled legal defense. Authorities actively and aggressively prosecute drug-related felonies, which include the manufacturing, distribution, and trafficking of controlled substances. Property crimes, ranging from arson to grand theft, and white-collar crimes like fraud and embezzlement, are other examples of felonies that require expert legal attention.

At Goldman & Associates Law Firm, our team actively develops strong defense strategies to protect those facing serious charges in Michigan. Understanding your rights and the legal intricacies of such charges is our top priority.

Can the Same Criminal Act Be Prosecuted as a Misdemeanor or a Felony?

In Michigan, criminal acts can sometimes blur the lines between a misdemeanor and a felony. At Goldman & Associates Law Firm, we understand these complexities and are here to guide you through them.

For instance, a repeat offender may face a felony charge instead of a misdemeanor. This is especially common in cases like repeated DUI/DWI offenses. Moreover, the nature of the victim can elevate a crime. If the victim is a minor, has mental challenges, or is a public official, what might usually be a misdemeanor could become a felony.

Another key factor is the severity of the act. Take assault, for example. A simple assault usually remains a misdemeanor, but it turns into a felony if it involves a weapon. This change hinges on whether the actions demonstrate a disregard for human life or qualify as aggravated.