Michigan Criminal Defense Attorney
Being accused of a crime is one of the most serious situations a person can face. The consequences — jail or prison time, a permanent criminal record, loss of employment, damage to your reputation and family — can follow you for the rest of your life. At Jalal Abdallah Law PLLC, we provide aggressive, dedicated criminal defense representation for individuals facing charges across Southfield, Detroit, Dearborn, and all of Michigan.
Our team fights for clients at every stage of the criminal process — from investigation and arraignment through trial and post-conviction relief. We handle a wide range of criminal matters, from misdemeanors to serious felony offenses, and we treat every case with the full weight of preparation and advocacy it deserves.
Criminal Cases We Handle in Michigan
Jalal Abdallah Law represents clients facing a broad spectrum of criminal charges in Michigan, including:
- Drunk driving and OWI/DUI — including first offense, second offense, felony OWI, and Super Drunk (BAC .17 or above)
- Drug offenses — possession, delivery, manufacturing, and trafficking
- Assault and battery — misdemeanor and felony assault charges
- Theft, larceny, and property crimes
- Domestic violence charges
- Weapons offenses
- Criminal sexual conduct
- Probation and parole violations
- White collar crimes and fraud
- Juvenile offenses
- Expungement and record clearing under Michigan’s Clean Slate Law
Misdemeanors vs. Felonies in Michigan
Michigan law divides criminal offenses into two primary categories. Understanding the distinction matters because the consequences, court procedures, and stakes differ significantly between them.
Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors are less severe offenses handled primarily in district court. Michigan misdemeanors carry a maximum penalty of up to one year in county jail and fines up to $1,000, depending on the offense. Common misdemeanor charges include first-offense OWI, simple assault, petty theft, and disorderly conduct. Even though misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, a conviction still results in a criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing.
Felonies
Felonies are serious crimes carrying more than one year in state prison. Michigan classifies felonies into nine classes — from Class H (least severe, often resulting in probation or community service) through Class A and Class M2 (most severe, including second-degree murder). First-degree murder carries a mandatory sentence of life without parole. Michigan’s habitual offender laws can significantly increase penalties for repeat offenders, with sentence enhancements ranging from 1.5 times to life imprisonment depending on prior conviction history.
The Michigan Criminal Process — What to Expect
Investigation
Many criminal cases begin before any arrest is made. If police consider you a suspect, you have constitutional rights — including the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Exercising these rights immediately, before any questioning, is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your case.
Arraignment
Your arraignment is your first formal court appearance. In misdemeanor cases, you may enter a plea — guilty, not guilty, or no contest — at arraignment. In felony cases, a not guilty plea is typically entered and the case proceeds to a Probable Cause Conference within approximately seven days, followed by a Preliminary Examination within 14 days of arraignment. At the Preliminary Examination, the court determines whether sufficient evidence exists to bind the case over to circuit court for trial.
Pre-Trial Proceedings
Before trial, your attorney investigates the case, reviews all evidence, files pre-trial motions to challenge improper evidence or constitutional violations, and engages the prosecution in plea negotiations. Many cases are resolved at this stage through charge reductions or favorable plea agreements — but only when negotiated from a position of preparation and strength.
Trial
If your case proceeds to trial, you have the right to a jury trial for most charges. Misdemeanor juries consist of six jurors; felony juries consist of twelve — and verdicts must be unanimous. Our attorneys cross-examine prosecution witnesses, challenge the government’s evidence, and present a compelling defense on your behalf.
Sentencing
If convicted, Michigan courts use sentencing guidelines that consider the severity of the offense, your prior record, and mitigating or aggravating factors. A Pre-Sentence Investigation Report (PSIR) prepared by a probation officer influences the sentence significantly. Your attorney advocates at sentencing for the most favorable outcome — including alternatives to incarceration such as probation, treatment programs, or community service where available.
Post-Conviction Relief
A conviction is not always the end of the road. We pursue appeals based on legal errors made during trial, motions for sentence modification, and post-conviction motions where grounds exist. We also assist eligible clients with expungement under Michigan’s Clean Slate Law — which allows misdemeanors to be set aside after three years, non-violent felonies after five years, and multiple felonies after seven years — giving you a genuine fresh start.
