There is No Substitute for an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
If you face criminal charges in Michigan or think you may be a suspect in a criminal investigation, you need the immediate assistance of an expert Michigan criminal defense lawyer.
Why is an expert criminal defense lawyer worth the investment?
“Do I need a criminal defense lawyer?” A great criminal defense lawyer can explain your rights during all stages of the criminal process and will likely help make the difference between a good result and a great result. Finding an expert Michigan criminal defense lawyer can be confusing and stressful.
Being charged with a crime in Michigan, whether a felony or misdemeanor, is very serious. A person facing criminal charges in Michigan risks severe penalties and consequences, such as jail time, having a criminal record, loss of relationships, custody problems, employment hardships, loss of gun rights, heavy fines and costs, and more.
While you might be able to handle some legal matters alone or with a general practice lawyer, a criminal arrest warrants the legal advice of a qualified, experienced, fearless criminal defense attorney who can protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case. A highly skilled defense attorney can make the difference between a personal bond at an arraignment on a warrant or a substantial cash/surety bond.
If you’re facing criminal prosecution in Michigan, an expert Michigan criminal defense lawyer can help you understand:
- the nature of the charges filed,
- any available defenses,
- what plea bargains or sentence agreements are likely to be offered, and
- what to expect at trial or if there is a conviction? The key to a good attorney-client relationship is good communication and an attorney who promptly returns calls and patiently listens to the client’s concerns.
- how to avoid a conviction, if possible.
What to Look for in a Michigan Criminal Defense Lawyer
Criminal defense attorneys handle various criminal cases, including felonies, misdemeanors, domestic violence, DUI (drunk driving or OWI), drug charges, white-collar crimes, and many other state and federal crimes.
When looking for a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to find the best one for your case. As such, you should concentrate on the lawyer’s expertise, skill level, and knowledge. There is no substitute for an “in-person” interview with an attorney. Trial lawyers are experts at talking, but the eyes do not lie. Meet with an attorney personally, and you will be able to get a good feel for whether they are right for you. By meeting with a lawyer in person, you will be able to see their office, mannerisms, style, and support staff. A successful, effective attorney is likely to present a strong image of confidence and have the apparent resources to back up that confidence.
Expertise
A top criminal defense lawyer with years of experience and expertise may be able to:
- reduce your criminal charge to a lesser offense (for example, reduce a felony to a misdemeanor),
- lessen the severity of the punishment for the crime (including fines, costs, and terms and conditions of probation),
- reduce or eliminate jail time (via probation, for example), and
- help you develop a sound defense strategy.
There should be no greater goal for a dedicated Michigan Criminal Attorney than achieving a dismissal of all or part of the charges if possible.
Skill Level
Also, because of the nature of what’s at stake, the defense attorney you hire must have the necessary skill level and knowledge needed to defend the case. For instance, you may need someone familiar with crime scene investigations, witness/victim/police interviewing, and extensive knowledge of polygraphs, sketches, photographs, and video.
You should avoid lawyers who are sole practitioners (work by themselves) or simply “sign up” the client and then refer the cases out to other or less experienced lawyers.
Knowledge
An attorney who has few or no employees and advertises many areas of practice may not be able to handle your criminal matter adequately. The lawyers at our firm are experts and specialize in criminal law. The LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. team knows the law and keeps apprised of any new legislation.
How to Find a Michigan Criminal Defense Lawyer
There are numerous ways to find a criminal defense lawyer. Referrals from friends and family or online research (like www.avvo.com) may be a good start. However, there is no better way than interviewing a criminal attorney on the telephone or in person to see if they are the right lawyer for you. If you are asking, “Do I need a criminal defense lawyer?” you should contact one or more lawyers right away for a free consultation.
We Can Help You
We understand that hiring a criminal defense lawyer is not a planned expense. Attorney fees tend to correlate with a lawyer’s experience, reputation, and effectiveness. Hiring an experienced, reputable criminal defense lawyer is an investment to protect your freedom, future, reputation, etc. There are times when it makes sense to hunt for a bargain, but hiring a lawyer is not such an occasion, especially when the outcome of the matter is consequential. The only thing standing between you and the government is your lawyer. It is best to ensure that your lawyer and their team can give you the best possible defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer if I’m charged with a misdemeanor?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor can leave you with a long-term criminal record, fines, and possible jail time. It can affect your job, license, civil rights, and reputation. A respected and influential defense lawyer can often get charges reduced or dismissed and help you avoid mistakes that can make things worse. Judges and prosecutors take your case more seriously when you have strong legal representation.
When should I hire a criminal defense attorney for a DUI first offense?
Right away. The earlier a lawyer gets involved, the better your chances. They can challenge the stop, testing, or police reports before they become problems. A first OWI in Michigan can mean jail, fines, and a suspended license. A good lawyer can often protect your license and keep you out of jail.
Can I use a court-appointed lawyer in a felony criminal case, or do I need to hire a lawyer?
You can, but you shouldn’t. Felony cases are serious, and the law is complicated. One mistake can cost you your freedom. A skilled, retained defense lawyer knows how to challenge evidence, file motions, and negotiate with prosecutors. Without that experience, you’re gambling with your future. An appointed lawyer might be overburdened or not have the resources to mount a zealous defense.
What are the benefits of hiring a criminal defense lawyer at the arraignment stage?
Having a retained lawyer at arraignment can help you get a lower bond and keep restrictions off your release. They’ll make sure you don’t say anything that hurts your case and can start working with the prosecutor early. Quick pre-charge action sometimes prevents charges from moving forward or leads to better outcomes. A retained lawyer can prepare you and the necessary evidence before the arraignment to ensure you get the best outcome.
How do I choose the right criminal defense lawyer in Michigan?
Choose someone who focuses only on criminal defense and has experience in your local courts. They should explain things clearly, communicate well, and make you feel confident in their strategy. At LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C., our team of experienced defense attorneys has spent decades protecting clients throughout Michigan and fighting for the best possible results.
Meet With Us for a Free, Confidential Consultation
We want to meet with you and give you the personal attention of a team member. We are an authentic criminal defense law firm that uses a team approach to achieve the best possible result for our clients in federal and state courts throughout Michigan. We have the experience and reputation for attaining results for our clients that other lawyers cannot achieve. We can answer your question about whether you need a criminal defense lawyer or not and help you determine what options are best for you.
We Won’t Let You Down
If you are charged with a crime or accused of committing a criminal offense, you deserve the care and dedication that LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. provides. We understand that you want us to treat you as if you were a member of our own family. That is the type of attention and commitment that you will receive. If you call us for a free consultation, we will take the time to talk with you, answer all of your questions, and address each of your concerns. By utilizing a unique team approach, we can achieve results unattainable by other lawyers.
We will find a way to help you, and most importantly…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.
We Are Not Afraid to Win!
