Criminal Defense Lawyer in Grand Rapids, MI
When you’ve been accused of a misdemeanor or felony in Michigan, you need a strong legal team in your corner. At Barrix Law Firm, our Grand Rapids criminal defense lawyer has the knowledge, experience, and legal strategies needed to protect your future.
Contact us today to schedule your free criminal defense consultation.
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Delivering Client-Focused Representation Across West MI
If you are facing criminal charges, do not attempt to navigate the complex legal system on your own. You have rights, and an experienced criminal defense lawyer can help to protect them. If you’ve been arrested, are under investigation, or are interested in having a past conviction expunged from your record, contact us today to schedule a free, confidential consultation.
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Our Criminal Defense Practice Areas
Learn More About the Criminal Defense Cases We Handle
Fighting charges of operating while intoxicated (OWI) requires aggressive representation, even if it’s your first offense. We offer proven strategies that are designed to protect your rights and lessen potential penalties against you. In some cases, we have successfully challenged the results of breathalyzer equipment and field sobriety tests to get the charges dropped. See how we can help today.
Many types of situations can result in losing your driver’s license, including drunk driving convictions, medical reasons, and serious moving violations. While Michigan typically revokes driver’s licenses for 1-5 years, we know how to get yours back. If you’re ready to have your driving privileges restored, contact us to learn more about the process.
There are 2 sides to every story, and we’re ready to hear yours. While the evidence may be stacked against you, everything may not be as it seems. Many people have faced false or exaggerated accusations in similar situations. We’re equipped to investigate your case and bring the truth to light.
If you’re facing a murder or manslaughter charge, don’t waste time. Get in touch with our team as soon as possible. Undoubtedly, the prosecution is already building their case against you. Contact us now to start building your defense.
Have you been accused of stealing from a person, business, or employer? We’re here to gather evidence and protect your rights. If you’re facing charges of larceny, retail fraud, or breaking and entering, schedule a free consultation. We’ll start working to protect your rights.
Allegations of criminal sexual conduct are never taken lightly. If you have been accused of a sex crime, we can help to protect your rights and reputation. Whether you’re facing charges of rape, indecent exposure, solicitation, or pornography, we’re here to help.
Misdemeanor and Felony Charges in Michigan
With over 32 years of experience in the criminal justice system, we understand the weight of criminal charges and are committed to building a strong, personalized legal defense. We have extensive experience handling a variety of criminal cases for local clients, including drunk driving, violent crimes, criminal sexual conduct, theft, and more. Learn more about the most common types of criminal offenses below.
Misdemeanor Offenses
Misdemeanors are less serious than felonies. However, they can still result in severe consequences, including county jail time, fines, and probation. Michigan law outlines 3 types of misdemeanors based on their maximum allowable penalties:
| Crime Classification | Potential Penalty | Case Example |
| 93-Day Misdemeanor | Up to 93 days in jail and a fine up to $500 | Trespassing Simple assault and battery Disorderly conduct |
| 1-Year Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year in jail and a fine up to $1,000 | First-offense domestic violence Second-offense OWI First-offense larceny between $200-$1,000 |
| High Court Misdemeanor (treated as a felony) | Up to 2 years in prison and a fine up to $2,000 | Possession of a firearm with unlawful intent Fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct |
Felony Offenses
Many moderate to serious criminal offences are classified as felonies in Michigan. Potential penalties range from a year to life in prison. Felonies are classified based on the maximum sentence associated with specific crimes.
| Crime Classification | Potential Penalty | Case Example |
| Class H Felony | Variable, jail or sanctions | Financial crimes Possession of a controlled substance |
| Class G Felony | Up to 2 years in prison | Second-offense domestic assault Third-degree child abuse |
| Class F Felony | Up to 4 years in prison | Assault with a dangerous weapon Theft from a motor vehicle |
| Class E Felony | Up to 5 years in prison | Third-offense OWI Third-degree home invasion Welfare/public assistance fraud |
| Class D Felony | Up to 10 years in prison | Unarmed robbery Human trafficking |
| Class C Felony | Up to 15 years in prison | Manslaughter Armed robbery Fatal DUI accident |
| Class B Felony | Up to 20 years in prison | Second-degree murder Explosives-related offenses |
| Class A Felony | Up to life in prison | First-degree murder Kidnapping |
This is not an exhaustive list of potential penalties. A felony conviction can also affect certain civil liberties, such as the right to vote or own a firearm. Additional penalties, such as electronic monitoring or sex offender registration, may also be required depending on the nature of the alleged crime.
Understanding the Criminal Justice Process in Michigan
Navigating the criminal justice system can be intimidating, especially when you don’t know what to expect. In Kent County and other communities in Michigan, misdemeanors involving local ordinances are handled by city prosecutors. All other misdemeanor and felony charges based on the state penal code are handled by county prosecutors. Here’s an overview of the steps that criminal cases may go through:
- Arrest and Booking: After an arrest, you will be processed or booked at a local police station or detention facility. A bond amount may be set automatically or in court, usually 24-48 hours after the arrest.
- Initial Appearance and Arraignment: At your first court appearance, you will be informed of the charges against you and advised of your legal rights. You can plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest, which determines the next steps in your case.
- Pre-Trial Motions and Hearings: Your attorney will investigate the case and may file various pre-trial motions in your defense. This can include a motion to dismiss charges, reduce your bond, or suppress evidence that was improperly collected or handled.
- Plea Bargaining: In many cases, it's possible to have charges reduced or negotiate a lighter sentence. It often depends on the evidence and the type of crime. In past cases, prosecutors have dismissed charges or declined to bring charges after considering the evidence we provided.
