Results

These criminal defense case results show outcomes our firm has obtained for clients in Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne County courts. Each result below is grouped by type of case and lists the court where it was handled. Many involve charges dismissed at the preliminary exam, felonies reduced to misdemeanors, or investigations that ended with no charges filed. Every case is different, and past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Recent Results Obtained by Our Firm

Criminal Defense Case Results by Practice Area

Jump to: DUI/OWI · Drug Crimes · Violent Crimes · Domestic Violence · Weapons & Firearms · Theft & Fraud · Sex Crimes · Juvenile · Criminal Investigations · Probation Violations · Driving & License · Other Cases

DUI/OWI Case Results

Drunk driving, high-BAC, and felony OWI charges, plus license appeals. Learn more about our DUI/OWI defense. Facing a felony? Read our guide to third offense OWI.

OWI With High BAC Reduced to OWVI, No Jail — Brownstown

Our client was arrested by Brownstown police for OWI with a high BAC after her car struck a parked, occupied police vehicle while she was distracted by fireworks. No one was injured, but the police car was damaged. Facing difficult facts, she followed our plan: a substance abuse evaluation, intensive treatment, and mitigation showing she was in a personal crisis at the time. The charge was reduced to operating while visibly impaired (OWVI). Because she was already completing extensive court-ordered supervision and classes in another matter, the court respected her decision not to enter Sobriety Court. Judge McNally imposed no jail, with probation and treatment.

33rd District Court — Woodhaven, Wayne County

OWI Reduced to a Civil Infraction After a Breath Test Challenge — Plymouth

Our client was stopped for running a red light and charged with OWI after a breath test showed a .13 BAC. He admitted drinking, but he performed fairly well on the field sobriety tests. After reviewing the audio and video, we found several problems with the breath test. First, the officer cleaned his hands with alcohol-based hand sanitizer and then handled the mouthpiece with his bare hands several times while our client had trouble giving a sample. Second, Michigan’s breath-testing rules require officers to watch a person for at least 15 minutes before the test, and the person must not regurgitate during that time. The video showed our client burping and regurgitating only minutes before the test. After we filed a motion to suppress the breath test, the prosecutor offered a reduction to careless driving, a civil infraction, and our client accepted.

35th District Court — Plymouth, Wayne County

High-BAC OWI Reduced to a Careless Driving Civil Infraction After a Blood Draw Was Challenged — Warren

Our client was stopped for a traffic violation. He took the field sobriety tests but declined the roadside breath test, and he was arrested and later charged with high-BAC OWI. He agreed to a blood draw, but he fainted while the nurse was drawing his blood. Staff treated him for the fainting spell and kept drawing blood at the same time. We argued that his consent ended when he lost consciousness, so the police needed a search warrant or, at the very least, proof of voluntary consent. Even though the lab result came back at almost triple the legal limit, the case was resolved with a civil infraction for careless driving.

37th District Court — Warren, Macomb County

OWI Reduced to a Careless Driving Civil Infraction After a “Weaving” Stop Was Challenged — Roseville

Our client was charged with OWI after being stopped for “weaving within a marked lane,” and police gave no other reason for the stop. Michigan law requires a vehicle to be driven “as nearly as practicable entirely within a single lane,” MCL 257.642(1)(a). After reviewing the police in-car video, we concluded our client’s driving stayed within what the statute allows, and we filed a motion to suppress the evidence from the stop. On the day of the hearing, the prosecutor offered to reduce the charge to careless driving, a civil infraction. Our client accepted, avoiding a criminal conviction.

39th District Court — Roseville, Macomb County

Felony Third-Offense OWI Dismissed — Farmington Hills

Our client was charged with a third-offense OWI, a felony that carries up to five years in prison, in the 47th District Court in Farmington Hills. The charge depended on the officer’s belief that an out-of-state drug conviction on her record happened while she was driving, which would have counted as a prior drunk driving offense.

We obtained her complete, correct out-of-state criminal history. It showed she was not operating a vehicle at the time of that arrest. Without that prior, there was no third offense. As a result, the felony was dismissed, and the case went forward as a first-offense OWI.

47th District Court — Farmington Hills, Oakland County

OWI Dismissed for a CDL Holder — Novi

Our client, a commercial driver, was charged with OWI in Novi after a traffic stop for a turn the officer believed was illegal. The video showed the turn was allowed. We moved to dismiss based on the illegal stop, and the court dismissed the case, protecting her CDL.

52-1 District Court — Novi, Oakland County

OWI Reduced to a Civil Infraction for a CDL Holder — Novi

Our client, a commercial driver’s license holder, was charged with OWI after performing poorly on field sobriety tests and registering .09 on a preliminary breath test. We filed a motion to suppress all evidence based on numerous mistakes officers made during the arrest. On the day of the hearing, the prosecutor offered a civil infraction with a fine. No criminal conviction and no CDL consequences.

52-1 District Court — Novi, Oakland County

Third-Offense OWI Felony Reduced to a Misdemeanor, No Jail — Shelby Township

Our client had two prior felony convictions, two prior OWI convictions, and a blood alcohol level more than three times the legal limit. Our client followed our plan precisely, and we convinced the prosecutor that leniency served the interest of justice. The felony was reduced to a misdemeanor OWI. The probation department recommended 90 days in jail, but we convinced the court to impose probation with no jail time.

41-A District Court — Shelby Township, Macomb County

Breath Test Refusal Overturned: Driving Privileges Kept — Secretary of State Hearing

After her arrest, our client was accused of refusing a breath test because she did not provide a sample. At her implied consent hearing before the Secretary of State, we showed she was having a stress-induced asthma attack and physically could not complete the test. The officer could not meet the burden of proving she unreasonably refused. As a result, she kept her driving privileges.

Secretary of State Hearing — Michigan

Hardship License Appeal Granted With No Interlock — Oakland County Circuit Court

Our client, facing a third OWI charge, lost driving privileges for refusing a breath test under Michigan’s implied consent law. The Driver’s License Appeal Division denied the appeal, but the circuit court granted it. Our client received a restricted license with no ignition interlock device.

6th Circuit Court — Oakland County

Drug Crime Case Results

Possession, delivery, and prescription drug charges in district and circuit courts. Learn more about our drug crime defense. Facing a felony? Read our guide to possession with intent to deliver. First drug charge? See our Michigan 7411 guide.

$300,000 Bond Reduced, Client Released the Same Day — Madison Heights

Police arrested our client on several felony drug charges when they executed a search warrant at his home, and the magistrate set bond at $300,000 cash/surety. We filed a motion to reduce bond, arguing that the amount was excessive given his disability, his limited resources, and other factors the court must weigh. The court granted the motion, and our client bonded out that same day.

