Skilled Defense For Misdemeanor Charges

Any criminal offense has the potential to have life-changing consequences. If you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor, it’s important to take it seriously. The experienced criminal defense attorneys at West Michigan Defense Team bring more than 85 years of experience to their clients in Grand Rapids and throughout West Michigan. They understand the impact a conviction could have on your future and are devoted to protecting your best interests every step of the way.

Potential Consequences Of A Conviction

Misdemeanors are crimes that carry anywhere from 90 days in jail to one year as the possible penalty. The most common types of misdemeanors are typically OWIs (commonly known as drunk driving) and domestic violence cases. However, misdemeanors include things such as DNR violations, driving while a person’s license is suspended, as well retail fraud (shoplifting).

While it isn’t common for someone to receive jail time if they are facing a misdemeanor and have no criminal history, there are other consequences that can stem from a misdemeanor conviction. Employers increasingly seek applicants who have a clean criminal record. If they have the choice between someone with a criminal record and someone without, they will typically hire the applicant who has a clean record. In addition, while jail may not be likely, probation is often times ordered when someone is convicted of a misdemeanor criminal offense. In addition, there may be financial penalties that go along with being placed on probation.

For people with a criminal history who are facing a misdemeanor charge or charges, jail may be an increasing likelihood. While judges typically give first time offenders the benefit of the doubt, those who have been through the court system regularly are much more likely to receive some amount of incarceration as part of their sentence.

Help Is Just A Phone Call Away

If you or a loved one are facing misdemeanor charges in a Michigan court, contact us today to discuss your case. We offer free initial consultations and offer a number of payment options. Contact us online or call us.