Criminal Defense Attorneys
If you have been arrested, you need an experienced Lansing criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to make sure your rights are respected and that your case is properly investigated by a lawyer.
For a Criminal Defense Attorney who knows the law, knows the courts, and knows how to aggressively represent his clients, call or contact the law firm of Foster & Harmon P.C. in East Lansing MI.
Our Lansing criminal defense attorneys have handled a wide range of criminal cases, including all felonies & misdemeanors, traffic violations, drunk driving, license restoration & drug forfeitures.
Felonies & Misdemeanors
In Michigan, a felony is defined as a crime for which the potential punishment carries greater than one year in county jail. Felonies can be capital in nature (i.e., life imprisonment), can carry a statutory maximum in prison (i.e., 10 years), or can function as a "high-court misdemeanor" (i.e., 2 year maximum). If you are charged with a felony, your case will begin with an arraignment—which is held either in jail or via a "self-surrender." Then, you are entitled to a preliminary examination, where the prosecutor is required to prove your guilt to send your case to trial. Our attorneys at Foster & Harmon have handled hundreds of preliminary examinations for virtually every felony charge imaginable, and would be glad to review your case to see if your case might be dismissed at this early stage. Our attorneys and legal staff are dedicated to helping you through this stressful time.
In contrast, a misdemeanor is a crime for which the maximum punishment is one year in county jail. Put simply, misdemeanor offenses do not carry the threat of prison. They range from low-level misdemeanors (trespass, retail fraud) to crimes of violence (domestic violence, aggravated assault). Generally, you will either be arrested for a misdemeanor or sent a notice to appear at district court. On misdemeanor offenses, there is no preliminary examination; so many times the prosecution will proceed on the basis of the police report alone. This can be extraordinarily frustrating, especially if you believe the report is false or misleading. Your attorney may be the only person fighting for your position. If you have been sent a notice to appear, investigated or arrested for a misdemeanor, our lawyers will be glad to help.
In short, both felony and misdemeanor charges can take away your freedom, and can be expensive, stressful and embarrassing for your family and you. If you want to protect yourself, and need someone who will stand up and fight, we will be glad to talk to you. We have the experience, desire and skill to handle your criminal charge. If you have been charged with a felony or misdemeanor call us today receive a free initial consultation at 517.337.4600.