43rd District Court — Madison Heights, Oakland County

Cocaine Possession With Intent to Deliver Dismissed After a Search Warrant Challenge — Detroit

The officer in charge obtained a search warrant for our client’s home based on claims of heavy foot traffic at the house at all hours of the night. The affidavit also relied on an informant who said he had been inside the home and saw what he “believed to be” drugs. In addition, the officer had cut and pasted boilerplate language into the affidavit that had nothing to do with the facts of this case. Our client was charged with possession with intent to deliver cocaine, a felony. We challenged the warrant on its face. Although courts give deference to a magistrate’s decision to issue a warrant, we showed that the affidavit didn’t provide a substantial basis for probable cause, and the court dismissed the case.

36th District Court — Detroit, Wayne County

Methamphetamine Possession Dismissed After an Illegal Pat-Down — Warren

A Michigan State Police trooper stopped our client for speeding in Warren. Our client had a valid license, registration, and insurance. After running his name and learning he had prior drug possession convictions, the trooper had him step out and asked, “You have any felonies?” Our client answered yes, and the trooper immediately began searching him for weapons and found a baggie of methamphetamine in his pocket. At the preliminary exam, the trooper testified that our client consented to a pat-down. But the video showed our client was only answering the question about his record, not agreeing to a search. After the case was bound over, we moved to dismiss based on Fourth Amendment violations. The prosecutor argued the search was justified for officer safety, but the court found no facts supporting that claim and dismissed the case.

37th District Court and 16th Circuit Court — Warren, Macomb County

Cocaine Possession Dismissed Under HYTA After 7411 Was Already Used — Macomb County

Our 23-year-old client was charged with possession of less than 25 grams of cocaine. He had already used his one-time 7411 deferral on an earlier misdemeanor drug case, so that option wasn’t available. Because he was over 20, we had to convince both the prosecutor and the court to accept his case under the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (HYTA). The key was what our client did right away: he sought treatment after his release and before his first court appearance. We also highlighted his steady work history and his enrollment in trade school. After twelve months of probation, the case was dismissed under HYTA.

16th Circuit Court — Macomb County

20-Year Cocaine Delivery Felony Reduced, Then Dismissed Under 7411 — Detroit

Our client was the target of a narcotics investigation. The informant was a close friend who was angry with our client over an unpaid debt. Detroit police obtained a search warrant based on an alleged controlled buy, and our client was charged with possession with intent to deliver 50 to 449 grams of cocaine, a 20-year felony.

At the preliminary examination, testimony established that police never searched the informant before the alleged buy and never recovered the marked money. We filed motions to dismiss highlighting the informant’s motive and the failures in the investigation. The prosecutor reduced the charge to possession of less than 25 grams, a four-year felony, and our client was granted 7411 status. After one year of probation, the case was dismissed, with no conviction and no public criminal record.

Detroit, Wayne County

20-Year Felony Dismissed; Case Ultimately Dismissed Under 7411 — Pontiac

Our client was driving her boyfriend’s car, which was registered to him. Police stopped her for a traffic violation and arrested her for driving on a suspended license. During an inventory search of the car, officers found a large men’s coat in the trunk. In its pocket were 40 rocks of cocaine. Prosecutors charged her with possession with intent to deliver, a 20-year felony.

At the preliminary examination in the 50th District Court, the testimony distanced her from the coat and the drugs inside it. After the case moved to Circuit Court, the prosecution dismissed the felony. Instead, it offered her simple possession of less than 25 grams under Section 7411, Michigan’s first-offender deferral. She completed probation, and the case was dismissed.

50th District Court — Pontiac, Oakland County

Drug Case Dismissed After the Video Disproved “Consent” — Hazel Park

A suburban police narcotics unit followed our client after he left a location they suspected was involved in drug activity. They followed him all the way to Detroit and back. Once he returned to their jurisdiction, they stopped him.

He had committed no traffic violation. The officers simply suspected a drug transaction, and they claimed he consented to a search of his car. The video showed he never consented. We filed a motion to suppress the evidence, and the prosecutor dismissed the case in the 43rd District Court in Hazel Park.

43rd District Court — Hazel Park, Oakland County

Felony Methamphetamine Possession Dismissed — Oakland County Circuit Court

We filed a motion to suppress the evidence. Police video and audio showed officers threatened and coerced our client into consenting to a search of his home. After reviewing our motion and the recordings, the prosecutor dismissed the charges.

6th Circuit Court — Oakland County

Felony Prescription Drug Possession Dismissed — Oakland County

Police stopped our client for a minor traffic violation and found Vicodin that had been prescribed to him years earlier. His out-of-state physician gave us medical records confirming the prescription. Despite the time that had passed, the prosecutor agreed to dismiss the charges at the preliminary examination.

6th Circuit Court — Oakland County

Drug Paraphernalia Charge Dismissed With No Probation — Clarkston

We negotiated a delayed sentence that would dismiss the charge after probation. The presentence report recommended nine months of probation, drug testing, community service, and a drug awareness class. Our client was an out-of-state college student searching for jobs nationwide. After hearing our argument at sentencing, the court dismissed the case upon payment of fines and costs. No probation, no conviction, no drug testing, no community service, and no class.

52-2 District Court — Clarkston, Oakland County

Third Marijuana Possession Charge Dismissed, No Jail or Probation — Center Line

Our client, who had a prior felony record, was charged with a third marijuana possession offense. Another conviction would have cost him his driver’s license and his job. We convinced the prosecutor to dismiss the marijuana charge in a plea to a misdemeanor with no license sanction. At sentencing, the judge imposed no jail and no probation, only a fine.

37th District Court — Center Line, Macomb County

Jail Sentence Suspended for Drug Treatment — Oakland County Circuit Court

Our client faced a third felony drug charge, had not completed treatment before sentencing, and tested positive two days before sentencing. Even so, we convinced the court to suspend the jail sentence so our client could enter drug treatment.

6th Circuit Court — Oakland County

Prescription Fraud Felonies Resolved With Probation — Oakland County Circuit Court

Our client was charged with three felony counts of prescription fraud connected to a workplace. After lengthy negotiation, we reached a favorable plea agreement. Our client received probation, was able to return to work, and avoided serious collateral consequences because of how we structured the deal.

6th Circuit Court — Oakland County

Assault and Violent Crime Case Results

Felonious assault, home invasion, and assault and battery charges. Learn more about our violent crime defense.

Five Felonies Dismissed Through HYTA, No Prison — Westland

Our client was charged with five felonies, including two counts of felonious assault, third-degree fleeing and eluding, and felony malicious destruction of property. The prosecution alleged that after an argument at her boyfriend’s home, she tried to strike her boyfriend and a house guest with her vehicle, rammed both of their cars, and then led police on a pursuit. She had no prior criminal record. Because a Vehicle Code offense can’t receive HYTA, we negotiated for months to amend the fleeing charge to the Penal Code version. As a result, the prosecutor agreed to Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (HYTA) status on all five felonies. The sentencing guidelines called for prison, but our client’s efforts before sentencing and our allocution at sentencing persuaded the court not to impose a prison term. She completed probation, and all five felonies were dismissed.