- Trial: If a plea agreement cannot be reached or if you choose not to accept the offer, your case will proceed to trial. Both the prosecution and the defense will present evidence, question witnesses, and make arguments before a judge or jury. Our experienced litigator offers aggressive representation during this phase of your case.
- Sentencing: If you are convicted, the judge will determine the appropriate penalties. Michigan’s sentencing guidelines often allow for a wide range of outcomes, including fines, probation, and jail time. Our goal is to minimize these consequences at every stage.
Diversion Programs and Expungement
In some cases, a criminal charge doesn't have to mean a permanent record. Michigan law provides several alternatives to help you avoid a conviction or have charges erased from your record.
For some offenses, particularly for first-time offenders, it may be possible to enter a diversion program. These programs often involve community service, drug/alcohol counseling, or probation as an alternative to incarceration.
Upon successful completion of the program without further infractions, the charges may be dismissed entirely. We can assess your criminal record and pending charges to see if you qualify.
If you have been convicted of a criminal offense in the past, you may be able to have certain misdemeanor or felony charges expunged from your record under Michigan's "Clean Slate" laws.
An expungement can clear your public record, giving you a fresh start and removing barriers to employment and housing. Starting in 2023, certain misdemeanors or felonies are automatically expunged after 7-10 years. Contact us today to see if you’re eligible for expungement.
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Why Choose Barrix Law Firm for Your Case?
When your future is on the line, it’s important to select the right attorney to represent you. We understand that you have many lawyers to choose from. Ideally, you want someone who has proven results and substantial experience dealing with the particular charges that you’re facing. Here’s why local clients choose Barrix Law Firm and recommend us to their friends and family.
- Local Knowledge: With law offices in Grand Rapids and Grand Haven, we have an in-depth understanding of the local courts, prosecutors, and ordinances that could affect the outcome of your case.
- Extensive Experience: We have over 32 years of legal experience with an emphasis on handling criminal defense cases in West Michigan. We know what to expect and how to build the strongest defense for your case.
- Personalized Legal Services: When you work with an independent law office like Barrix Law Firm, you are not just a case number. We take the time to understand your personal situation, answer your questions, and develop legal strategies tailored to your needs.
- Proven Results: As attorneys, we have an ethical duty to achieve the best possible outcome for every client. Our proactive approach has led to dismissed charges and favorable results for clients in Kent County and across the state.
- Free Consultations and Value Billing: We offer free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your case. We believe in transparent value billing that allows you to focus on your defense without the surprise of hourly legal fees.
Our Client-First Approach to Criminal Cases
Each case is unique and may require a different defense strategy based on the facts of the incident and what corroborating or exculpatory evidence is available. We’ll listen to your side of the story and work to develop a personalized defense strategy that considers your best interests. Here’s what we offer.
- Initial Consultation: Each criminal defense case that we handle starts with a consultation. We’ll listen to your story, evaluate the details of your case, and explain your legal rights and options.
- Protecting Your Rights: From the moment you hire us, we ensure that your constitutional rights are protected. If you are being interrogated by law enforcement, we will be by your side, advising you every step of the way.
- Thorough Investigation: Whether you’re dealing with false accusations or legal overreach, we’ll get to the bottom of the issue. Our team will review the evidence, identify inconsistencies, and fight to exclude any items that were collected unlawfully.
- Aggressive Defense: We’ll work aggressively to protect your rights during each phase of the case from pre-trial proceedings to plea bargaining. If a trial is necessary, Jason Barrix is an experienced litigator who will fight aggressively for you in court.
Grand Rapids Criminal Defense FAQs
Regardless of why you’re being held, the most important thing to do is remain silent and state that you wish to speak to your attorney. In general, it’s wise to avoid answering questions, consenting to searches, or signing any statements without a lawyer present. Contact our offices in Grand Rapids or Grand Haven for immediate assistance.
Your initial consultation provides an opportunity to discuss the facts of your case in a private, fully confidential setting. We’ll review the evidence, explain potential outcomes, and outline possible strategies for a strong defense. There’s no charge for your first consultation, and anything you say is protected by attorney-client privilege regardless of whether you hire us to represent you.
It depends on the type of charges and a variety of other factors. Most individuals who are accused of crimes in Grand Rapids are held at a local police department or transferred to the Kent County Correctional Facility. Our Grand Rapids criminal defense lawyer may be able to negotiate a reasonable bond or allow for you to be released on your own recognizance while your case is pending. Contact us to learn more about your options.
Kent County has 1 circuit court and 5 district courts that handle criminal matters. The 17th Circuit Court in Grand Rapids is responsible for handling all felony cases after preliminary proceedings. Arraignments and misdemeanors are handled in local district courts, including the 61st District Court in Grand Rapids. The 59th District Court serves Grandville and Walker, District 62-A serves Wyoming, and 62-B serves Kentwood. All surrounding communities in Kent County are under the jurisdiction of the 63rd District Court.
Schedule a Free Legal Consultation
Being arrested is one thing, but being charged or convicted is another. No matter what happens, remember that you have rights, and you are innocent until proven guilty. At Barrix Law Firm, we understand that you’re worried about your future and concerned about what could be in store during the legal process. Don’t face the criminal justice system alone.
If you have been arrested, are under investigation, or have found yourself in another situation that warrants a criminal defense attorney, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We offer free initial consultations, and we’re available to answer your questions 24/7. We serve clients in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and communities across Michigan. Contact us today, and let us know how we can help.
