Confronting Misdemeanor Offenses With Proven Criminal Defense Attorneys

Even though misdemeanor offenses are not as severe as felonies, they are still serious. Misdemeanor convictions can lead to significant consequences, such as fines, probation and jail time. They can impact your reputation, employment opportunities, professional licensure, immigration status and housing prospects. It’s important to understand the implications and take them seriously.

At The Boss Attorney, we are here to provide a robust defense against misdemeanor charges for clients throughout Oakland County, Wayne County and Macomb County. We are criminal defense attorneys who bring a wealth of experience and personal commitment to every case. We aim to inform and empower you throughout the legal process. With over 15 combined years of experience and a proven record in criminal defense, we are the allies you want on your side when the stakes are high. We provide free consultations and offer services in Spanish.

What Qualifies As A Misdemeanor In Michigan?

Under Michigan’s criminal code, as well as local ordinances, misdemeanors are crimes punishable by no more than one year in prison. They are less severe than felonies but still carry harsh potential penalties, such as jail time, probation, and hefty fines and court costs. They also come with the potential for immigration consequences, enhanced penalties for repeat offenders and driver’s license suspension. A conviction results in a criminal record that will show up on employment background checks and can hold you back in life.

Common misdemeanor offenses include:

• Domestic violence (misdemeanor-level)
• Retail fraud (shoplifting under a certain dollar amount)
• Drunk driving or drugged driving (DUI)
• Minor in possession of alcohol
• Disorderly conduct
• Assault and battery
• Trespassing
• Vandalism
• Drug possession

Understanding these classifications and their potential consequences is crucial when facing misdemeanor charges.

How We Can Assist In Fighting Misdemeanor Charges

We can guide you through every stage of the misdemeanor court process, from the arraignment to the sentencing hearing. We are criminal defense attorneys who are highly skilled in building strong defenses. We also consider alternative sentencing options, such as diversion programs and deferred sentences.

We strive to reduce the impact of misdemeanor charges, whether through misdemeanor plea bargains, misdemeanor probation, motions to dismiss, bench trials, jury trials and other avenues. For first-time offenders, we explore opportunities for 7411 deferrals (deferred sentences) in misdemeanor drug cases or conviction avoidance for young offenders under the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act.

Frequently Asked Questions About Misdemeanor Offenses

Facing misdemeanor charges can bring up many questions and concerns about the potential consequences and your options for moving forward. At The Boss Attorney, we believe in empowering our clients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. Below, we address some of the most common questions regarding misdemeanor offenses in Michigan.

How serious are misdemeanor charges in Michigan?

Misdemeanor charges in Michigan should not be underestimated. While they are less severe than felonies, they can still result in significant penalties that affect your life.

Misdemeanors are classified based on severity, such as 93-day misdemeanors and one-year misdemeanors. Penalties under the sentencing guidelines may include jail time, fines and misdemeanor probation. A conviction can also impact your employment, housing and personal reputation. It’s essential to take these charges seriously and seek guidance from experienced criminal defense attorneys to minimize the impact on your life.

Can a misdemeanor charge be expunged from my record in Oakland County?

Potentially, yes. Misdemeanor expungement is a legal process that allows you to clear your criminal record. Eligibility for expungement depends on factors such as the type of misdemeanor and the time that’s elapsed since the conviction. Typically, you must wait a certain period of time after completing your sentence, including any misdemeanor probation, before applying for expungement. As criminal defense attorneys, we can help you understand your eligibility and guide you through the process of restoring your record.

Will I go to jail for a first-time misdemeanor offense?

Jail time for a first-time misdemeanor offense depends on the specifics of the case and the severity of the charge. Factors such as the nature of the offense, your criminal history and the circumstances of the case all play a role.

In some cases, alternative sentencing options, such as a deferred sentence or probation, may be possible. During the district court arraignment and pretrial conference stages, we can work to negotiate favorable terms, potentially avoiding jail time. Our goal is minimizing the penalties, whether through a plea bargain, diversion program or trial.

Start Your Misdemeanor Defense With A Free Consultation

If you’re facing misdemeanor charges – whether this is your first offense or you have prior convictions – please contact our firm for a free consultation with a misdemeanor defense attorney. You can also reach us by phone at 586-900-9657. We have offices in Royal Oak.

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