Grand Rapids Criminal Defense Attorneys

Criminal Defense for Accusations in West MI

Being charged with a crime, whether a misdemeanor or felony, is a serious matter. Even if you are not facing jail time, having a criminal conviction on your record will limit your opportunities for employment, housing, and more. The first thing you need to do after an arrest is find a skilled Grand Rapids criminal defense attorney.

Anything you say after an arrest can be used against you, so do not try to talk to the police without an attorney present. One of your most valuable rights is the right to remain silent. Law enforcement does not want to hear your side of the story; they are listening for any inconsistencies that will make you look guilty. The Grand Rapids criminal defense lawyers at Tanis Schultz are here to fight for your rights and protect your best interests.

If you have been charged with a crime, contact our criminal defense attorney in Grand Rapids, MI today at (616) 227-3737.

Charges Our Criminal Attorneys Defend Against in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Your Grand Rapids criminal attorney has one job: protect your best interests. No matter what crime you are accused of, it is your lawyer’s duty to secure the best possible outcome. This is why it is strongly recommended that you not discuss the details of your situation with anyone other than your attorney. Even well-meaning friends and family members can end up incriminating you if called to testify. Prosecutors know how to press on ambiguous issues with witnesses and cast doubt upon a defendant’s innocence. By keeping the details private and speaking only with your criminal lawyer, you can prevent this from happening.

Cases our Grand Rapids criminal defense attorneys handle include:

• Assault
• Criminal Sexual Conduct
• Domestic Violence
• Driver’s License Restoration
• Drug Offenses
• DUI/OWI
• Expungements
• Felonies
• Juvenile Crimes
• Misdemeanors
• Property Crimes
• Resisting and Obstructing
• Theft/Embezzlement 
• Traffic
• Weapons Crimes

Misdemeanor Criminal Procedure in Grand Rapids, Michigan

The defendant may be given a chance to enter a guilty or no-contest plea. Those who enter a guilty or no-contest plea at the arraignment may be sentenced at this time, or the situation will be sent to a sentence hearing. If a sentence hearing is set, the court may ask for a pre-sentence report from the probation department. This report will provide background information and recommendations regarding the type of sentence. On the other hand, the matter will go to a pre-trial conference if a not-guilty plea is entered. Legal proceedings in Michigan demand meticulous preparation and comprehensive understanding of local laws and procedural nuances.

During a pre-trial conference, the situation and resolutions for the matter are discussed. Typically, the prosecutor will offer a “plea bargain” to the defendant as a resolution. The plea bargain can be accepted, or the judge will decide on a verdict. The prosecutor may drop the charges if the defense attorney has a strong enough case. Attentive analysis of all evidence presented at this stage is essential in order to effectively challenge the prosecution's case.

If the charges are not dropped by the prosecutor at this stage and a resolution is not agreed upon, pretrial motions may be filed by the criminal defense attorney: 

• Motion to dismiss the charge if undisputed evidence shows no crime committed
• Motion to exclude irrelevant evidence
• Motion to suppress illegally obtained evidence

If the case is not resolved through these motions, it will be set for a bench or jury trial.

Why You Need a Skilled Criminal Defense Attorney

When facing criminal charges, it is crucial to have a skilled criminal defense attorney by your side. Here at Tanis Schultz, we understand the complexities of the legal system and are committed to providing excellent defense representation for our clients in Grand Rapids, MI.

Here are some reasons why you need a skilled criminal defense attorney:

• Knowledge & Experience: Our team of experienced criminal attorneys has a deep understanding of the legal processes involved. We have successfully handled numerous criminal defense matters and can navigate the complexities of your situation.
• Protect Your Rights: A skilled criminal attorney will ensure that your constitutional rights are protected throughout the entire legal process. We will thoroughly investigate your situation, gather evidence, and challenge any violations of your rights, such as illegal searches or coerced confessions.
• Strategic Defense: Every situation is unique, and a skilled criminal attorney will develop a tailored defense strategy based on the specific circumstances. We will analyze the evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong defense to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
• Negotiation & Advocacy: Our criminal defense attorneys are skilled negotiators and can work with prosecutors to potentially reduce charges or secure favorable plea bargains. If your case goes to trial, we will vigorously advocate for your rights and present a compelling defense in front of the judge and jury.
• Peace of Mind: Facing criminal charges can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming. Having a skilled criminal attorney by your side can provide you with peace of mind, knowing you have a dedicated advocate fighting for your rights and working towards the best possible outcome.

