Practice Areas
Criminal Defense Cases We Handle in Michigan
Michigan's criminal defense landscape spans 83 counties with cases heard in district courts, circuit courts, and federal courts within the Eastern and Western Districts of Michigan. The state follows both common law principles and specific Michigan statutes, including the Michigan Penal Code and Code of Criminal Procedure. Detroit's 36th District Court is one of the busiest criminal courts in the state, while rural counties may have different procedural approaches. Michigan's legal environment requires attorneys who understand both state-specific laws and local court cultures.
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Drug possession and trafficking
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Federal criminal charges
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Domestic violence defense
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Criminal Defense Attorneys by City in Michigan
Select your city for local attorney matching and city-specific legal information.
Why It Matters
Why Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney in Michigan?
Michigan-licensed criminal defense attorneys must pass the state bar exam and understand Michigan's specific criminal statutes, sentencing guidelines, and court procedures. Only attorneys admitted to practice in Michigan can represent clients in state courts, and federal cases require admission to the Eastern or Western District of Michigan. Local attorneys also have established relationships with prosecutors and judges that can benefit case outcomes.
Local Courts
Criminal defense cases in Michigan are primarily handled by the state's 78 district courts for misdemeanors and preliminary examinations, while felonies proceed to the 57 circuit courts. Federal criminal matters are adjudicated in the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Michigan.
Michigan Law
Michigan Criminal Defense Laws & Deadlines
Michigan criminal cases are governed by the Michigan Penal Code (MCL 750.1 et seq.) and the Code of Criminal Procedure (MCL 767.1 et seq.). The state has specific statutes of limitations ranging from 6 years for most felonies to no limitation for murder, with many misdemeanors having a 6-year limit. Michigan also follows specific sentencing guidelines under MCL 777.1 that judges must consider when imposing sentences.
Key Facts
What to Know About Criminal Defense in Michigan
Typical Recovery Range
Michigan criminal defense outcomes vary significantly based on charges, with misdemeanor cases often resolving through plea agreements or diversion programs.
When to Act
Immediately after arrest or charges filed
Attorney Cost
Free consultation · Contingency available
Coverage
Statewide — all Michigan counties
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the penalties for drunk driving in Michigan?
Michigan OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) penalties include fines up to $500, up to 93 days in jail, and 6-month license suspension for first offense. Repeat offenses carry increasingly severe penalties including felony charges, and Michigan has an implied consent law requiring chemical testing.
How long does Michigan keep criminal records?
Michigan allows expungement (setting aside) of certain criminal records after waiting periods ranging from 3-7 years depending on the offense. Under MCL 780.621, individuals can petition to set aside up to 3 felony convictions or unlimited misdemeanors, with some exceptions for serious crimes.
Do I need a Michigan attorney for criminal charges in Detroit?
Yes, criminal charges in Detroit require representation by a Michigan-licensed attorney who can practice in state court and understands local procedures in Detroit's 36th District Court. Out-of-state attorneys must seek special admission and typically work with local counsel familiar with Michigan criminal law.
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