Criminal Law in Oakland County

Criminal law is a category of law that broadly refers to state and federal laws that make certain crimes punishable by imprisonment and fines. Criminal cases deal with violation of criminal statutes as provided for in the law in Oakland County. Each state has a penal code that outlines crimes, charges against those crimes and penalties. Criminal cases are essentially felonies and face at least a jail time of more than one year. Oakland County criminal defense attorney represent persons charged with crimes in court.

Common Criminal Charges in Oakland County and Their Penalties

Criminal charges are either treated as felonies or capital crimes. Capital crimes are punishable by death while felonies by more than a year of imprisonment. Besides imprisonment, convicts can face more penalties. These include: restitution and fines.

Notably, criminal charges in Oakland County are not eligible for parole, probation or community service.  Convicts have to face jail time and other penalties.

Criminal charges are filed by the government against the perpetrator. The prosecution has to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the defendant is guilty and consequently convict the defendant. Once convicted, the defendant is subject to either custodial or non custodial punishment or both. Criminal charges are tried by superior court in a jury trial.

Criminal law stipulates timelines for charging a criminal suspect. It also abolished the death penalty as a punishment to any criminal charges in Oakland. A defendant may appeal a court verdict resulting to retrial of the case.

Penalties for criminal charges are served on the basis of the degree of crime as follows;

·         First degree crimes: The accused are served the direst penalties. Imprisonment for at least 10 years and up to a lifetime imprisonment. Hefty fines up to $200,000.

·         Second degree crimes:  5 – 10 years of jail time and fines up to $150,000

·         Third degree crimes: 3-5 years of imprisonment and fines up to $15,000

·         Fourth degree crimes: Up to 18 months of imprisonment and fines up to $10,000

Penalties are more severe for offenders with past criminal records.

Oakland County Criminal Defense Attorney

Once charged with a criminal offense, the accused is faced with a challenging responsibility to prove their innocence. Criminal attorneys provide legal advice to the accused. They also prepare a defense case for the accused, collecting evidence and presenting witnesses and arguing against the prosecutor to prove the innocence of the defendant. They represent defendants in the court trial and appeal for a retrial if the court sentence is unsatisfactory.

An Oakland County criminal defense attorney fully understands both the state and federal laws. They have the best chance of creating a solid defense plan for the accused that can lead to dismissal of charges or lead to less serious trials. A criminal defense attorney works hard to protect the rights of the accused.

The best defense attorneys are experienced in practicing criminal law. They are comfortable in the courtroom and articulate their arguments on the court floor effectively. An excellent defense attorney can mean the difference between hefty fines and penalties or none at all for individuals faced with criminal charges.

Criminal convictions have long-term ramifications on the reputation of a convict. The criminal records show up on background checks, making it difficult for them to find jobs even after serving jail time. People faced with criminal charges hire criminal defense attorneys to represent them in court and offer solid legal advice.