18th District Court and Third Circuit Court — Westland, Wayne County

First-Degree Home Invasion Dismissed — Westland

Our client went to collect a debt and was invited into the home. Once inside, his phone went missing. When he confronted the man who owed him money, a fight broke out.

Police arrested our client and charged him with first-degree home invasion, a 20-year felony. While our client sat in jail, the complainant used our client’s phone to take money from him.

We investigated, gathered the transaction records, and showed the prosecutor that the transactions happened while our client was in custody. The prosecutor dismissed the case in the 18th District Court in Westland.

18th District Court — Westland, Wayne County

Felonious Assault Dismissed at the Preliminary Exam — Madison Heights

In a stabbing case, the prosecution tried to prove its case with the complainant’s statements at the hospital. We argued that this violated our client’s constitutional right to confront his accuser, and the court dismissed the felony before it ever reached Circuit Court.

43rd District Court — Madison Heights, Oakland County

Assault With Intent to Do Great Bodily Harm Dismissed — Oak Park

Our client faced a 10-year felony assault charge and a resisting arrest charge. We presented his full circumstances, including records and an evaluation, and the prosecutor agreed the case should be dismissed.

45th District Court — Oak Park, Oakland County

Felonious Assault Dismissed at the Preliminary Exam — Ferndale

The prosecution failed to meet its burden at the preliminary examination, and the charges were dismissed.

43rd District Court — Ferndale, Oakland County

Felony Home Invasion Reduced to a Misdemeanor Plea — Oakland County Circuit Court

Our client was charged with felony home invasion while on bond with a no-contact condition. Before the preliminary examination, we interviewed the complaining witness, and her testimony was repeatedly impeached. After we filed a motion to quash in circuit court, the prosecutor offered a misdemeanor plea. Our client accepted and avoided a felony conviction and possible prison time.

6th Circuit Court — Oakland County

Vulnerable Adult Abuse Charge Dismissed — Rochester Hills

Our client, a caregiver, was accused of assaulting a vulnerable adult in her care. Our firm investigated the incident. The evidence showed the other person was the aggressor and our client acted reasonably under the circumstances. After the prosecutor reviewed our evidence, the case was dismissed.

52-3 District Court — Rochester Hills, Oakland County

Assault and Battery Charge Dismissed — Shelby Township

Our client was accused of assaulting a relative’s partner at a family gathering. We gave the prosecutor’s office additional information showing our client more likely than not acted reasonably, and the charge was dismissed.

41-A District Court — Shelby Township, Macomb County

Domestic Violence and PPO Case Results

Domestic violence, aggravated stalking, and personal protection order cases. Learn more about our domestic violence defense.

Child Abuse Charge Amended and Dismissed Under MCL 769.4a — Dearborn Heights

Our client was charged with fourth-degree child abuse, a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail, after he disciplined his child with a belt. The discipline followed the child’s use of our client’s credit card without permission on two occasions. A friend at school told a counselor, who is a mandatory reporter. We presented all the mitigating circumstances to the prosecutor, and our client completed a parenting class. As a result, the prosecutor amended the charge to domestic violence and agreed to deferral under MCL 769.4a. Our client completed the deferral, and the court dismissed the case. He has no criminal conviction that could have damaged his career and future job opportunities.

20th District Court — Dearborn Heights, Wayne County

Domestic Violence Charge Dismissed on the Day of Trial — Chesterfield Township

Our client was charged with domestic violence after an argument with his wife. She claimed he bear-hugged her during the argument, while our client had scratches on his arms from trying to keep her from striking him. Because our client was significantly larger than his wife, and because the police report was poorly written and documented, he was arrested and charged. We set the case for trial. On the day of trial, the prosecutor dismissed the case, stating that the prosecution could not meet its burden of proof given the conflicting evidence.

42-2 District Court — New Baltimore, Macomb County

Domestic Violence Charge Dismissed Because There Was No Dating Relationship — St. Clair Shores

Police were called to our client’s apartment after neighbors heard loud arguing. During the police interview, our client’s guest claimed the argument turned physical, and our client was arrested for domestic violence. We interviewed the complainant, who explained that she and our client had never dated; they had known each other since elementary school. Because they weren’t married, had no child together, and didn’t live together, a domestic violence charge required a dating relationship, which Michigan law defines as “frequent, intimate associations primarily characterized by the expectation of affectional involvement.” MCL 750.81(8)(a). Once we brought this to the prosecutor’s attention and the complainant was interviewed, the case was dismissed.

40th District Court — St. Clair Shores, Macomb County

Felony Strangulation Charge Dismissed After Motion to Quash — Sterling Heights

Our client was charged with assault by strangulation, a 10-year felony, after a domestic dispute. The complainant did not want to participate, but she was subpoenaed and required to testify under oath at the preliminary examination. Our cross-examination attacked a required element of the charge: whether her breathing or blood circulation was actually impeded. The district court still bound the case over to the Macomb County Circuit Court. We filed a motion to quash the bindover. The circuit court found that the district court had abused its discretion, granted our motion, and the case was dismissed.

41-A District Court (Sterling Heights) and 16th Circuit Court — Macomb County

Aggravated Domestic Violence Reduced, Then Dismissed Under 769.4a — Rochester Hills

Our client was charged with aggravated domestic violence in the 52-3 District Court after striking his girlfriend during an argument. She suffered a serious injury, and the evidence was strong, including visible injuries and his own admissions.

Instead of waiting, we went to work on mitigation. Our client was evaluated by a licensed counselor and then completed counseling. We sent the prosecutor a detailed mitigation memorandum, along with a letter from his counselor.

As a result, the prosecutor reduced the charge to domestic violence, and the court granted 769.4a status. Our client completed the program, and the case was dismissed, protecting his record.

52-3 District Court — Rochester Hills, Oakland County

Domestic Violence Charge Dismissed in the Middle of a Jury Trial — Pontiac

The complainant’s statements on the officers’ body cameras did not match his written statement to police. We built our cross-examination around those conflicts and the gaps in the investigation. After that cross-examination, the prosecutor dismissed the case in the middle of trial in Pontiac.

Pontiac, Oakland County

No-Contact Order Lifted So Our Client Could Return Home — Novi

Our client was arrested for domestic violence after an argument with her husband. The 52-1 District Court entered a no-contact order, which kept her out of the family home. That left her husband caring for their two-year-old son alone, and he could not work.

