Knowing Your Rights Can Help You Make Better Decisions

Michigan Criminal Defense Attorneys - Group

Even those accused, charged, or convicted of a criminal offense still retain legal rights. If these rights are violated at any point in the proceedings, from the arrest to the trial, the outcome of a criminal case can, and usually will, often change in favor of the defendant. The media and the public have become consumed with ‘victim’s rights.’ We focus on your rights!

If you or someone you know has been charged with a crime or is being investigated for a criminal allegation, it is vital to consult with a trusted criminal attorney who has extensive experience protecting their client’s rights. Please contact us today for a FREE consultation to ensure your legal rights are protected.

Individuals accused or charged with a crime have various legal rights, five of which are extremely important and should always be invoked. Everyone’s rights are enshrined in the federal and state Constitutions. They include:

  • Defendant’s Right to an Attorney – Every defendant has the right to obtain legal counsel. If an individual cannot afford an attorney, the court must appoint one at no cost. A person being investigated for a criminal offense should always invoke their right to speak to an attorney before answering any questions. A defendant can decide to represent themselves in court, which is NOT recommended.
  • Defendant’s Right to a Jury Trial – All individuals charged with crimes have the right to a fair, public, and speedy trial. Furthermore, they are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt by 12 impartial jurors (felony) or six (6) impartial jurors (misdemeanor).
  • Defendant’s Right Against Self-Incrimination – A defendant has the legal right to remain silent to prevent self-incrimination. Defendants are also legally eligible to testify on their own behalf. During the investigative stage in a case, a client should always exercise their right to remain silent until they have employed and consulted with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
  • Defendant’s Right to Confront Witnesses – An individual has the right to question and cross-examine every witness that testifies against them in a trial.
  • Defendant’s Right to Produce Evidence – A defendant may present their evidence and witnesses to the court.
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The American legal system, often lauded for its principles of justice, fairness, and due process, still has complexities and imperfections that necessitate the expertise of a top defense lawyer. Here’s why:

Complexity of the Law: U.S. laws, statutes, and regulations are vast and intricate. Navigating this labyrinth requires extensive knowledge, which top defense lawyers possess. Ordinary citizens may not be familiar with the nuances and interpretations of laws, leaving them vulnerable to potential legal pitfalls.

Prosecutorial Discretion: Prosecutors have significant discretion in deciding which charges to bring against a defendant. A top defense lawyer can challenge the validity of these charges, potentially reducing or dismissing them.

Rights Protection: While the legal system aims to protect individual rights, those rights can sometimes be overlooked or infringed upon. Defense lawyers ensure that the rights of the accused, such as the right to a fair trial, the right against self-incrimination, and the right to due process, are always upheld.

Resources of the State: With its vast resources, the state can present formidable opposition in criminal cases. A skilled defense attorney levels the playing field, ensuring the defendant’s side is presented forcefully and effectively.

Human Error and Bias: The legal system is administered by humans, and humans are fallible. Mistakes can happen, evidence can be misinterpreted, and biases can influence decisions. A top defense lawyer can scrutinize and challenge any inconsistencies or biases in the case.

Sentencing Advocacy: In cases where a guilty verdict may be inevitable, defense attorneys play a crucial role in advocating for fair and reasonable sentencing, potentially reducing the severity of punishment.

Emotional and Psychological Support: Beyond legal expertise, top defense lawyers often provide invaluable emotional and psychological support to clients, guiding them through the often intimidating and traumatic experience of facing criminal charges.

Innocence is No Guarantee: Sadly, innocent individuals can get wrongfully accused and convicted. A top defense lawyer dramatically increases the chances of revealing the truth and achieving justice.

While the American legal system has many merits, it’s not infallible. Top defense lawyers, such as the attorneys with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C., safeguard individual rights and ensure that the spirit of the law—true justice—is realized.

Michigan Criminal Defense Attorney

At LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C., understanding and applying constitutional law is at the heart of our defense strategies. Our in-depth knowledge of the United States and Michigan constitutions allows us to craft defenses that challenge the prosecution’s case and protect our clients’ fundamental rights. Whether facing misdemeanor or felony charges, clients can trust our firm to use every tool at our disposal, including the powerful protections provided by constitutional law, to secure the best possible outcome.

In a legal landscape where the balance of power is heavily weighted towards the government, the United States and Michigan constitutions are beacons of protection. LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. is committed to wielding these constitutional protections passionately and effectively, ensuring that our clients’ rights are defended at every turn.

The Defense Team with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. has decades of experience successfully defending clients and winning a track record. We utilize a team approach that consistently achieves extraordinary results that are unattainable by solo practitioners, general practice lawyers, and bargain attorneys. If you call us for a free consultation, we will take the time to talk with you, ensure you understand your rights, and fight to protect and defend you in court. We are not afraid to win!

Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete an online Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.

We will find a way to help you and, most importantly,
we are not afraid to win!

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