Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Southfield, MI

FAQs

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

  248-796-5500 is the non-emergency number of the City of Southfield Police Department.

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

  The City of Southfield Police Department responds to records requests at 1-248-796-5580. The Records Bureau is at 26000 Evergreen, P.O. Box 2055, Southfield, MI 48037-2055.

• How much time do prosecutors have to begin a trial against a criminal defendant in Southfield?

  A criminal defendant in Southfield and Michigan, in general, must be brought to trial within 90 days after being taken into police custody to answer for a felony. If the offense if a misdemeanor, the period is seven days after being arrested. If the suspect has not been detained, his counsel could formally demand a speedy trial, and this gives the government 90 days to begin trial for a misdemeanor and 180 days for a felony.

• What are the consequences of a criminal conviction for defendants in Southfield?

  A criminal conviction in Southfield carries with it fines at the very least and jail time at worst. Property linked to the offense is confiscated, and the convict has a duty to compensate the victims. After release, ex-cons are still unable to own a firearm and face difficulties applying for higher education or gainful employment.

• What are the ramifications if a child is tried as an adult criminal defendant in Southfield?

  A child tried as an adult defendant in Southfield will be treated punitively instead of rehabilitative by the law, and the penalty will emphasize incarceration over reform. This happens when a minor commits a crime that is severe in nature, like armed robbery, murder, or first-degree sexual misconduct. For grave sexual offenses, it is also possible to be put on the sex offender registry.

• What are the basic rights that criminal defendants are entitled to in Southfield?

  Criminal defendants in Southfield and the state are entitled to a wide selection of constitutional rights, beginning with the right to remain silent. This is paired with the right to be represented by an attorney, which is court-appointed in the case of indigents. Suspects can also ask for jury trials and the right to confront witnesses while producing exonerating evidence.

• What are the pros and cons of resorting to public defenders for a criminal charge in Southfield?

  The chief benefit of getting a public defender in Southfield and the state is it frees the suspect from having to self-represent in court and committing unforced errors during the trial. It is still preferable to get a lawyer of one's choice because one may not trust the judiciary's choice. One con of hiring a public defender is that the representation is only free initially since court-appointed counsel may seek compensation once the proceedings have concluded.

• 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.