We brought these problems to the court in a motion to lift the no-contact condition. The court granted it, and our client returned home while her case was pending.

52-1 District Court — Novi, Oakland County

PPO Criminal Contempt: Not Guilty at Trial — Oakland County Circuit Court

Our client faced a second alleged personal protection order (PPO) violation. The petitioner prosecuted our client for criminal contempt and asked the court to jail him. At trial, our office made a creative legal argument: third-party police contact (numerous welfare checks) does not violate a PPO. The court agreed and found our client not guilty.

6th Circuit Court — Oakland County

Felony Aggravated Stalking Dismissed at the Preliminary Exam — Clinton Township

The prosecutor could not prove our client had actual notice of the personal protection order that barred contact with the complainant. The felony was dismissed at the preliminary examination.

41-B District Court — Clinton Township, Macomb County

Domestic Violence Charge Dismissed on the Trial Date — Livonia

Our client was accused of assaulting his girlfriend after an argument over a social media post. He denied the allegations and set the case for trial. The complainant contradicted herself several times in her police statement, and when she did not appear for trial, the case was dismissed.

16th District Court — Livonia, Wayne County

Domestic Violence Charge Dismissed, Preserving Military Eligibility — Livonia

Our client was involved in a family argument that turned physical. After reviewing additional information from our office, the prosecutor agreed to dismiss the case so our client could remain eligible for military service.

16th District Court — Livonia, Wayne County

Domestic Violence Charges Dismissed in a Disorderly Conduct Plea — Milford Township

Our client was accused of attacking family members during a heated argument. We located and interviewed an independent witness who gave the prosecutor new information. Our client then accepted a plea to disorderly conduct and received six months of non-reporting probation and a fine.

52-1 District Court — Milford Township, Oakland County

Weapons and Firearm Case Results

Carrying a concealed weapon, felony firearm, and firearm discharge charges. Learn more about our weapons and firearm defense. Gun found at an airport checkpoint? Read our guide to Michigan airport gun charges. Charged with carrying a concealed weapon? See our Michigan CCW guide.

Felony Firearm Dismissed and Felonious Assault Reduced to a Misdemeanor After a Road Rage Incident — Warren

Our client, a CPL holder, was cut off in traffic in Warren. He followed the other driver into a parking lot and got out to confront him. When the other driver took a fighting stance, our client pulled his handgun and pointed it at him instead of walking away. He was charged with felonious assault and felony firearm, which carries a mandatory two-year prison term. Because our client had followed the other driver and started the confrontation, self-defense wasn’t a realistic defense at trial. Instead, we presented the mitigating circumstances to the prosecutor. The felony firearm charge was dismissed outright, and our client pleaded to the assault charge under a delayed sentence. After he successfully completed the conditions over eleven months, the felonious assault charge was dismissed, and a misdemeanor for brandishing a firearm was entered instead. He avoided two felony convictions and a mandatory prison sentence.

16th Circuit Court — Macomb County

Probation Instead of Prison After Felony Firearm Discharge Charges — Bloomfield Hills

Our client was in the middle of a medical crisis after abruptly stopping a prescribed medication. During that crisis, he fired a rifle from his backyard, and rounds struck a neighbor’s home and nearby property. He was charged with multiple felonies, including discharging a firearm at an occupied dwelling. Over several days of testimony at the preliminary exam in the 48th District Court, we made a record showing he was target shooting improperly, not aiming at homes or people, and his medical records supported that position. Although the sentencing recommendation called for prison, we convinced the circuit court judge that probation was the right sentence.

48th District Court and 6th Circuit Court — Bloomfield Hills, Oakland County

Airport Gun Charge Reduced to a Civil Infraction for a Destination Wedding Traveler — Romulus

Our client, a CPL holder, was flying to a destination wedding. He packed his unloaded pistol in a locked case in his checked luggage, believing that was all the law required. It is not: a firearm in checked baggage must also be declared to the airline. The pistol was discovered in his checked bag. He was charged with a misdemeanor city ordinance violation, prosecuted by the city attorney. We resolved the case as a non-criminal civil infraction with a small fine.

34th District Court — Romulus, Wayne County

Forgotten Concealed Pistol at DTW Reduced to a Civil Infraction — Romulus

Our client, a CPL holder, was traveling for the holidays and running late for his flight. He forgot to remove the pistol he was carrying concealed, and it was found at the security checkpoint. He was charged with a misdemeanor. We resolved the case as a non-criminal civil infraction.

34th District Court — Romulus, Wayne County

Felony CCW Reduced to a Civil Infraction — Waterford

Our client held a concealed pistol license (CPL), but it had expired just one week before a traffic stop.

Police found his handgun in the car, and prosecutors charged him in the 51st District Court with carrying a concealed weapon, a felony punishable by up to five years.

We presented the mitigating circumstances to the prosecutor, including how recently his license had lapsed. As a result, the prosecutor reduced the felony to a civil infraction for failing to immediately disclose that he was carrying a firearm.

A civil infraction is not a crime, so our client left with no criminal conviction.

51st District Court — Waterford, Oakland County

Felonious Assault and Felony Firearm Dismissed on Self-Defense — Farmington Hills

Our client, a CPL holder, was walking his dog when an unleashed dog approached. Afraid of being bitten, he drew his firearm. He and the other dog’s owner began to argue.

When police arrived, they accepted the other man’s account as fact, partly because our client was understandably shaken. Prosecutors charged him in the 47th District Court with felonious assault and felony firearm, which carries a mandatory two-year prison sentence.

We investigated the facts and presented our client’s self-defense position to the prosecutor in writing. The prosecutor dismissed both felonies, and our client pleaded guilty only to a misdemeanor for not having a dog license.

47th District Court — Farmington Hills, Oakland County

CCW Charge Dismissed — Troy

Police stopped our client in Troy while he was carrying a loaded firearm and charged him with carrying a concealed weapon, a felony. We carefully reviewed the officers’ video and showed that police had stopped the wrong vehicle. Because the stop was unlawful, the evidence was suppressed and the case was dismissed outright.

52-4 District Court — Troy, Oakland County

Felony Firearm and Discharge at a Building Dismissed — Oakland County Circuit Court

Our client was accused of intentionally firing a rifle at a neighbor’s home. He faced a 10-year felony plus felony firearm, which carries a mandatory 2-year prison term. We challenged the evidence early. After days of testimony, we showed our client was more likely than not engaged in target practice. Both felonies were dismissed, and our client pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor (careless discharge of a firearm) and received probation.

6th Circuit Court — Oakland County

Felony CCW Dismissed Through Gun Board Diversion — Wayne County Circuit Court

We convinced the Wayne County Gun Board to accept our diversion proposal. The felony concealed weapon charge was dismissed, and our client pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor for possessing an unregistered firearm.

