Michigan has three different types of misdemeanor charges including those punishable by a maximum of 93 days in jail, those punishable by up to a year in jail, and what’s called a “high court misdemeanor” that’s punishable by up to two years in prison. High court misdemeanors fall under the same guidelines as a final charge and ultimately are handled in Circuit Court (not District Court).
Bear in mind that in Michigan a misdemeanor is a criminal offense—not a civil offense. In addition to jail or prison time, a misdemeanor can result in fines, community service, probation, and a conviction on your records. In some cases, a misdemeanor conviction can stop you from staying in the country if you’re an immigrant, impede your ability to get a job, keep you from owning firearms, and even stop you from undertaking certain jobs.
What are Misdemeanor Charges?
There are many types of misdemeanors in Michigan, including domestic violence and aggravated assault. Breaking and entering (or illegal entry) is a misdemeanor, as is driving with a suspended license. A DUI (driving under the influence), operating a vehicle while impaired or intoxicated, or operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content above the legal limit are all misdemeanors. Embezzlement can be considered a misdemeanor if the amount is under $1,000. There’s also indecent exposure, larceny if the property is valued under $1,000, and malicious destruction of property valued under $1,000.
If you receive or hide stolen property valued under $1,000, that’s also a misdemeanor. Retail fraud (shoplifting) of items valued under $1,000 is a misdemeanor, and there are even traffic misdemeanors like drag racing, failure to stop, and reckless driving. Juveniles, children under the age of 17, can also be charged with misdemeanors.
What You Can Do About Misdemeanors
There are many potentially negative consequences to a misdemeanor, but you have options, and a criminal attorney can help you avoid jail time. The evidence related to your case is closely analyzed by attorneys to pinpoint any and all possible defenses. When you work with an attorney you’ll be told all of your options, the odds of winning at a trial, and be provided with recommendations related to plea deals.
A criminal attorney has a number of ways to reduce and even avoid any impacts of a criminal charge. You might have a case with a high likelihood of acquittal or dismissal. This happens when the prosecutor can’t provide sufficient evidence of your case. If there is strong evidence for your case, a negotiation might be possible so you can avoid more severe consequences related to a misdemeanor. These plea bargains can lead to more favorable outcomes.
The best thing you can do if you’re facing a misdemeanor charge is to connect with a reputable criminal defense attorney right away. Only these experts can present your case in the best manner and determine what the best approach is for your unique situation. Learn more by contacting Defense Coverage today.