Kalamazoo Felony Attorneys

Facing Felony Charges in Kalamazoo, MI? We’ve Got Your Back

You may not be aware of the short and long-term ramifications of a felony conviction. All criminal charges are serious, but a felony can be downright life-ruining. You may lose your professional licenses and education opportunities, and your career may be ripped out from under you. Don’t take these charges lightly.

If you or someone you know is facing felony charges in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the stakes are high, and the legal process can be overwhelming. At Levine & Levine Attorneys at Law, we understand the gravity of felony charges and the significant impact they can have on your life. Our experienced team of Kalamazoo felony defense attorneys is dedicated to protecting your rights, providing strategic legal representation, and guiding you through every step of the criminal justice system.

If you are facing felony charges, contact our firm right away at 269-626-2296 to schedule a free consultation and discuss your legal options.

What is a Felony?

A felony in Michigan is a more serious criminal offense than a misdemeanor. It is punishable by imprisonment for more than one year in a state prison or other correctional facility. Felonies are more severe than misdemeanors and are typically associated with more significant crimes.

Some common examples of felonies in Michigan include:

What Are Michigan Felony Classifications?

According to Michigan criminal law, there are nine felony classes. The penalties for felony convictions in Michigan vary depending on the specific class of the felony and other factors, such as prior criminal history.

Here is a breakdown of the felony classifications in Michigan:

Class A Felony:Punishable by up to life in prison without the possibility of parole or a specified term of years (e.g., 25 to 50 years)
Class B Felony:Punishable by up to 20 years in prison
Class C Felony:Punishable by up to 15 years in prison
Class D Felony:Punishable by up to 10 years in prison
Class E Felony:Punishable by up to 5 years in prison
Class F Felony:Punishable by up to 4 years in prison
Class G felony:Punishable by up to 2 years in prison
Class H Felony:Punishable by either jail time, probation, or other alternative sentences in lieu of imprisonment

Where Are Felonies Tried?

In Michigan, felony charges are tried in the circuit court of the county where the offense occurred. For example, a felony committed in the Kalamazoo area will be tried in Kalamazoo County. But first, you will be arraigned, where your charges are read to you, your bond is set, and you are informed of your rights.

However, federal felonies are tried in the United States District Courts. Felony federal charges include serious offenses like drug trafficking, conspiracy, firearms violations, and white-collar crimes that cross state lines or violate federal statutes. You will need a criminal defense lawyer experienced with federal court to increase your odds of having your charges dismissed or receiving a favorable plea agreement.

What Should You Do If You Are Arrested for a Felony?

If you are arrested for a felony, taking the right steps immediately can significantly impact the outcome of your case. First, remain calm and avoid resisting arrest, as this can lead to additional charges. Exercise your right to remain silent; anything you say can be used against you. Politely inform law enforcement that you wish to speak to a Kalamazoo felony defense lawyer before answering any questions. They may attempt to guilt you with lines like “if you’re not guilty, you don’t need a lawyer.” Ignore these comments. Reopening the conversation allows officers to continue questioning you.

Do not discuss your case with anyone, including friends or family, as these conversations may not be protected by confidentiality. Once you have secured legal representation, your attorney will evaluate the evidence, identify possible defenses, and guide you through the legal process. Comply with any conditions of release, such as attending court hearings or avoiding contact with alleged victims. Taking these steps ensures your rights are protected and allows for the best possible defense against the charges.

One of the best legal services offered by criminal defense lawyers is the buffer they create between you and police officers, prosecutors, and other government agencies. This reduces the odds of being manipulated into saying the wrong thing. Are you ready to start building your defense? Call 269-626-2296 to schedule a free consultation with a criminal defense lawyer.

Can Felony Charges Be Dismissed or Reduced?

This is a complicated question with a range of answers. The only way we can give you an accurate answer is by examining the facts of your case, such as charges, the evidence found against you, and what the prosecutor is gunning for.

However, the short answer is “yes,” but only with the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. The Kalamazoo criminal defense attorneys of Levine & Levine Attorneys at Law will examine every angle of your case to find weaknesses in the prosecutor’s arguments. This can include challenging unlawful searches or seizures that violate your Fourth Amendment rights, highlighting inconsistencies in witness statements, or exposing insufficient or improperly gained evidence.

There may be situations where we will pursue a motion to dismiss. If the facts don’t support the charge or there was a constitutional violation during the investigation or arrest, we will try to get your case dismissed.

A weak case may also increase your leverage with the prosecutor. If they worry about the viability of their trial evidence, they may offer a plea agreement where you agree to a lesser charge and avoid court.

Either way, early legal intervention is the key to success. The sooner we get involved with your case, the more leverage we have to shape the narrative, control the evidence, and limit exposure to serious, life-altering penalties.

What Is Our Approach to Felony Defense?

At Levine & Levine Attorneys at Law, we believe that every case deserves personalized attention and a strategic approach. When you choose us to represent you in your felony defense case, you can expect the following:

Thorough Case Evaluation:We will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your case, reviewing all evidence and circumstances to identify potential defense strategies. We provide clients with a free initial consultation.
Clear Communication:We understand that the legal process can be confusing, so we’ll communicate with you clearly and regularly, keeping you informed about the progress of your case.
Collaborative Team Effort:Our attorneys work collaboratively, leveraging their individual strengths and experiences to provide you with the best possible defense.
Aggressive Advocacy:We are passionate about protecting our clients’ rights and will tirelessly advocate for you both inside and outside the courtroom.
Striving for the Best Outcome:While every case is unique, our ultimate goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for your specific situation, whether that involves negotiating a plea deal or fighting for an acquittal at trial.

Contact Levine & Levine Attorneys at Law for Your Felony Defense Needs

If you or a loved one is facing felony charges in Kalamazoo, MI, don’t wait to secure strong legal representation. Waiting will only give the prosecution more time to build their case against you. Let us put our knowledge, skills, and dedication to work for you and your future. Remember, you don’t have to navigate this difficult time alone; we are here to fight for your rights and provide the defense you deserve.

Contact Levine & Levine Attorneys at Law today at 269-626-2296 to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Kalamazoo felony defense lawyer.