3rd Circuit Court — Wayne County

Felonious Assault With a Firearm Dismissed at the Preliminary Exam — Warren

We challenged the case early in district court. The prosecutor could not meet the burden of proof at the preliminary examination, and the court granted our motion to dismiss.

37th District Court — Warren, Macomb County

Firearm Discharge Charge Dismissed After a Delayed Sentence — St. Clair Shores

Our client was putting his firearm in a safe when it accidentally discharged, and the bullet traveled through his home and into a neighboring garage. We showed that the firearm’s design made it prone to “slam fire.” As a result, we secured a delayed sentence, and the case was dismissed after six months.

40th District Court — St. Clair Shores, Macomb County

Theft, Fraud, and Property Crime Case Results

Retail fraud, larceny, breaking and entering, forgery, and fraud charges. Learn more about our theft and property crime defense. Charged with shoplifting? Read our guide to Michigan retail fraud.

Felony Larceny Dismissed at the Preliminary Exam — Dearborn

Our client, a longtime family friend of the complainant, was charged with felony larceny of $1,000 or more but less than $20,000. The prosecution alleged that when he stopped by the family’s home to use the restroom, he took $12,000 in cash from an upstairs bedroom closet, and that he knew the money was there from past visits. At the preliminary exam, we showed that more than one person was in the house that day and that the complainant didn’t notice the money missing until the next day. Because the charge rested on pure speculation, the court accepted our argument and dismissed the case at the exam.

19th District Court — Dearborn, Wayne County

Retail Fraud Dismissed Without a Plea to Protect a Future Pilot’s Career — Troy

Our client was charged with third-degree retail fraud. The evidence was strong: the store had video, and our client had made an admission. But he was in flight school training to become a commercial pilot, and any conviction, even a delayed sentence that ended in dismissal, would have removed him from the program. We presented the full picture of his circumstances to the prosecutor and convinced the office to place him in an in-house program without a plea being entered. Once he completed the agreed terms, the prosecutor dismissed the case. No plea, no admission of guilt, and no conviction.

52-4 District Court — Troy, Oakland County

Felony Retail Fraud Dismissed — Oakland County Circuit Court

Our client was misidentified as the getaway driver for a retail fraud theft ring. His airtight alibi proved he was not involved.

As a result, the felony retail fraud charges against him were dismissed in the 6th Judicial Circuit Court (Oakland County Circuit Court).

6th Circuit Court — Oakland County

Felony Larceny Dismissed at the Preliminary Exam, With No Parole Violation — Pontiac

Our client was charged with larceny of property worth more than $1,000, a felony, while he was on parole. That put him at risk of both a new conviction and a return to prison for violating parole.

At the preliminary examination in the 50th District Court, the prosecution could not meet its burden of proof. The court dismissed the case, and our client faced no parole violation consequences.

50th District Court — Pontiac, Oakland County

Breaking and Entering Dismissed at Trial — Farmington Hills

Our client was charged with breaking and entering based on the word of the prosecution’s key witness. That witness had implicated our client to police, but his story did not hold up.

At trial in the 47th District Court, we showed that he had repeatedly lied to police. Once those lies came to light, the prosecutor moved to dismiss the case.

47th District Court — Farmington Hills, Oakland County

Two Felony Breaking and Entering Charges Dismissed in a Misdemeanor Plea — Troy

Our client was implicated in several business break-ins captured on surveillance video, and faced two 10-year felonies. We showed that significant personal circumstances played a role in our client’s behavior. The prosecutor dismissed the felonies in exchange for a misdemeanor plea, and our client received probation.

52-4 District Court — Troy, Oakland County

Larceny in a Building Dismissed at the Preliminary Exam — Southfield

At the preliminary examination, the prosecutor could not prove our client was ever inside the building where the alleged theft happened, and the charge was dismissed.

46th District Court — Southfield, Oakland County

Felony Larceny in a Building Reduced to a Misdemeanor — Oak Park

We showed that a third party was more likely responsible for forcing entry than our client. As a result, the felony was dismissed in a plea to a misdemeanor.

45th District Court — Oak Park, Oakland County

Malicious Destruction of Property Dismissed on the Day of Trial — Westland

Our client hired our firm for trial after parting ways with a previous attorney. Our investigation showed the complaining witness lied to police and that our client was actually the one who had been assaulted. The charges were dismissed on the day of trial.

18th District Court — Westland, Wayne County

Felony Forgery Charge Dismissed — Detroit

Our client was charged with forging a vehicle registration in connection with a vehicle purchase. After the prosecutor’s office committed numerous discovery violations, the court granted our motion to dismiss.

36th District Court — Detroit, Wayne County

Felony Scrap Metal Theft Dismissed at the Preliminary Exam — Detroit

The prosecution failed to meet its burden at the preliminary examination, and the charges were dismissed.

36th District Court — Detroit, Wayne County

Larceny Charge Dismissed for a Civil Infraction — Clinton Township

After a dispute with a local business owner, our client was accused of taking items from the business. The owner could not identify the missing items. The criminal charge was dismissed, and our client admitted responsibility for a noncriminal civil infraction with a fine. No probation and no criminal conviction.

41-B District Court — Clinton Township, Macomb County

Felony Health Care Fraud: No Jail, Restitution Cut by Two-Thirds — Washtenaw County

Our client was charged with multiple felony counts of health care fraud. We negotiated a no contest plea to a single felony count that may later be set aside, and restitution was reduced to one-third of the original amount. Our client received non-reporting probation and no jail time. The court also allowed our client to keep working in the industry, over the probation department’s recommendation.

22nd Circuit Court — Washtenaw County

Sex Crime Case Results

Criminal sexual conduct, indecent exposure, and sex offender registration cases. Learn more about our sex crime defense. Facing a charge anywhere in the state? Read our guide to Michigan sex crimes.

No Charges Filed After We Uncovered Coaching in a Custody Dispute — Wayne County

Our client, a relative of the mother, was staying with her during her bitter divorce from the child’s father. The child made a statement to a mandatory reporter, who reported it to police, and Child Protective Services (CPS) also opened an investigation. Our client contacted us early. Our investigation uncovered clear evidence that the father had coached the child to gain an advantage in the divorce and custody dispute. We presented that information to CPS and law enforcement, who reviewed the background and the father’s conduct before making a charging decision. In the end, no charges were filed.

Pre-Charge Investigation — Wayne County

Two Counts of CSC Second Degree Dismissed Before the Preliminary Exam — Romeo

Police searched our client’s home under a search warrant. He made no statements. We were retained before any charge was filed, and we immediately sent the officer in charge a letter demanding that all evidence be preserved, including the phone messages of the child’s mother. A year later, our client was charged with two counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct, each a 15-year felony. We subpoenaed the mother’s phone, which held audio recordings of her coaching the child. We retained a highly qualified expert to review the CARE House forensic interview and the mother’s recordings for suggestibility and memory taint. The expert, who had reviewed more than 1,000 child forensic interviews, concluded this interview was among the three worst he had ever reviewed. Our client also passed a polygraph examination. Faced with the expert’s findings, the prosecutor dismissed both counts before the preliminary examination.

