In Michigan, any serious crime for which the possible maximum sentence is more than one year in prison is considered a “felony.” Felonies are the most serious crimes that a person can face in the state of Michigan. Generally, felonies include but are not limited to the following:

• Homicide
• Assault and battery
• Larceny
• Robbery
• Home invasion
• Burglary
• Weapon possession
• Sale or possession of controlled substances
• Automobile theft
• Operating while intoxicated, third offense
• Embezzlement

Convictions For Felony Charges Carry Harsh Penalties

All felonies are extremely serious crimes and anyone facing a felony charge needs a criminal defense attorney who will examine and investigate the details of the allegation, who will fight to suppress evidence brought against you, who will aggressively and effectively negotiate with the prosecution, and who will bring your case to trial if necessary.

Our attorneys at Gordon & Hess, PLC, will make your case a priority and develop a winning strategy from the start. Make the right choice from the beginning and let us at Gordon & Hess, PLC, protect you or your loved one facing a felony charge.

Your Felony Questions, Answered

Below, we’ve provided answers to some frequently asked questions about felony charges in Michigan.

What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Michigan?

The primary differences between a felony and a misdemeanor are the severity of the crime and the potential penalties. As mentioned above, felonies are considered serious offenses carrying potential prison terms of at least one year and significant fines.

A felony conviction will also have a lasting or even permanent impact on your criminal record. Once the “convicted felon” label is attached, it could impact numerous aspects of your life, including the right to vote and the right to own firearms.

By contrast, misdemeanors are less severe and usually involve penalties such as fines, probation or jail time of less than a year. While there can be noncriminal consequences associated with a misdemeanor conviction, they are likely to be less damaging than a felony on your record.

Can I get a felony charge reduced to a misdemeanor in Michigan?

It is sometimes possible to have a felony charge reduced to a misdemeanor through a process called plea bargaining. This involves negotiations between your attorney and the prosecution to potentially lessen the charge in exchange for a guilty plea or other terms.

Factors such as your criminal history, the specifics of the offense and the available evidence play a role in this process. Regardless of whether you want to fight the charges or take a plea deal, an experienced defense attorney can usually produce more favorable results than you could achieve on your own.

How long does a felony stay on your record in Michigan?

A felony conviction typically remains on your record for life. However, Michigan law allows for the possibility of expungement, which essentially erases a criminal record or sealing, which can remove a conviction from your public record. Qualifying for either often involves a waiting period, during which you will need to avoid further legal trouble.

Recent legal changes have made more individuals eligible for expungement. The waiting period and criteria for expungement vary depending on the offense, so it’s beneficial to speak with a legal professional to understand your specific options.

Will I go to prison if convicted of a felony in Michigan?

If you are convicted of a felony in Michigan, there is a possibility of a prison sentence, but it depends on several factors. These include the nature of the felony, your prior criminal history and the details of your case. Some felonies come with mandatory minimum sentences, while others might offer alternative sentencing options like probation. Each case is unique, and a knowledgeable attorney can provide further guidance relevant to your case.

Contact Our Criminal Defense Team Now

Email us or call us at 616-369-7452 for a confidential consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney. No matter the charges, we will fight to protect your rights. We are here for you whether you are facing a felony charge or an arrest for suspicion of a misdemeanor. You can also give us a call to discuss your legal options for restoring your driver’s license or clearing your background record.