Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Waterford, MI

FAQs

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

  248-674-7527 is the non-emergency contact number of the local police station in Waterford.

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

  You can contact the Records Bureau at 248-674-0351, Prompt 4, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding national holidays. An Incident Report can be obtained for a fee of $0.50 per page.

• How can one clear up an arrest warrant in Waterford?

  To clear up an arrest warrant in Waterford, the only way is to appear in court where the warrant was issued. If the warrant is in the system, law enforcement officers will arrest the individual upon contact, even upon arrival in the US. Taking immediate action to resolve the warrant is crucial. Appearing in court with a competent attorney may result in the release of the accused on low or personal bond. However, if arrested, the attorney may file a Motion to Reduce Bond if a judge has already set a cash bond.

• What if you feel that the Waterford police violated your constitutional rights?

  If you feel that the police violated your constitutional rights, it is important to speak with a criminal defense attorney. They can help protect your rights by submitting motions to the judge seeking to exclude the evidence obtained due to police misconduct. This can lead to a successful motion to suppress evidence, which can substantially weaken the prosecutor's case and lead to a dismissal or reduced plea negotiation.

• How long will a criminal case take in Waterford?

  The duration of a criminal case in Waterford can vary depending on several factors, including the severity and complexity of the charges, the number of people involved, the court's location, and the amount of evidence to be reviewed. In Waterford, the time it takes to resolve a criminal case may also depend on the level of preparation and involvement of your defense attorney. Your lawyer can explain the process and potential timelines relevant to your particular case.

• How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Waterford?

  The answer to this question is contingent upon several variables, such as the severity of the charges, the importance of the investigation, and whether the case will go to trial or be settled via a plea bargain. Other factors that determine legal costs include the amount of effort put into your case, the geographical location of the court, if written motions are presented to the court, and if hearings are required.

• What happens if you have multiple alcohol-related driving offenses in Waterford?

  If you have multiple alcohol-related driving offenses in Waterford, the consequences can be severe. The state's drunk driving laws have become stricter in recent years due to increased awareness of the dangers of alcohol. If you receive a second offense, your license will automatically be suspended for six months, with the possibility of a longer suspension. However, note that this suspension is under the control of the Secretary of State, not the judge. Upon plea or conviction of a second offense, a judge may impose additional punishments, such as jail time.

• 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.