Southgate Misdemeanor Lawyer

If you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor in Southgate, you need a strong defense to avoid serious consequences. Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies, but they can still result in fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. The Law Office of Julian Poota is here to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

What Are Misdemeanors?

In Michigan, misdemeanors are criminal offenses that carry a maximum penalty of one year in jail or less. Misdemeanors can range from minor offenses like trespassing to more serious crimes like assault. Common misdemeanors include:

• Petty theft or shoplifting
• Assault and battery
• Driving under the influence (DUI/OWI)
• Disorderly conduct
• Public intoxication
• Minor drug offenses
• Domestic violence (lesser offenses)

While misdemeanors are considered less serious than felonies, a conviction can still impact your life in many ways. A conviction may lead to jail time, probation, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you’re facing misdemeanor charges, it’s crucial to have an experienced attorney on your side.

Consequences of a Misdemeanor Conviction in Southgate

Although misdemeanors carry lighter penalties than felonies, the consequences are still significant. Depending on the charge, a misdemeanor conviction can result in:

• Jail time: Misdemeanor offenses are punishable by up to one year in jail, depending on the charge.
• Fines: Convictions can result in substantial fines, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
• Probation: You may be sentenced to probation instead of jail time, but this comes with strict conditions, such as drug testing, community service, and regular check-ins with a probation officer.
• Criminal record: A misdemeanor conviction will appear on your criminal record, which can affect your job prospects, housing options, and more.
• Loss of civil rights: Certain misdemeanor convictions may lead to restrictions on your right to own firearms or vote, especially if you have multiple convictions.

A skilled misdemeanor lawyer can help minimize these consequences and work to get the best outcome possible.

Why You Need a Southgate Misdemeanor Lawyer

While misdemeanor offenses may seem less serious, they should still be taken very seriously. Here’s why hiring an experienced lawyer is essential:

• Strategic defense: We will evaluate the evidence against you and build a defense strategy that can challenge the prosecution’s case. We’ll look for inconsistencies, errors, or weaknesses in the evidence to reduce your charges or have the case dismissed.
• Negotiation for reduced charges: We can negotiate with the prosecution to have the charges reduced, or we may secure a plea deal to reduce potential penalties.
• Court representation: If your case goes to trial, we will fight for your rights in court. We will work to get the best possible outcome, whether that’s a reduced sentence or dismissal.
• Avoid a criminal record: Our goal is to help you avoid a criminal record or reduce the severity of the charges, so you can move forward with your life.

We understand how serious a misdemeanor charge can be and will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and your future.

Common Defenses for Misdemeanors

There are several defenses that may apply to misdemeanor charges, depending on the circumstances. Some common defenses include:

• Lack of evidence: If the prosecution doesn’t have sufficient evidence to prove you committed the crime beyond a reasonable doubt, the charges may be dropped or reduced.
• Self-defense: In cases of assault or battery, we may be able to argue that you acted in self-defense to protect yourself from harm.
• False accusations: If the charges are based on false or misleading information, we will work to prove your innocence.
• Mistaken identity: In some cases, people are wrongly accused due to confusion or mistaken identity. We can investigate the facts to establish that you were not involved in the crime.
• Illegal search or seizure: If law enforcement violated your rights during the investigation or arrest, we may be able to have evidence excluded from the case.

At The Law Office of Julian Poota, we carefully review every detail of your case to identify the best possible defense.

Why Choose The Law Office of Julian Poota?

Julian Poota is an experienced criminal defense attorney in Southgate, specializing in defending individuals facing misdemeanor charges. We are committed to providing you with personalized legal representation to protect your rights and minimize the consequences of your charges.

We offer free consultations to discuss your misdemeanor case and explain how we can help. Contact us today to get started.

Southgate Criminal Matters Are Heard at the 28th District Court

Address: 14720 Reaume Parkway Southgate, Michigan 48195 
Phone: 734-258-3068
Link to Southgate District Court