Violent Crimes

Defense Attorney Representing People in Southeast Michigan

Crimes that involve bodily harm to another person are typically penalized more harshly than those involving loss of property. As a result, people charged with violent crimes are often apprehensive of the potential consequences that they may face if they are deemed guilty. Fortunately, there are numerous steps between criminal charges and a determination of guilt, and the State must meet a substantial burden of proof to obtain a conviction. If you are faced with accusations that you committed a violent offense, it is essential to engage a Detroit violent crime lawyer who will advocate aggressively on your behalf. Ellen K. Michaels is an accomplished criminal defense lawyer who understands that your liberties are in jeopardy, and if you engage her services, she will fight tirelessly to help you seek the best result possible under the circumstances. She diligently represents people throughout the Detroit metro area, including in Macomb, Wayne, Oakland, and Monroe Counties.

Violent Crimes and Potential Penalties

There are several violent crimes under Michigan law, including murder, assault, aggravated assault, rape, and robbery. Generally, violent crimes involve the use or threat of force. Whether a person accused of a violent crime is charged with a felony or misdemeanor and the penalties imposed depend on the severity of the harm that the victim suffered. First-degree murder is punishable by life imprisonment without eligibility for parole. First-degree murder is not limited to premeditated acts but also includes murder committed during the commission of or preparation for many crimes and the murder of a corrections or peace officer. Any homicide that does not constitute first-degree murder is charged as second-degree murder and is punishable by life imprisonment or any prison term that the sentencing court deems fit. Typically, the jury will issue a finding as to whether a person is guilty of first- or second-degree murder in their verdict.

In Michigan the legal term for rape is called criminal sexual conduct, accompanied by the degree of first, second, third or fourth. You should immediately consult a violent crime attorney in the Detroit area if you are facing this charge. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the alleged acts, a person accused of rape may be charged with criminal sexual conduct of the first or third degree, both of which are felonies. Crimes of the first degree are punishable by life imprisonment, while offenses of the third degree are punishable by up to 15 years in prison. Robbery, which is an armed assault with the intent to steal, is also a felony punishable by up to life in prison. Assault crimes may be charged as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the circumstances.

Justifiable Use of Force

In some instances, people charged with violent crimes may be able to argue that they were acting in self-defense. In Michigan, the use of force against another individual is justified in certain situations. Notably, people arguing that they engaged in specific actions to defend themselves do not deny that they committed the acts that form the basis of the charges against them. Instead, they argue that they acted as necessary to defend themselves against the alleged victim’s use of force. A Detroit violent crime attorney can help make this argument when applicable. Generally, people are permitted to act in self-defense if they truly and reasonably believe that it is necessary to do so to protect them from an imminent, unlawful use of force. They are only permitted to use the amount of force necessary to counteract the threat. In many situations, they are not required to retreat from their aggressors before engaging in forceful behavior, however.

Consult an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer

A conviction for a violent crime can irreparably damage a person’s rights and reputation. If you are accused of a violent offense, it is smart to consult an attorney to discuss your charges and potential defenses. Ellen K. Michaels is aggressive and can craft persuasive arguments in your favor to help you pursue a successful outcome. Attorney Michaels’ offices are conveniently located in Detroit, Ann Arbor, Bloomfield Hills, and West Bloomfield, and she regularly represents people charged with violent crimes in Macomb, Wayne, Oakland, and Monroe Counties, and throughout Southeast Michigan. You can contact Attorney Michaels to set up a complimentary consultation with a violent crime lawyer in the Detroit area by using the online form or calling (248) 202-3345.