rochester Misdemeanor Defense Attorney

Arrested for a Misdemeanor Offense in Oakland County?

There are many crimes that can be tried as either a misdemeanor or a felony offense, including DUI, drug crimes and violent crimes. Even when you believe you have only been accused of a misdemeanor, the prosecution may try to increase the charges to a felony-level crime. Similarly, your representation could get your offense lowered to a misdemeanor if there is enough compelling evidence to warrant such a change.

For these reasons, it is crucial that you retain a seasoned Michigan criminal defense lawyer who is prepared to safeguard your rights. At Freedman Law Group, our attorney has 59 combined years of experience and can provide personalized counsel throughout your case. We know that even misdemeanor offenses can hinder a person's future, which is why we fight tooth and nail to clear our clients' names and records.

Do not wait to get the legal support you deserve! Fill out a free case evaluation.

Penalties Involved in Misdemeanors Offenses

Although a lesser offense than a felony, a misdemeanor conviction may still result in serious penalties. There are numerous factors that will determine the extent of the penalties you face, including the intent behind the offense, whether any injuries took place, the value of property or goods involved, the type of offense, and the defendant's criminal record, if any.

Depending on those factors, you could face the following types of penalties:

• No more than a year in jail
• Heavy fines and fees
• Community service
• Driver's license suspension
• Alcohol or drug treatment
• Probation

Certain misdemeanor crimes will be penalized differently, depending on the factors involved. For example, you could face much more serious penalties for misdemeanor assault than you would for misdemeanor drug possession. Assault can bring up to $1,000 in fines and up to 1 year behind bars. Still, these penalties are much less severe than the ones an individual may face for felony assault.

Classes of Misdemeanors in Michigan

In Michigan, there are three different classes of misdemeanors. Depending on the severity of your offense, you will face punishment under a certain level of misdemeanor. These include the following classes and associated penalties:

• Misdemeanors punishable by up to 93 days in jail
• Misdemeanors punishable by up to 1 year in jail
• High court misdemeanors, which carry up to 2 years in jail and $2,000 in fines

With more penalties than regular misdemeanor offenses normally bring, high court misdemeanors are very similar to felonies, but are reserved for specific crimes such as indecent exposure and negligent vehicular homicide. Fortunately, they still only show up on a record as a misdemeanor.

Don't Wait—Get Representation Today

Our experienced attorney at the Freedman Law Group is here to help defend you against misdemeanor accusations. Your initial case evaluation with one of our criminal defense lawyer in Michigan is completely free of charge.