Major violent crimes that fall under this category of offenses include – but are not limited to – assault and battery, domestic violence, gang violence, and more. If you are facing one or more of these charges, then you are well advised to obtain a Southfield violent crimes lawyer to stand up for your rights and put together a cohesive defense in your case.
Due to the nature of these offenses, these crimes are prosecuted and punished severely in Michigan. The sentences range far and wide, depending on various factors such as the type of offense, the victim’s vulnerability, and your criminal history. As a defendant convicted of a violent crime you may also face lengthy probation periods, fines, supervised release conditions, and other consequences.
Southfield criminal defense attorney Maurice Davis has years of experience which he is ready to put to work for you. If you are facing a dire violent crimes charge, you need a professional legal advocate who knows how the prosecution works. As a former prosecutor, attorney Davis can use his experience to negotiate effectively for reduced charges or provide you with aggressive representation in court.
Call Davis Law Group today at (313) 818-3238 or contact us online.
Violent Crimes in Southfield, MI
While many assume violent crimes to include only manslaughter and murder, other offenses qualify as violent crimes in the state of Michigan. These include:
Murder & Manslaughter
Often used interchangeably, it’s important to note that murder and manslaughter are two different offenses under Michigan law.
First-Degree Murder
Per Michigan Penal Code Section 750.316, you can be found guilty of first-degree murder if:
- You intentionally killed someone else by poisoning them; lying in wait; or through any other willful, deliberate, or pre-meditated means
- You committed the killing while you were committing arson, sexual misconduct, abuse of a child, major drug offenses, robbery and/or burglary, carjacking, kidnapping, unlawful imprisonment, or aggravated stalking
- The victim was a member of law enforcement who was on-the-job at the time of the killing
A conviction for this offense is punishable by life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Second-Degree Murder
Under Michigan Penal Code Section 750.317, all other instances of intentional killings are considered second-degree murder. A conviction for this offense brings with it a prison sentence of any length.
Manslaughter
To be convicted of voluntary manslaughter in Southfield, MI, a prosecutor needs to prove beyond a reasonable doubt, that you:
- Killed another individual in the heat of passion
- This passion was provoked by the victim
- There was not an adequate amount of time between the incitement and killing to get a hold of your emotions
For a prosecutor to find you guilty of involuntary manslaughter, they must prove:
- You killed someone else
- That death was caused by your recklessness or actions that would likely result in injury or death
- You knew, or reasonably should have known, that your actions could harm others
If you’re found guilty of either voluntary or involuntary manslaughter, you face up to 15 years in prison, and a fine reaching $7,500.
