You’re likely wondering if you’ll have to go to jail, and what will happen to your family or your job if you are incarcerated. You’re probably also wondering how you can fight the charge and convince a jury or a judge that you didn’t commit the crime. Or you may be wondering if there are other options like probation, or if it’s possible to work out a plea bargain with the prosecutor in your case.
Criminal charges are serious matters, even when they’re misdemeanors. A first offense for many crimes can result in months in jail — or years if it’s a felony. Repeat offenders face even more penalties. Depending on the nature of your charge, some of the consequences you might experience if you’re convicted of a criminal charge in Michigan include:
- Being sent to jail or prison
- Being placed on probation
- Being ordered to complete alcohol or substance abuse treatment
- Having to pay costly criminal fines, court costs, or restitution
- Losing your driver’s license
- Acquiring a permanent criminal record
- Losing your job or being denied employment when you apply for a job
- Being denied rental housing
- Losing or being denied a professional license, such as to work as a teacher, lawyer, nurse, doctor, pharmacists, or other licensed professional
- Changes to your immigration status, including denial of your application for an immigration visa, green card, or citizenship, and possible deportation
But with the right Detroit criminal defense lawyer in your corner, you may have a shot at getting the outcome you desire in your case. Every case is unique, and how your charge turns out will depend on a number of factors, including the facts and the evidence. However, the strength of the arguments made in your favor also may be a determining factor in the outcome of your charge — and an experienced Detroit criminal defense lawyer is in the best position to make those arguments on your behalf.
Skilled Michigan criminal defense lawyers may be able to convince prosecutors to drop the charges if the evidence is weak, or if your constitutional rights were violated during the police investigation or when you were arrested. Even if the evidence appears to be stacked against you, a good criminal defense lawyer may be able to convince a jury to interpret the facts in your favor and acquit you or may be able to negotiate with the prosecution to reduce your charge or convince a judge to be lenient.