Your Rights Begin the Moment You Are Accused
The single most consequential decision you make after being arrested or learning you are under investigation is whether to speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. Do not do it. Anything you say — even in an attempt to cooperate or explain yourself — can and will be used against you in court. Exercise your right to remain silent and contact Jalal Abdallah Law immediately.
We offer a free, confidential consultation. The sooner we are involved, the more options we have to protect you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am arrested or charged with a crime in Michigan?
Exercise your right to remain silent immediately and request an attorney before answering any questions. Do not speak to police, prosecutors, or anyone else about the facts of your case without legal representation present. Contact Jalal Abdallah Law as soon as possible — the earlier we get involved, the more we can do to protect you. This applies whether you have been formally charged, believe you are under investigation, or have simply been asked to come in for questioning.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Michigan?
Misdemeanors are less severe offenses punishable by up to one year in county jail and handled in district court. Felonies are serious offenses carrying more than one year in state prison, classified from Class H (least severe) through Class A and Class M2 (most severe). Both result in a criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional opportunities. The court procedures also differ significantly — felony cases involve a Probable Cause Conference and Preliminary Examination before proceeding to circuit court, while misdemeanors are typically resolved in district court.
Will my criminal case go to trial?
Not necessarily. Many criminal cases in Michigan are resolved through pre-trial negotiations — including charge reductions, plea agreements to lesser offenses, or in some cases dismissal — without ever reaching trial. We explore every avenue before recommending a path forward. If trial is the best option for your case, our attorneys are experienced litigators prepared to fight for you before a judge or jury. We never recommend a plea unless it genuinely serves your interests.
What is a preliminary examination in a Michigan felony case?
A preliminary examination is a hearing in district court — held within 14 days of arraignment — where the prosecution must present sufficient evidence to establish probable cause that a crime was committed and that you may have committed it. If the court finds probable cause, the case is bound over to circuit court for trial. If it does not, the charges may be reduced or dismissed. This hearing is a critical opportunity for your defense attorney to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and expose weaknesses in their case before trial.
Can a felony charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in Michigan?
Yes, in many cases. Felony charges can be reduced to misdemeanors through plea bargaining, pre-trial motions that successfully challenge the prosecution’s evidence, or at the preliminary examination stage if probable cause for the felony cannot be established. The outcome depends on the specific charges, the evidence, and the strength of your defense. An experienced attorney evaluates every opportunity to reduce the severity of charges and the consequences you face.
Can I get a criminal conviction expunged in Michigan?
Michigan’s Clean Slate Law allows many convictions to be set aside and removed from your public criminal record. Misdemeanors become eligible after three years, non-violent felonies after five years, and multiple felonies after seven years. Certain serious offenses — including crimes involving minors, major felonies, and traffic offenses — are not eligible. Automatic expungement also applies to some misdemeanors after seven years without a new conviction. Jalal Abdallah Law reviews your record and advises whether you qualify and how to proceed.
What happens if I violate probation or parole in Michigan?
A probation or parole violation is a serious matter. If found in violation, you face up to the maximum possible sentence for the original underlying offense — meaning a probation violation on a felony could result in state prison time. Probation officers have broad authority, and not all violations are intentional or clear-cut. An attorney can challenge the alleged violation, present mitigating circumstances, and advocate for the least severe consequence possible at the violation hearing.
Why Choose Jalal Abdallah Law?
At Jalal Abdallah Law, we redefine personal injury representation through our extensive experience, compassionate approach, and commitment to our clients' needs. Operating on a contingency fee basis, we empower clients by eliminating upfront costs, ensuring we fight tirelessly for their justice. Trust in our dedication to winning the best outcomes for those who need it most.
Highly Experienced
Our personal injury lawyers have years of experience and have handled a wide variety of cases, from car accidents to slip-and-falls. You can trust us to know how to handle your case.
Personalized Attention
We treat each client as an individual, not just a case number. We take the time to listen to your concerns and answer any questions you may have. You can count on us to be there for you every step of the way.
No Upfront Fees
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means that you don't have to pay anything upfront. We only get paid if we win your case, so you can trust that we will work hard to get you the best possible outcome.
Compassionate Representation
We understand that being injured can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. That's why we provide compassionate representation to help ease your worries and guide you through the legal process.
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