Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Kalamazoo, MI

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.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.