42-1 District Court — Romeo, Macomb County

Criminal Sexual Conduct Acquittal — Oakland County Circuit Court

Our client was wrongfully accused of criminal sexual conduct in the middle of a bitter divorce and faced three counts of second-degree CSC, each a 15-year felony. At trial, we showed the jury that the State’s forensic interviewer improperly influenced the complaining witness, and that the officer in charge of the case destroyed evidence that may have helped the defense. The jury returned a verdict of not guilty on all three counts.

6th Circuit Court — Oakland County

CSC Fourth-Degree Charge Resolved With a Non-Registry Misdemeanor — Oakland County Circuit Court

Our client was charged with fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct, a registrable offense, and the case was bound over to the Oakland County Circuit Court.

We obtained the preliminary examination transcript and compared it with the complainant’s initial report. The two were full of contradictions.

Still, our client did not want to risk a trial, because a conviction would have put him on the sex offender registry.

Using those contradictions, we negotiated a plea to a misdemeanor that does not require registration and is eligible for expungement in the future.

6th Circuit Court — Oakland County

Failure to Register Dismissed — Clarkston

Our client was charged with failing to register as a sex offender. The officer relied on one witness and never interviewed the people who actually lived in our client’s home. We did, and the charge was dismissed in Clarkston.

Clarkston, Oakland County

Fourth-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct Dismissed — Macomb County Circuit Court

Our client was accused of inappropriately touching a coworker. Our cross-examination showed the complaining witness’s version of events was physically impossible, and the case was dismissed.

16th Circuit Court — Macomb County

Indecent Exposure Charge Dismissed — Dearborn

Our client, a professional, was charged with indecent exposure. After we gave the prosecutor additional information, the prosecutor took the case under advisement and dismissed it within 60 days.

19th District Court — Dearborn, Wayne County

Offer to Engage in Prostitution Charge Dismissed — Detroit

The citation against our client was improperly written. The court granted our motion to dismiss and denied the prosecutor’s request to amend the complaint.

36th District Court — Detroit, Wayne County

Juvenile Case Results

School-related and juvenile delinquency cases handled to protect a young person’s future. Learn more about our juvenile defense.

School Weapon Charge Dismissed Through the Consent Calendar — Oakland County

Our juvenile client was charged with possessing a weapon on school property after making an edged metal piece.

We investigated and showed that the shop teacher knew the student was making it as part of class activities. The case was placed on the consent calendar and then dismissed.

Oakland County Circuit Court — Family Division (Juvenile)

School Threat Petition Dismissed After an Evaluation — Oakland County

Our juvenile client was charged with making a threat at school. Given the nature of the statement, we had our client professionally evaluated.

The clinical report found it was an act of immaturity, not a real threat. The court dismissed the petition without ordering any services.

Oakland County Circuit Court — Family Division (Juvenile)

Joyride Petition Dismissed — Oakland County

Our juvenile client took a parent’s car for a drive without permission and without a driver’s license, and police stopped him.

We presented the court with his academic, athletic, and community achievements. The court dismissed the petition without referring him to any services.

Oakland County Circuit Court — Family Division (Juvenile)

Criminal Investigations: No Charges Filed

Cases where early action before charges led to no charges at all. Learn what to do if a detective contacts you on our criminal investigations page.

Assault & Battery Investigation — Prosecutor Denied the Warrant Request (Macomb County)

Our client was officiating a sporting event when a participant became unruly and was ejected. A physical altercation followed, and our client defended himself.

The detective interviewed the participant’s family, heard only one side of the story, then called our client, pressing him for a statement and suggesting he would likely be charged if he didn’t talk.

We were retained immediately. We interviewed three witnesses and coordinated their contact with the detective so the complete account was on record.

After reviewing the full statements, the prosecutor denied the warrant request. No charges were filed.

Macomb County

Fraud Investigation — No Charges Filed (Oakland County)

Our client was investigated for fraud after buying a vehicle and reselling it to another dealership within a week. Investigators suspected misuse of an employee discount and a kickback.

Our office was retained immediately. We gathered the timeline and the circumstances behind the quick sale and laid out the facts showing our client’s innocent intent.

No fraud charges were filed.

Oakland County

No Charges Filed After an Early Defense — Oakland County

Our client was accused of inappropriate contact with a minor during a gathering at his home. Police opened an investigation, and the child was referred to CARE House, Oakland County’s child advocacy center, for a forensic interview.

The complainant did not cooperate with police or the interview process. To help make sure the case never reached a courtroom, we arranged for our client to take a private polygraph examination, which he passed. No charges were filed.

Oakland County

Sexual Misconduct Allegation: No Charges Filed — Washtenaw County

Our client was wrongly accused of inappropriate sexual contact. We investigated the allegations, interviewed every witness, and gave the investigator information showing the complainant’s statement was false. No charges were filed.

Washtenaw County

Embezzlement Investigation Closed With No Charges — Grand Rapids

Our client was accused of embezzling from a longtime employer. Our firm got involved before charges were filed and negotiated a resolution. No charges were filed, and our client never had to set foot in a courtroom.

Grand Rapids — Kent County

Probation Violation Case Results

Misdemeanor and felony probation violations, including drug test, tether, and Soberlink allegations. Learn more about our probation violation defense. Facing a violation anywhere in the state? Read our guide to Michigan probation violation law. We also handle probation violations throughout Macomb County and Wayne County.

Fourth Probation Violation on Felony OWI: No Prison, Treatment Plan Adopted — Wayne County

Our client was on felony probation for third-offense OWI when he faced his fourth probation violation, for missed and positive alcohol tests. At his third violation, before he hired our office, the court sentenced him to 30 days in jail and warned him that the next violation would mean prison. Understandably, he was terrified. He was already in substance abuse counseling, but he was also struggling with his mental health. Together, we built a plan. Before the hearing, he completed an intake with a psychologist and was set to enter an inpatient program, followed by a three-quarter house so he could focus on his sobriety and his health. Instead of prison, the court adopted our plan, with no incarceration.

Third Circuit Court — Wayne County

Felony Probation Warrant After 10 Years Resolved With No Jail — Macomb County

Two months after being placed on felony probation, our client stopped reporting. She moved out of state and was gone for more than 10 years. She contacted our office to clear the warrant and handle the violation. Our client had been a victim of domestic violence and human trafficking. The court ordered an updated presentence report, and we submitted a memorandum supporting her account and documenting the steps she had taken on her own to rebuild her life. The court imposed no jail and continued her probation for six months so she could pay restitution. She paid it in full, and the court closed her case.

