Need a criminal defense attorney in Macomb County? Facing criminal charges and aren’t sure about your rights? Well, read on as this article was tailor-made for you.

This goes without saying, facing criminal charges can be devastating. The situation can become even more daunting if you are facing an arrest and have no idea what your rights are. Whether it is a misdemeanor or felony, it is imperative to understand that you as an American citizen have some fundamental rights.

Being aware of these rights can protect you from severe legal persecution. Unfortunately, most people still don’t know what their rights are and what they are supposed to do when facing a criminal charge.

If you are one of those people, then this article is for you. We’ll provide valuable insight into Michigan’s criminal law, shed light on your fundamental rights, and give advice on how to protect yourself when the need arises.

So, let’s start with what you expect from a typical criminal court process in the state of Michigan. 

Michigan’s Criminal Court Process Explained

1. Arrest

A typical criminal court proceeding begins with an arrest or booking. After the accused is arrested, they are taken into custody, where they are booked for the crime committed. This is where personal details and information related to the crime are recorded.

Arrest is a critical first step in any criminal court proceeding. As such, it is highly recommended that you contact the best criminal defense attorney immediately.

2. Arraignment

Arraignment entails the first court appearance of the accused. During an arraignment, the accused will be informed of their legal rights, and the charges against them will be formally read. It is also during this stage that a plea is entered. The accused will be asked to plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest.

You must clearly understand your rights before arraignment. A good criminal defense attorney can provide the guidance necessary during this crucial step.

3. Bail

In most cases, the court will set bail. Bail refers to a financial amount that the accused must serve as collateral. It serves as an assurance that the accused will return to the court whenever summoned in the future. The conditions for bail and the amount asked will vary and depend on the nature of the case.

4. Pretrial Process

A pretrial will involve multiple hearings and motions. A lawyer will use the pre-trial phase as an opportunity to negotiate with the prosecution for plea bargains or any other deal that could be favorable to you. You’ll need a good lawyer with effective communication skills to negotiate on your behalf.

5. Preliminary Examination

Preliminary examinations are usually conducted for felony charges. A preliminary hearing is often held to determine whether there is enough evidence to push the matter to trial. It is also during this phase that your attorney will need to challenge the evidence presented against you.

6. Pretrial Conference

This is the final phase, where a meeting between the prosecution, judge, and defense will take place to discuss key details about the case. Here, the lawyer will make their final attempt to resolve the issue through negotiations and avoid a trial altogether.

7. Trial

If the pre-trial arrangement does not work, the case will go to court, where your fate will be decided by the judge and jury. You’ll need a lawyer who will aggressively defend you in court in a bid to yield a judgment that falls in your favor. A typical trial will entail opening statements, witness testimonials, cross-examination, and closing arguments.

8. Verdict

After the closing arguments have been heard, the jury will move to deliberate on everything that was presented in front of them in the court. The jury will deliberate to proclaim whether you are guilty or not guilty.

9. Sentencing

If pronounced guilty, the judge will schedule a sentencing of your punishment. The judge will consider multiple factors to pass a sentence that’s reasonable and fair.

10. Appeal

All is not lost once a sentence has been announced. You still could appeal the judgment. However, appeal can be complicated. For a smoother appeals process, it is important to have a good criminal defense attorney by your side.

At first glance, the entire process may seem intimidating. However, with the right legal representation from the best criminal defense attorney in Macolm Count, you can expect a smoother, less stressful experience.

Understanding Your Rights

Knowing your rights and exercising them appropriately can make all the difference when facing a criminal charge. Following are the legal rights that are granted to you by the US Constitution and Michigan law:

1. Right to Remain Silent

Just remember that you have the right to remain silent and refuse to answer any questions put forth by the arresting law-enforcement officials. It is in your best interest to remain silent until your attorney is by your side.

2. Right to Legal Representation

According to the US Constitution, you have the right to an attorney. If you can’t afford one, the court will appoint one for you. While criminal defense attorney fees aren’t exactly cheap, moving forward with your case without legal representation will end up costing you a lot more.

3. Right to Due Process

Every persecuted individual in America has the right to a fair and speedy trial. You have the right to cross-examine witnesses, present evidence, and testify at your behest.

4. Presumption of Innocence

The burden of proof will always fall on the prosecution. You will be presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The Bottom Line

The day you are staring at criminal charges could be the darkest moment of your life. At Coppins Law Group, we are home to the best criminal defense attorney in Macolm County, whose job is to ensure these clouds of darkness don’t follow you for the rest of your life. If a criminal charge is brought against you, we suggest you act immediately and remember your rights.

Invoke your right to remain silent, immediately get an attorney, work with your attorney to gather evidence that proves your innocence and evaluate your options. Most importantly, educate yourself about the laws in your state.

Considering the cost of criminal defense attorneys, most people make the mistake of not even consulting one. At Coppins Law Group, we allow you to consult our attorneys for free during the initial meeting. We suggest you take advantage of this privilege to get expert advice and explore your options.

With the trusted law firm of Coppins Law Group by your side, you have the best chance of protecting yourself from severe consequences.