When you’re accused of a serious violent felony, the stakes could not be higher. These cases demand immediate, thorough investigation — preserving video, locating witnesses, reviewing forensic evidence and, when appropriate, working with independent experts. Do not speak with investigators before you speak with a lawyer.
Michigan violent crime charges and penalties
| Charge | Classification | Maximum penalty |
|---|---|---|
| First-degree murder | Felony | Mandatory life in prison without parole |
| Second-degree murder | Felony | Life, or any term of years |
| Manslaughter (voluntary or involuntary) | Felony | Up to 15 years in prison |
| Armed robbery | Felony | Life, or any term of years |
| Unarmed robbery | Felony | Up to 15 years in prison |
| Carjacking | Felony | Life, or any term of years |
| Kidnapping | Felony | Life, or any term of years |
| Arson of a dwelling | Felony | Up to 20 years in prison |
| Assault with intent to commit murder | Felony | Life, or any term of years |
Maximum penalties for a typical first offense under Michigan law. Prior convictions, weapons, injuries and other factors can increase them. Actual sentences are usually far below the maximum and depend on Michigan’s sentencing guidelines and the facts of the case.
Building the defense
Serious cases are won or lost on the details. We scrutinize how evidence was collected and whether police followed proper procedures, the reliability of eyewitness identifications (a leading cause of wrongful convictions), forensic and digital evidence including phone records and location data, and every statement attributed to you. Where the facts support it, we raise self-defense, defense of others, alibi, mistaken identity or lack of intent — and we challenge whether the evidence supports a lesser offense instead of the one charged.
Bond and pretrial release
In serious felony cases, the first bond hearing can determine whether you spend months in jail waiting for trial. We present your ties to the community, employment and history to seek reasonable bond conditions as early as possible.