16th Circuit Court — Macomb County

Probation Violation Dismissed After Video and Phone Records Disproved No-Contact Allegation — Allen Park

Our client was on probation for a domestic violence offense, with a condition that he have no contact with the complainant. During a bitter divorce, she accused him of calling her at all hours of the night from different phone numbers and hanging up.

We challenged that story with evidence. We obtained our client’s phone records and subpoenaed video from a business where he was making a purchase at the exact time one of the calls supposedly came in. The video showed he was not on his phone. The court found him not guilty of the alleged violation.

24th District Court — Allen Park, Wayne County

Felony OWI Probation Violation: Probation Extended, No Jail — Oakland County Circuit Court

Our client was on felony probation for a third-offense OWI. He was accused of drinking and tampering with his alcohol tether. The prosecutor asked the court to send him to prison. Because the underlying case was a felony drunk driving offense, drinking was not treated as a minor “technical” violation, so prison was a real possibility.

We presented records showing significant mitigating circumstances and made a strong case for our client to the court. As a result, the court extended his probation without any jail time.

6th Circuit Court — Oakland County

Soberlink Violation: Probation Continued, No Jail — Southfield

Our client was on probation for a second OWI in the 46th District Court in Southfield. She was required to test with a Soberlink device, and one test registered .03. However, she had not been drinking on purpose. She was at a charity event, drinking Coke, and one of the drinks she was served contained alcohol without her knowledge.

We obtained her bill showing exactly what she ordered. She also passed a polygraph examination on the key questions: whether she ordered an alcoholic drink, and whether she knew she had consumed alcohol.

This was her third alleged violation, and because her original case involved an injury accident, the prosecutor asked for the maximum jail sentence. Instead, after considering our evidence, the court continued her probation with no jail.

46th District Court — Southfield, Oakland County

Probation Violation Dismissed After a False Soberlink Reading — Waterford

Our client was on probation for a second OWI when his Soberlink registered a .04. Five minutes later, he retested at .00, and an EtG urine test that same day came back negative. After we presented the evidence, the 51st District Court dismissed the violation.

51st District Court — Waterford, Oakland County

Probation Violation After a Failed Breath Test: No Jail — Oakland County Circuit Court

Our client was on felony probation for third-offense OWI and was accused of arriving at a scheduled breath test intoxicated, blowing a .12, and driving away. The prosecutor and probation department asked for prison. We presented supporting records and significant mitigating circumstances, and the court extended probation with no jail time.

6th Circuit Court — Oakland County

Felony OWI Probation Violation: No Prison or Jail — Oakland County Circuit Court

Our client, who had multiple prior drunk-driving convictions, was on probation for a felony third-offense OWI under a Cobbs agreement (a sentencing agreement with the judge) that included intensive treatment. Our client later violated probation by walking away from the tether several times. We presented significant mitigating factors and convinced the judge not to impose prison or jail. Probation and the tether were continued.

6th Circuit Court — Oakland County

Alcohol Tether Violations: Probation Continued, No Jail — Roseville

Our client was on probation for a high-BAC operating while intoxicated offense involving an injury accident and was accused of violating probation twice. We used a polygraph to show our client more likely than not consumed alcohol unknowingly while wearing an alcohol tether. The court continued probation over the probation department’s recommendation for jail.

39th District Court — Roseville, Macomb County

Felony Probation Violation: No Jail — Macomb County Circuit Court

Our client faced a second probation violation for leaving Michigan and not completing a court-ordered class. The original conviction was a felony. The probation department recommended 60 days in jail and revoking the favorable terms of the original sentence. Our office convinced the court to impose no jail and to keep those terms in place.

16th Circuit Court — Macomb County

Fifth Probation Violation: No Jail — Rochester Hills

Our client faced a fifth probation violation, after ten prior technical violations, and up to a year in jail. The probation department recommended jail. Because our client followed our advice, we persuaded the court to extend probation instead, with no jail time.

52-3 District Court — Rochester Hills, Oakland County

Drug Probation Violation: File Closed, No Jail — Troy

Our client was charged with multiple probation violations for alleged continued drug use while on probation for a drug offense. We convinced the court that our client’s failed drug tests more likely than not came from a product marketed as a sleep aid. The court closed the file, rejecting the probation department’s recommendation to jail our client.

52-4 District Court — Troy, Oakland County

Marijuana Probation Violation Dismissed — Auburn Hills

Our client was accused of violating probation a second time by using marijuana, and the probation department recommended 15 days in jail. After considering our evidence, the court dismissed the violation.

52-3 District Court — Auburn Hills, Oakland County

Probation Violation: Not Guilty After a Hearing — Livonia

The probation officer wrongly accused our client of missing required monthly drug tests. After we reviewed our client’s records and questioned the probation officer at the hearing, the court found our client not guilty.

16th District Court — Livonia, Wayne County

Restitution Probation Violation Dismissed — Washtenaw County Circuit Court

The probation officer accused our client of not making enough effort to pay court-ordered restitution. At the violation hearing, we showed our client had made good-faith payments and could not pay the full amount before the case closed. The court agreed and dismissed the violation.

22nd Circuit Court — Washtenaw County

Driving and License Offense Case Results

Fleeing and eluding, driving while license suspended, and other driving-related charges.

Third-Degree Fleeing and Eluding Dismissed at the Preliminary Exam — Pontiac

Our client was charged with third-degree fleeing and eluding after a car carrying four men, including our client and his brother, crashed and everyone in it ran from the scene. A neighbor saw the crash and the men running. Police traced the car to our client’s mother. Instead of using a photo lineup, an officer showed the neighbor a single photo: our client’s driver’s license picture. At the preliminary exam, we challenged the identification. The neighbor was unsure at best, and his testimony pointed to suggestive tactics by the officer. The court ruled that the identification evidence did not meet the probable cause standard and dismissed the case.

50th District Court — Pontiac, Oakland County

Fleeing and Eluding, Third Degree (Felony) Dismissed — Royal Oak

Police charged our client with third-degree fleeing and eluding, a felony, after a vehicle pursuit. In his report, the officer claimed he identified our client by seeing him during the chase. At the preliminary examination, we used the officer’s own testimony and the patrol car video to show that his identification was not credible. The case was dismissed at the preliminary exam.

44th District Court — Royal Oak, Oakland County

Hit-and-Run Charge Dismissed at the First Pretrial — Sterling Heights

Our client received a citation in the mail for leaving the scene of a property-damage accident. The only thing connecting him to the case was that the car was registered in his name. At the first pretrial, we presented irrefutable evidence that he could not have been the driver, and the case was dismissed.

