Grand Rapids Felony Lawyer

Facing Felony Charges in Michigan? Here's What You Need to Know

Felonies are the most serious criminal charges you can face in the state of Michigan. These are offenses that carry penalties of more than a year in county jail or in prison. If you have been charged with a felony in Grand Rapids, you need a qualified felony attorney. 

At Tanis Schultz, you will work with trial-tested legal professionals who have the experience and dedication necessary to help you fight for the best outcome. We understand the stress and confusion that you may be facing and are here to provide the guidance and support you need through this crisis.

Reach out to a Grand Rapids felony defense attorney at (616) 227-3737 to schedule a free, initial consultation.

Our Guarantee: If your license is not restored, your next hearing is free. 

Understanding How Felonies Are Charged in Michigan

Under Michigan law, felonies are classified into eight categories, with Class A being the most serious. Michigan also has created high crime misdemeanors, which are similar to felonies in that they carry two-year maximum jail sentences. Penalties for felonies vary depending on the class, any prior criminal history, and aggravating circumstances.

Felony crimes are charged and punished as follows:

• Class A felonies—such as murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and kidnapping—are punishable by any quantity of years up to life in prison
• Class B felonies—such as child pornography and second-degree arson—are punishable by up to 20 years in prison
• Class C felonies—such as manslaughter and robbery—are punishable by up to 15 years in prison
• Class D felonies—such as embezzlement or larceny of property valued at $20,000 or more—are punishable by up to 10 years in prison
• Class E felonies—such as first-degree shoplifting and carrying a gun—are punishable by up to 5 years in prison
• Class F felonies—such as marijuana possession with intent to deliver—are punishable by up to 4 years in prison
• Class G felonies—such as passing bad checks or second-offense domestic assault—are punishable by up to 2 years in prison
• Class H felonies are punishable by jail time, electronic monitoring, treatment, probation, or other alternatives

Felony convictions can also lead to fines as issued by the courts. They also result in a permanent criminal record that can impact your future ability to find employment, housing, or obtain educational financial aid. Strong legal representation is invaluable when facing any felony charge. At Tanis Schultz, you can benefit from our strong legal skills and extensive trial experience. Our attorneys will fight to protect your rights at every stage of the legal process.

What to Expect During a Felony Arraignment in Court

An arraignment in court for a felony is a formal court hearing where the defendant is informed of the charges against them and enters a plea.

During the arraignment, the defendant is brought before a judge and read the charges against them. The judge will also explain the defendant's legal rights, such as the right to an attorney and the right to a jury trial. The defendant will then have the opportunity to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.

• If the defendant enters a plea of guilty or no contest, the specific case may proceed to sentencing, where the judge will determine the appropriate penalty for the offense. 
• If the defendant enters a plea of not guilty, the case will proceed to a pre-trial hearing, where the prosecutor and defense attorney will discuss the details and potentially negotiate a plea bargain.

It is vital to note that an arraignment is just the first step in the criminal justice process for a felony offense. The case may proceed to trial, or the defendant may reach a plea agreement with the prosecutor. If found guilty at trial, the defendant may face significant penalties, including imprisonment and fines.

Experienced legal counsel ensures that each stage of the process, starting from arraignment, is handled with meticulous attention to detail. This early intervention can significantly influence the trajectory of the case. By preparing diligently for the arraignment, our attorneys provide a robust defense from the outset, potentially identifying errors or inconsistencies in the prosecution's case that could be advantageous later.

Key Defense Strategies in Felony Cases

Every felony case is different, but the foundation of a strong defense always includes a meticulous review of the evidence and an assertive challenge to the prosecution’s claims. Common strategies include:

• Challenging the Legality of the Arrest: If police violated your rights during the arrest, the entire case may be compromised.
• Suppression of Illegally Obtained Evidence: Evidence collected without a proper warrant or probable cause can be excluded.
• Discrediting Witnesses: Many felony cases hinge on unreliable or biased witnesses. We uncover inconsistencies or motives to lie.
• Presenting Alternative Explanations: If the evidence is circumstantial, we may offer alternative theories of the crime that create reasonable doubt.
• Negotiating for Charge Reduction: When appropriate, we negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges to misdemeanors or less serious felonies.

Each Grand Rapids felony defense attorney on our team has the courtroom experience and legal skill to build an aggressive and effective defense.

Talk to a Grand Rapids Felony Defense Lawyer Today

A felony charge does not have to end your future. The sooner you involve a skilled Grand Rapids felony defense attorney, the more time we have to investigate, protect your rights, and build your defense. Tanis Schultz is ready to take your side.

Call our Grand Rapids felony defense lawyers at (616) 227-3737 or fill out this online form today to get started on your defense.