Violent Crime Attorney in Grand Rapids

Protecting Your Future With Aggressive Violent Crime Defense

When you’re confronted with allegations of assault, robbery, or other violent crime charges in Grand Rapids or West Michigan, having the right legal partner is essential. At Tanis Schultz, our violent crime defense lawyers in Grand Rapids use decades of collective courtroom experience, a coordinated team approach, and cutting-edge technology to defend your rights at every stage. 

We understand how the criminal justice system operates in Kent County and the surrounding area, and we offer our full support as you face the intimidating process ahead. Each case is met with a strategic and proactive defense, giving you a clear path forward in the face of serious accusations. Our team of violent crime attorneys in Grand Rapids stays updated on Michigan’s criminal statutes and rules, ensuring that your defense takes advantage of recent case law, legal reforms, and local court trends.

Facing a serious criminal charge? With 50 years of collective experience, we offer free consultations and a track record of success. Call (616) 227-3737 or contact us online to speak with a violent crime attorney in Grand Rapids today.

Violent Crime Defense Services in Grand Rapids & West Michigan

In Michigan, the laws governing violent crimes are primarily found in the Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) Chapter 750, which is the Michigan Penal Code. The law categorizes violent crimes as a broad category that includes offenses against persons. The law's classifications are based on the severity of the act, the use of a weapon, and the intent behind the crime. 

Michigan law covers a wide scope of violent crime charges, including:

• Assault & Battery: Our attorneys examine all elements—from evidence collection procedures to accounts from witnesses—ensuring we challenge flaws and overreach in the prosecution’s case to protect your rights.
• Domestic Violence: We navigate local procedures under Michigan’s domestic violence statutes, safeguard your due process rights, and explore every opportunity for alternative sentencing or reduced penalties when available.
• Weapons Offenses: Firearm or dangerous weapon allegations are common in violent crime cases in Kent County, and we rigorously evaluate your defense for every relevant Michigan and federal law as well as potential constitutional arguments.
• Robbery & Armed Robbery: Our approach involves a thorough review of witness testimony, evidence handling, and police procedures at every step, holding law enforcement accountable and ensuring the highest level of scrutiny for your defense.
• Other Violent Felonies: This includes manslaughter, attempted murder, and related serious offenses. We use our collective experience to build the most comprehensive and dynamic defense possible from the moment you call us.

We provide end-to-end support in the criminal process, from initial police questioning and bail hearings to pretrial motions, trial, and, where needed, appeals. Our violent crime lawyers in Grand Rapids advise on the full range of impacts a conviction can have, such as difficulties with employment background checks, child custody, or professional licensing in Michigan. 

We provide clarity on state definitions, explain complex charges in detail, and outline the collateral consequences unique to the Grand Rapids area, so you’re never left in the dark. Your defense doesn’t stop at the courtroom; we’re committed to helping you restore your future well beyond your case’s conclusion.

Penalties of a Violent Crime Conviction in Michigan

The direct legal penalties for a violent crime conviction in Michigan are steep and often include:

• Incarceration: Jail or prison time, ranging from a few months for a misdemeanor to a life sentence for a serious felony.
• Fines: Fines can be substantial, often reaching into the thousands or tens of thousands of dollars.
• Probation and Supervised Release: A conviction will likely be followed by a period of supervised probation or parole, during which you must adhere to strict conditions. A violation of these terms can lead to re-incarceration.
• Mandatory Counseling: The court may order you to attend various programs, such as anger management or domestic violence classes.

Collateral Consequences

A criminal record for a violent crime can follow you for the rest of your life, making it incredibly difficult to find employment, obtain professional licenses, or secure housing. Many employers and professional licensing boards have zero-tolerance policies for these convictions, and landlords often deny rental applications to those with a criminal record.

Additionally, a felony conviction will result in a permanent ban on owning or possessing a firearm. For non-citizens, a criminal conviction can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation. The social stigma attached to these crimes can also damage your reputation and personal relationships.

Building a Strategic Defense Against Violent Crimes in Grand Rapids

Every case is unique, and we develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. As a seasoned Grand Rapids violent crimes lawyer, we will leverage every possible defense, including:

• Self-Defense or Defense of Others: We can argue that you were not the aggressor and that your actions were a reasonable response to the threat of physical harm from the alleged victim. Michigan law recognizes the right to use reasonable force in self-defense.
• Lack of Intent or Mens Rea: We can argue that you lacked the necessary mental state to commit the crime. For example, if the act was an accident or a misunderstanding, it may not meet the legal definition of the charged offense.
• Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. We will argue that the evidence presented is not sufficient to meet this high standard, either because the witness testimony is inconsistent or the forensic evidence is flawed.
• Mistaken Identity: We can argue that you have been misidentified as the person who committed the crime. This defense is particularly strong when the identification is based on a flawed witness lineup or a single, fleeting observation.
• Constitutional Violations: We will challenge any violation of your rights, such as an unlawful search and seizure or a coerced confession.

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