Rely On Our Strength And Reputation In Criminal Defense
Last updated on July 8, 2024
Being charged with a violent crime is a serious matter. Even if it is your first offense, you can face harsh penalties and consequences if you are convicted. Don’t try to handle this on your own – you need a violent crimes defense lawyer who is committed to protecting your rights.
At Standard & Berry, PLLC, in Grand Rapids, we offer real-world criminal defense from lawyers dedicated to preserving your rights and freedom. People count on us to get them through difficult situations while also looking to the future and minimizing consequences. Don’t wait. Talk to us today to find out how we can help.
Our Approach To Criminal Defense
It’s understandable that you want to stay out of jail or avoid a lengthy prison sentence, depending on your case. We take that seriously and work hard to find solutions that will achieve that goal. We don’t promise outcomes in any case, but we are committed to seeking a favorable result given the circumstances of the case, evidence and other details. This varies in every case, so let’s talk about what might be possible for you in a case that involves:
- Domestic violence
- Assault and battery
- Aggravated assault
- Stalking
In Michigan, these types of crimes are prosecuted aggressively by the state. Having defended so many people, we have a good sense of the issues you may face such as illegal search and seizure, being overcharged for a crime you did not commit, not meeting the burden of proof, problems with collecting evidence, police lineups and witness identification, mistaken identity and more. Or, you may have a case of self-defense. These are all things we will examine when we review the case against you.
Penalties For Violent Crimes In Michigan
Michigan imposes strict penalties for violent crimes to deter criminal actions and uphold public safety. These severe penalties can change the lives of those accused. This makes the stakes high in any criminal case.
The state’s legal system categorizes violent crimes based on their severity. Each category carries its own set of penalties:
- Assault and battery: The penalties for assault and battery depend on the severity of any resulting injury and whether the incident involved a weapon. A simple assault and battery might result in 93 days in jail and a $500 fine, whereas aggravated assault and battery could lead to a $1,000 fine and up to one year in jail.
- Aggravated assault: A misdemeanor charge of aggravated assault can lead to up to one year in jail and $1,000 in fines. If the assault includes an intent to cause significant bodily harm, the offender could face up to 10 years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
- Carjacking: A severe offense in Michigan, carjacking can possibly lead to life in prison. If the carjacking overlaps with crimes like kidnapping – driving away with an unknowing passenger, for example – the penalties could increase significantly.
- Child abuse: These crimes can vary in severity and penalties. Fourth-degree child abuse – willfully failing to provide for the child or reckless actions that injure a child – leads to up to one year in jail. The maximum punishment for first-degree child abuse, on the other hand, is life in prison.
- Domestic assault: The penalties for domestic violence grow with each offense. A first misdemeanor conviction might lead to 93 days in jail and a $500 fine, while a third felony conviction could result in up to five years in jail and a $5,000 fine. Penalties increase further if the incident led to serious injuries.
- Homicide: First-degree murder, which requires proof of premeditation, carries a life sentence. Second-degree murder can also lead to life in prison but does not require premeditation. Manslaughter could lead to up to 15 years in prison, depending on the situation.
- Robbery: Penalties for robbery can be harsh, with up to 15 years in prison for general robbery. Armed robbery could result in a life sentence.
Without skilled legal representation, defendants may struggle to challenge the charges or defend themselves effectively. As a result, they may face the harshest of these penalties.
Given the gravity of these consequences, the support of an experienced attorney is essential for anyone accused of a violent crime in Michigan. A competent lawyer can handle the complexities of the legal system and strive for the best outcome, possibly reducing the charges or seeking alternative sentencing.
Don’t Give Up – Let’s Talk About Your Charges
This is a difficult time, but with an attorney’s help, you can move forward. We will guide you through every step of the process and explain your options so you can make a good decision. Just call us at 616-622-3064 or contact us online today.