Unlike civil cases where a dispute is between two or more private individuals, criminal charges are brought by local, state, or federal governments. If faced with such charges, you are up against a government entity and all of the money, time, and resources it can wield. This means you need experienced counsel. As a criminal defense lawyer in Michigan, Great Lakes Legal Group can defend you against a variety of charges, from civil infractions to misdemeanors and felonies. Engaging an experienced criminal defense attorney knowledgeable in criminal law as soon as you are facing, or think you may be facing charges, is the most prudent course of action to take.
The Great Lakes Legal Group can handle the following charges in both Federal and State Courts throughout Michigan:
Traffic Violations
Attorney Ayanna Alcendor is our approved civil mediator, certified by the Michigan State Court Administrative office, who is dedicated to protecting your legal interests while also providing a cost-effective, time-saving alternative to the formal litigation process. As a member of the Oakland and Wayne County Criminal Bar Associations and Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan, Alcendro has worked with an expansive network of attorneys, gaining incredible and invaluable insight into Michigan’s legal system, to provide you with the best legal mediation services.
DUI and OWI
Driving Under the Influence and Operating While Intoxicated is prosecuted extremely aggressively under the law, so you should have an attorney who is prepared to fight back with the same vigor. Drunk driving charges carry very serious consequences, including substantial fines, jail time or probation, loss of your license, and higher insurance rates. We can help you fight your charges, including the evaluation of roadside intoxication tests and constitutional analysis of whether law enforcement violated your rights.
Hit and Run
Charges stemming from a Hit and Run can be complicated. A “hit and run” is when a driver leaves the scene of a crash after causing property damage, personal injury, or even death. If someone is killed, it could be the basis of a wrongful death civil suit, but there are also criminal law charges to reckon with. If you or someone you know has been involved in a hit and run, it is important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to assess your risks and advise you on the next steps. You shouldn’t go at it alone!
Drug Crimes
These charges are related to the possession or sale of controlled substances. The consequences of a drug-related offense can be especially severe, including prison time, major fines, deportation, professional license denial or revocation, and drug screenings. Common drug-related offenses include manufacturing drugs, trafficking drugs, possessing drugs, or even possession with intent to distribute drugs. The charges and penalties will also vary based on the amount and type of drug involved. Let us help you navigate these thorny issues and give you the best defense possible.
Fraud
Fraud is the intentional deception of another to gain personally or damage another party. Fraud is a broad legal concept that can occur in both the personal and professional world. For instance, insurance fraud can be committed by the buyer by post-dating policies or exaggerating amounts of claims, or on the part of the seller for failure to submit premiums or selling policies from companies that do not exist. If you are faced with any type of fraud charge, do not hesitate to contact us to get an evaluation of your case.
Internet Crimes
Internet Crimes are among the fastest-growing crimes and are increasingly being prosecuted under the law. Law enforcement continues to treat these crimes severely, as so much of our personal and professional lives are online. When a crime occurs online, usually federal and sometimes international agencies can get involved in the investigation.
Cybercrime is extremely broad and can manifest itself in any number of ways, including electronically distributing copyrighted information, conducting illegal or fraudulent business activities online, breaking into a computer to obtain information fraudulently, or spreading computer viruses or malware. To appropriately defend yourself, you need an attorney who understands both computer technology and the laws surrounding it.
Felonies
Felonies are the most serious class of criminal charges one faces in the criminal justice system. They carry the most severe penalties, including major fines and lengthy incarceration. Felonies can include assault and battery if you are a repeat offender, so it is very important to obtain the right counsel to negotiate with the government on your behalf. A felony conviction can ruin your life and leave you with a criminal record that prevents you from voting, finding housing or employment, or obtaining a loan. When facing these charges, reach out to the Great Lakes Legal Group and we will work with you to reach the best outcome possible.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence issues can be difficult to deal with, especially since it usually involves the most personal parts of someone’s life. Domestic violence has both civil and criminal law aspects. Aside from leaving a stain on your reputation, domestic violence charges penalties can be severe, including incarceration, fines, mandatory counseling, or forced changes to child custody arrangements. Oftentimes, charges are inflated, or the facts are twisted, leading to wrongful convictions. If you are faced with these charges, do not hesitate to build your defense by calling our office.
Larceny or Theft
These charges generally involve the taking of items that belong to others. We understand how seriously law enforcement officials and prosecutors take these charges. We are equally serious about defending you. We can help explain the prosecutorial process and know tactics for acquittal, to negotiate a plea bargain, or reducing charges- depending on the circumstances.