Joking about selling drugs might seem harmless to some, but it can have severe legal consequences. The law does not take drug-related comments lightly. Even if you are innocently joking, authorities might not see it that way. Drug conspiracy laws aim to prevent the...
Grand Rapids Criminal Defense Law Blog
How to protect your medical practice from fraud accusations
Medicare and Medicaid are essential programs that provide millions of Americans with healthcare benefits. Medicare primarily serves individuals 65 and older, while Medicaid offers coverage to low-income individuals and families. These programs ensure that vulnerable...
When does a crime become a RICO offense?
Becoming involved in criminal offenses, whether misdemeanors or felonies, can lead to considerable penalties based on severity. However, the stakes can be significantly higher if the crime's details bring about additional charges, such as circumstances associated with...
What you need to know about securities fraud
White collar crimes can take different forms, including variations of securities fraud. This is why being completely transparent about the nature of your investments is important. Even a random report containing misleading information can be a type of securities fraud...
Dealing with tax fraud allegations
Tax fraud allegations can be unsettling for any business owner. When faced with such accusations, it is crucial to understand what they entail and the steps you should take to address them effectively. Ignoring or handling these claims inappropriately can lead to...
How firearm involvement in drug crimes leads to harsher penalties
Many states, including Michigan, lay down harsher penalties when weapons are involved in the commission of a drug offense. This is because the combination of drugs and firearms is often associated with an increased risk of violence and public safety concerns. Hence,...
Writing bad checks can result in stiff legal penalties
Despite the declining use of checks, they remain a staple in small business and personal transactions. Although issuing a check seems straightforward, the law recognizes that mistakes can occur and gives you enough time to rectify any oversights. However, deliberately...
Searches of Michigan residences lead to drug seizures
The Michigan State Police has reported that significant quantities of illegal drugs were discovered and seized during searches of residences in Hartford and Watervliet on April 10. A 36-year-old man and a 35-year-old woman have been taken into custody in connection...
Misappropriating assets from employee benefit plans is a crime
The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) is a commonly known employee benefit plan. Companies are expected to administer these plans with their employees' interests at heart, diligently allocating funds or assets for their benefit. Under federal...
The penalties for heroin possession and distribution in Michigan
Heroin is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in Michigan, which means lawmakers have determined that the drug is highly addictive and has no legitimate medical uses. Crimes involving heroin are generally charged as felonies in Michigan, and even...