Don't risk your future and freedom. Contact Tanis Schultz today to schedule a consultation with a skilled criminal defense attorney in Grand Rapids who will protect your rights and provide you with the strong defense you deserve.

Representation for Your Criminal Case in Michigan

At Tanis Schultz, our Grand Rapids criminal defense lawyers fight aggressively to secure the best possible outcome. What this looks like is different for everyone. Some clients can secure a complete dismissal of charges, while others might have serious felonies reduced to misdemeanors. We work closely with our clients through every stage of the matter, making sure they understand how their situation is proceeding to help our clients make informed decisions.

The Importance of Local Criminal Defense Lawyers

Choosing a local lawyer in Grand Rapids provides distinct benefits. Our familiarity with local judicial procedures enhances our ability to provide effective representation. We understand the priorities and tendencies of local judges and prosecutors, allowing us to develop strategies that are most likely to succeed in the Grand Rapids area. For example, prosecutors here might push harder on certain charges, making it crucial to have attorneys experienced in negotiating these types of cases effectively. Our team at Tanis Schultz is deeply rooted in the community, and this connection is a valuable asset as we advocate for your rights and work towards favorable resolutions.

Contact our criminal defense attorneys in Grand Rapids, MI today: (616) 227-3737!

Recommended Reading:

• Fighting Retail Fraud Charges in Grand Rapids, Michigan
• Michigan's Domestic Violence Third Offense Charge Explained
• Michigan Law Changes Minor in Possession to a Civil Infraction
• Criminal Sexual Conduct in Michigan   

Criminal Defense FAQ

Is Probation Different from Parole?

A probationary period is different from a parole period. Parole is a shorter period of time in jail than probation, while probation takes the place of prison. You can suspend your jail time on probation if you comply with certain conditions. Checking in regularly with a probation officer, attending rehab programs, and attending work/school are some examples of these terms. People who have already served a portion of their jail sentence can apply for parole to complete their sentence outside of jail.

Do I Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer if I Plan on Pleading Guilty?

Yes. Regardless of how you wish to plead, it is extremely important that you have a legal advocate on your side to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the duration of your case. It is never a good idea for an accused person to forego legal representation and attempt to represent themselves in court. With so much at stake, and with experienced prosecutors seeking the highest possible penalties for the accused, it is not worth the risk not to hire a criminal attorney. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you seek the most favorable resolution for your situation, whether that means pursuing a lighter sentence or a complete dismissal of charges.

Should I Talk to the Police After an Arrest?

No! It is important to politely decline to answer any questions, remain silent, and consult with an attorney as soon as possible after your arrest. Remember that everything you say to police can and will be used to build a case against you, so don't provide any statements to police without first speaking with a criminal lawyer. Keeping communication limited and professional can significantly aid in forming a substantive defense strategy. 

What Should I Do Immediately After an Arrest?

After an arrest, the crucial initial step is to remain calm and collected. Exercise your right to remain silent, providing only basic identifying information to law enforcement. Politely request to speak with a lawyer before engaging in any further dialogue with police officers. Contact Tanis Schultz as soon as possible to secure representation and receive specific guidance tailored to your circumstances. Your actions during this early stage can significantly influence the legal process.

Collect any evidence that might support your defense as soon as you can. This can include eyewitness contacts, photographs, or anything relevant to your case. Ensuring you have accurate details and documentation can be invaluable when building your defense strategy. Our criminal defense attorneys in Grand Rapids can assist you in preparing for subsequent legal procedures, ensuring your rights are upheld throughout.

What Are My Rights During Police Interrogation?

During police interrogations, it's critical to know your rights. You are entitled to remain silent and have the right to an attorney. This means, at any point during questioning, you can refuse to answer questions until your legal representative is present. Expression of these rights should be clear and consistent, reducing vulnerability to coercion or pressure from law enforcement.

Having a criminal lawyer from Tanis Schultz with you during interrogations helps protect against inappropriate questioning tactics and ensures that your responses, if any, do not inadvertently harm your legal stance. Our criminal defense lawyers in Grand Rapids will offer guidance specific to your situation, allowing for carefully considered responses, while prioritizing your legal protections and best interests throughout every inquiry.