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Felonies and Misdemeanors
In Michigan, a felony is defined as a crime for which the potential punishment carries greater than one year in county jail. Felonies can be capital in nature (i.e., life imprisonment), can carry a statutory maximum in prison (i.e., 10 years), or can function as a "high-court misdemeanor" (i.e., 2 year maximum). If you are charged with a felony, your case will begin with an arraignment—which is held either in jail or via a "self-surrender." Then, you are entitled to a preliminary examination, where the prosecutor is required to prove your guilt to send your case to trial. Our attorneys have handled thousands of preliminary examinations for virtually every felony charge imaginable, and would be glad to review your case to see if your case might be dismissed at this early stage. We have a private investigator who can help investigate your case, and a staff dedicated to helping you through this stressful time. From homicide to flee/elude, from narcotics offenses to OWI/3rd Offense, if you are charged with a felony, please call our office for a complimentary consultation.
In contrast, a misdemeanor is a crime for which the maximum punishment is one year in county jail. Put simply, misdemeanor offenses do not carry the threat of prison. They range from low-level misdemeanors (trespass, retail fraud) to crimes of violence (domestic violence, aggravated assault). Generally, you will either be arrested for a misdemeanor or sent a notice to appear at district court. On misdemeanor offenses, there is no preliminary examination, so many times the prosecution will proceed on the basis of the police report alone. This can be extraordinarily frustrating, especially if you believe the report is false or misleading. Your attorney may be the only person fighting for your position, and he/she better be prepared and skilled enough to fight for you. We handle every type of misdemeanor offense on Michigan’s books. If you have been sent a notice to appear, investigated or arrested for a misdemeanor, we will be glad to help.
In short, both felony and misdemeanor charges can take away your freedom, and can be expensive, stressful and embarrassing for your family and you. If you want to protect yourself, and need someone who will stand up and fight, we will be glad to talk to you. We have the experience, desire and skill to handle any criminal charge. While some lawyers "dabble" in criminal law, we have devoted our entire practice to exclusively handling criminal defense for people charged with any felony or misdemeanor.
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Simon & Geherin, PLLC
1310 South Main Street
Suite 11
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104
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Phone: 734-997-0870
Fax: 734-997-0872
info@simongeherin.com
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