At the start of any case, you’re reminded of your right to an attorney. However, you may choose to give up that right. It might seem like a bold show of confidence or a way to control your case, but the decision carries far more weight than you may realize. While...
Grand Rapids Criminal Defense Law Blog
When can the state bring possession with intent charges?
Those accused of involvement with the organized acquisition, manufacturing or distribution of drugs are likely to face felony charges. However, people involved in seemingly minor drug offenses could also potentially face felony charges in certain circumstances. For...
Miranda rights provide critical constitutional protections
Miranda rights are rights recited by law enforcement – usually during an arrest. They include the right to remain silent and the right to be represented by an attorney, among others. These rights stem from the 5th Amendment of the Constitution and were established by...
You can still face marijuana charges in Michigan
Michigan has legalized marijuana for recreational use. This has been true for years, as legalization occurred in 2018 and sales began in 2019. Even before that, Michigan had a medical marijuana program, so many users were already accustomed to being able to legally...
Can I be charged for burning my home?
The idea of setting your home on fire may sound unusual, but it does raise an important legal question. You might think that because you own the property, you have the freedom to do whatever you want with it. However, the law looks at fire differently, and the...
Production practices that can trigger counterfeiting charges
Counterfeiting is a serious crime in Michigan, and anyone involved in the production of goods needs to be aware of practices that can cross legal boundaries. Counterfeiting is not limited to fake money or forged documents. It also applies to the unauthorized...
When might financial professionals face investment fraud charges?
White-collar crimes may involve a variety of different forms of financial misconduct. Professionals working in the finance and investment sectors are among those most at risk of white-collar criminal charges. Access to capital creates an opportunity for financial...
Defending against claims of Medicare or Medicaid fraud
Millions of Americans count on Medicare and Medicaid to help them pay for the healthcare they need. These programs involve considerable amounts of money, which makes them a target for fraud. Because of the intricacies of these programs, it’s often possible that...
When is drug possession classified as a felony offense?
Drug laws in Michigan are relatively complex. People can sometimes unintentionally break the law because they don't understand what is legal and what is not. Many people accused of violating controlled substances statutes in West Michigan hope to face simple...
Can staying silent at work become a legal risk?
It is easy to think that staying quiet is the safest move when something feels off at work. Maybe you saw a document that did not look right or overheard a conversation that raised questions. You might feel unsure about what to do next or wonder if it is even your...

