Counterfeiting is punishable both at a state and federal level in Michigan. Most people think of counterfeiting as making fake money, but it includes fake products, dishonest marketing and willful possession of counterfeit items. Trademark and identifying mark...
Grand Rapids Criminal Defense Law Blog
Former House staffers charged with embezzlement
A married couple who once held senior positions in former Michigan House Speaker Lee Chatfield’s office have been accused of embezzlement. During an arraignment hearing held in an Esat Lansing District Court on Jan 3., the couple entered not guilty pleas to counts of...
This may be the end for geofence warrants
There are situations in which the use of a geofence warrant is appropriate. This is especially true in cold cases, where law enforcement has no other way to build a suspect list. But reverse-location services, another term for this type of warrant, also left many...
A potential consequence of a felony drug conviction
If you are convicted of a felony drug charge in Michigan, you may experience a number of interruptions to your life. For instance, it may be harder to retain custody of your kids or find adequate housing. You may also have a harder time accessing federal programs...
Criminal record expungements
Thousands of Michigan residents live with the burden of possessing a criminal record. A criminal record can make it extremely difficult to find a job and housing, leading many to struggle to re-acclimate after paying their debt to society. Criminal record expungements...
IRS and U.S. Treasury monitor tax shelters for abuses
The tax system allows businesses and individuals in Michigan to reduce their tax obligations under certain circumstances. Most retirement accounts represent a legal means for you to set aside money tax free, but you may also encounter other financial arrangements...
End the Cycle: The 61st District Drug Court
The 61st District Drug Court is a specialized court program that’s designed to address the needs of people who are struggling to overcome substance abuse and addiction within the 61st Court District, which includes Michigan. The goal of the 61st Drug Court is to...
Fast-food restaurant workers linked to credit card fraud scheme
When consumers use credit or debit cards, they expect the workers they deal with to protect their sensitive financial information. According to recent media reports, three workers at a popular Michigan City fast-food restaurant failed to do this. The two men and a...
Explaining drug trafficking
Drug laws can be confusing, particularly regarding controlled substances and charges for trafficking or possession. Federal and Michigan state laws prohibit most of these substances, but penalties and precedence can vary. There is also confusion between drug...
Pump-and-dump schemes
Investors want to receive a return on their investment, and they often rely on legitimate research and data before directing their funds toward an asset such as a stock. Unfortunately, a Michigan investor may discover they relied on inaccurate information or...