41-A District Court — Sterling Heights, Macomb County

Felony Fleeing and Eluding Dismissed — Southfield

Police wrongly accused our client of fleeing. We reviewed the police video, cell phone records, and GPS data, challenged the case early, and proved police had misidentified our client as the driver. The charge was dismissed.

46th District Court — Southfield, Oakland County

Felony Fleeing and Eluding Reduced to a Traffic Misdemeanor — Warren

Our client was accused of fleeing police during a traffic stop. We gave the prosecutor additional information about the stop, and the felony was dismissed. Our client pleaded guilty to a traffic misdemeanor with a $600 fine and no probation.

37th District Court — Warren, Macomb County

Felony Fleeing Charge Resolved by Misdemeanor Plea, DWLS Dismissed — Eastpointe

Our client was charged with third-degree fleeing and eluding (a felony) and driving while license suspended, second offense. We challenged the so-called voluntary Miranda waiver behind our client’s statement that he was the driver. In a plea deal, our client pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor and the license-suspended charge was dismissed. The court imposed no jail and no probation, only a fine.

38th District Court — Eastpointe, Macomb County

Felony Avoided and Driving Charges Reduced Across Three Courts, No Jail

Our client missed a pretrial date on a driving while license suspended (DWLS) case, was later charged with a felony for tampering with a telecommunications device, missed court on a second DWLS case, and was arrested again for DWLS and resisting and obstructing an officer. Our client didn’t know where to start. We presented our client’s mitigating circumstances to each court. The final result: no felony conviction, all misdemeanors reduced to allowing an unlicensed driver and disorderly conduct, and no jail or probation.

41-A District Court (Macomb County), 34th District Court (Wayne County), and 52-1 District Court (Oakland County)

Four License-Suspended Charges Reduced, No Jail or Probation — Wayne County

Our client missed sentencing on a driving while license suspended (DWLS) charge, then picked up a second, third, and fourth DWLS charge, including a missed arraignment, across several courts. Overwhelmed, our client hired our firm. We resolved every case within six weeks. All charges were reduced to allowing an unlicensed driver, with no jail and no probation.

18th District Court (Westland), 16th District Court (Livonia), and 33rd District Court (Woodhaven) — Wayne County

Failure to Stop at an Accident Reduced to a Civil Infraction — Ferndale

While our client was on probation in another court, he received a misdemeanor citation for failing to stop at a property-damage accident, a six-point violation. After we got involved, the charge was reduced to improper backing, a two-point civil infraction, with no probation violation consequences.

43rd District Court — Ferndale, Oakland County

Other Criminal Defense Case Results

Child support, forgery, record set-asides, and other cases. See all of our practice areas.

Felony Resisting and Obstructing Dismissed on a Motion to Quash — Taylor

Taylor police responded to a home after a report of a domestic altercation. Our client was a visitor in the home and wasn’t involved. Officers quickly detained the two people involved in the altercation. Our client didn’t want to give a statement, so he walked away. Officers grabbed him, he kept walking, and they took him to the ground and charged him with resisting and obstructing an officer, a felony. After reviewing all the evidence, we determined that once police had detained the people involved, they had no lawful reason to detain our client. He had no obligation to speak with police, and he had the right to go about his business. The district court bound the case over after the preliminary exam, so we filed a motion to quash in circuit court. The circuit court found that the district court had abused its discretion and dismissed the case.

23rd District Court and Third Circuit Court — Taylor, Wayne County

Felony False Report Charge Dismissed Through Pretrial Diversion — Wayne County

Our client was charged with making a false report of a felony, a four-year felony, after he reported that his vehicle had been carjacked when it had not been. At the time, he was struggling with a substance use problem, and he admitted the report wasn’t true. He wasn’t eligible for any statutory diversion program. After we presented the mitigating circumstances to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office, he was accepted into its pretrial diversion program. After three months, the case was dismissed and the fingerprints taken at his arrest were destroyed.

Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office Pretrial Diversion — Wayne County

Resisting and Obstructing Charges Dismissed After a Prolonged Bicycle Stop — Eastpointe

Our client, who was already on probation in another court for resisting and obstructing an officer, was stopped while riding his bicycle at dusk without a headlamp. He was charged with two counts of resisting and obstructing a police officer and possession of narcotic paraphernalia. The police video showed that the officer kept him at the stop longer than needed to write the ticket. Our client did not consent to a search of his person, and the encounter turned physical when he was taken to the ground. After the prosecutor reviewed our concerns, both resisting charges and the paraphernalia charge were dismissed, and our client pleaded to a disorderly person offense. At sentencing, after our allocution, he received a $100 fine and no probation.

38th District Court — Eastpointe, Macomb County

Two Felony License Plate Forgery Charges Dismissed — Troy

Police arrested our client on two felony forgery counts and then released him, but he was not formally charged until more than three years later. We challenged the case on speedy-trial grounds, and both felony charges were dismissed.

52-4 District Court — Troy, Oakland County

Felony Child Support Charges Dismissed Without a Court Appearance — Wayne County Circuit Court

Our client owed substantial back child support, and the Attorney General’s Office sought to extradite him from another state to face felony charges. After extensive negotiation, the charges were dismissed once our client paid 10% of the arrears. No conviction, no probation, and our client never had to set foot in a courtroom.

3rd Circuit Court — Wayne County

Felony Child Support Charges Resolved by a Delayed Sentence — Wayne County Circuit Court

Our client faced two felony counts of failing to pay child support. We negotiated a delayed sentence: after one year of timely monthly payments, both felonies would be dismissed, with no probation, no jail, and no criminal record.

3rd Circuit Court — Wayne County

Malicious Use of a Communications Device Dismissed on the Day of Trial — Farmington Hills

On the day of trial, we showed the prosecutor that the complainant lied in her initial police statement. The prosecutor moved to dismiss, and the court granted the motion.

47th District Court — Farmington Hills, Oakland County

Third-Offense Minor in Possession Dismissed — Detroit

While on probation for two prior MIP offenses in another court, our client was cited for a third MIP in Detroit. The officer cited the wrong statute, and the court granted our motion to dismiss. The result: no conviction, no new probation, and no probation violation in the other court.

36th District Court — Detroit, Wayne County

Two Felony Convictions Set Aside — Oakland County Circuit Court

Our client had two prior felony convictions. We presented the court with the extraordinary efforts our client had made to turn their life around, and the court granted our motion to set aside both convictions.

6th Circuit Court — Oakland County

Talk to a Michigan Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Case

These criminal defense case results come from courts across Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne Counties. Attorney Christopher Brown, a former Detroit police officer, reviews every case for weaknesses in the evidence, the police investigation, and the procedure. Consultations are free, and we are available 24/7. Call (248) 468-1468 or contact us online.