Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Kalamazoo, MI

Kalamazoo, MI Criminal Defense FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Kalamazoo, Michigan?

  The non-emergency contact number for the Kalamazoo County Police Department is 269-488-8911.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Kalamazoo, Michigan?

  You can obtain a copy of the police report related to your case from the Kalamazoo Sheriff’s Office Records Section. The Records Section requires requestors to submit a written request through mail or fax. Requests via fax should be sent to 269-385-6162 with the subject "Attention: Records Section." Requests via mail should be addressed to: Kalamazoo County Sheriff's Office 1500 Lamont St Kalamazoo, MI 49048 Attention: Records Section You can also contact the Records Section at 269-385-6191 before you submit your written request.

• Which district courts in Kalamazoo handle traffic or misdemeanor offenses?

  Cases involving traffic or misdemeanor offenses in Kalamazoo are handled by the 8th Judicial District Court - Criminal Division. The 8th District Court is made up of three courts, two of which serve Kalamazoo. The Crosstown Location handles non-misdemeanor traffic offenses, while the North Location deals with all other misdemeanor cases or felony preliminary evaluations.

• Which court will your case be filed in if you are convicted of a serious criminal offense in Kalamazoo?

  If you are convicted of a serious criminal offense, such as a serious misdemeanor and felony in Kalamazoo, your case will be handled by the 9th Judicial Circuit Court. It is located at Michigan Avenue Courthouse, 227 W. Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49048. It also presides over criminal appeal cases.

• What constitutes an OWI offense in Kalamazoo?

  A motorist can be arrested for an OWI offense in Kalamazoo if they are caught operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance, or if they demonstrate a bodily alcohol content of 0.08% or over. This means that the motorist does not necessarily have to feel intoxicated in order to be convicted of OWI.

• What are the possible penalties for your domestic violence conviction in Kalamazoo?

  If you are convicted of domestic violence in Kalamazoo, your penalties will depend on the severity of your offense. Under state law, you can face the following penalties:

  • 1st offense (misdemeanor): 93 days jail time and/or fines of up to $500
  • 2nd offense (misdemeanor): one year jail time and/or fines of up to $1,000
  • 3rd offense (felony): five years prison time and/or fines of up to $5,000

• What are the different levels of criminal offenses in Kalamazoo?

  The State of Michigan, which Kalamazoo is a part of, classifies criminal charges into three levels: infraction, misdemeanor, and felony. Infractions are violations of local ordinances, which include speeding and jaywalking. Misdemeanors are violations of local or state laws. Some examples include assault and battery, reckless driving, drug possession, domestic violence, and trespassing. Meanwhile, felonies are considered the most serious charges and may involve serious injury or the defendant committing the same crime several times before.