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Kent County Criminal Defense Lawyer
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Kent County Criminal Defense Lawyer

About Us

SBBL Law has spent years assisting the people of Grand Rapids, Kentwood, and communities throughout Kent County in their criminal defense cases. Our team has decades of combined experience, led by former FBI special agents, JAG officers, and federal prosecutors. We represent a wide range of criminal matters, from OWIs to murder-for-hire charges, and our attorneys are qualified to advocate in both federal and state courtrooms.

Overview of Criminal Cases in Kent County

How crime affects the 673,002 residents of Kent County depends in part on their specific location. Grand Rapids is in the 64th percentile for safety, with a crime rate of 19.78 per 1,000 people. In comparison, Kentwood has an average of 30.66 per 1,000 people and is less safe than 67 percent of cities nationwide.

Criminal cases in Kent County are initially processed through either the 61st or 63rd District Courts. Felonies transfer to the Kent County Circuit Court at 180 Ottawa Ave in Grand Rapids. The U.S. District Court handles federal offenses for the Western District of Michigan in Detroit. The attorneys at SBBL Law are experienced with misdemeanor, felony, and federal charges.

Criminal Defense Strategies

Every criminal defense requires a different approach based on the unique facts of the case. Common, effective defense strategies include:

  • Illegal search and seizure. In some cases, a defense lawyer will file a motion to suppress central evidence obtained without a warrant or through illegal search and seizure.
  • Challenging witness credibility. A skilled attorney will work to uncover bias or deception in witness testimony.
  • Lack of evidence. When the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, a knowledgeable lawyer will move to have charges reduced or dismissed.
  • Entrapment. Law enforcement allegedly manipulated the defendant into committing a crime.
  • Coercion. Criminal actions resulted from manipulation or duress.
  • Self-defense. A person may have broken a law to protect themselves or others from imminent harm.
  • Statute of limitations. Many misdemeanors, such as simple assault or low-level theft, can be charged only within six years of the event. Attempts to bring charges after the deadline are often dismissed.

 

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

When you are facing a criminal conviction, you need to hire a criminal defense lawyer with the skills and experience to protect your rights. A Kent County criminal defense attorney will advocate for you at each stage of your case. SBBL Law handles a range of accusations, such as violent, property, drug, sex, and white-collar crimes. Legal services we provide include:

  • Review the case. We will conduct a separate investigation to uncover omitted details and highlight errors in the prosecution’s case.
  • Prepare your defense. An attorney will explore potential legal strategies to find the most effective defense for your situation.
  • Representation in proceedings. SBBL Law will represent you in court hearings and meetings, both in and out of the courtroom.
  • Advocate for a lighter sentence. If a conviction seems certain, a skilled attorney can work with the prosecution and courts to mitigate the event’s impact on your life. Plea deals can prevent imprisonment, shorten prison terms, reduce fines, and lower the charge that appears on your criminal record.

Team Leader

Heath M. Lynch

Criminal Defense Attorney, Partner
888-915-8064

FAQs

Do You Need a Lawyer for a Criminal Case in Michigan?

State law does not legally require you to hire a lawyer when facing a criminal charge. However, skilled legal counsel provides many key benefits for your case. An experienced criminal defense attorney has skills, resources, and knowledge most people aren’t aware of and can explore options involving laws and court procedures to prepare an aggressive legal defense strategy tailored to the details of your case.

What Should You Tell Your Criminal Defense Lawyer?

When you are accused of a criminal charge, you should tell your criminal defense lawyer everything you know about the case. While you may have the urge to withhold information that appears incriminating, your legal counsel requires all information to represent you effectively. However, it is important to keep discussions limited to details that are relevant to the case.

How Long Does a Criminal Case Take in Michigan?

How long a criminal case takes to resolve in Kent County, Michigan varies based on the allegations, the complexity of the case, and the court’s backlog. A straightforward case that is resolved through a plea deal before trial often takes significantly less time than a more complex case or one that requires a trial. In your free initial consultation, be sure to ask about likely timelines in your specific case.

What Is the Strongest Defense Against a Criminal Charge in Michigan?

The strongest defense against a Michigan criminal charge depends on the type of accusation and the details of the case. Common strategies include challenging the legality of the prosecution’s evidence collection, examining law enforcement’s actions for errors, and challenging the credibility of the evidence. An experienced criminal defense attorney will prepare a defense that is based on the specifics of your case.

When Does a Crime Become a Federal Charge in Michigan?

A criminal charge becomes a federal charge in Michigan in several situations. Grounds for federal charges include alleged actions involving a federal agency, occurring on federal property, crossing state lines or international borders, or violating federal statutes. A criminal defense lawyer will determine whether your case is prosecuted at the state or federal level and tailor your defense strategy accordingly.

Speak With a Kent County Criminal Defense Attorney Today

The proven legal team at SBBL Law understands the challenges of a criminal case. We will use our years of experience, trial skills, and legal knowledge to defend you against criminal accusations.

Contact us today to book your free initial consultation. In this discussion, we will review your case and explore potential defense strategies. You may also visit our Grand Rapids office, located on Monroe Center Street Northwest, a few blocks east of the Grand Rapids Art Museum, and a block west of Veterans Memorial Park.

Kent County Criminal Defense Lawyer Reviews

★★★★★
“Matt and Mikayla were outstanding to work with. Professional, timely, communicative and helped me every step of the way thru the process! I would recommend them and their firm to anyone who is looking for assistance!” – Nathan Weisenburger

★★★★★
“After searching around Michigan for a good dependable lawyer, I was recommended Heath Lynch from another lawyer. That was the best decision I have ever made by deciding to work with him and his law firm. Communication was great, he was very understanding, and very passionate about what he does. He showed nothing but compassion the entire case. I would recommend him to anybody that is looking for a federal lawyer in the state of Michigan!!!” – Bri Case

★★★★★
“Tessa is unbelievable, I was getting calls from the FBI wanting to talk to me, I did not know what to do, I tried looking up the best attorneys outside of Indiana which is where I am from, because I don’t trust any here. I was reading through several attorneys and I came across Tessa. I called and spoke with her we hit it off immediately, I put down a retainer, she contacted the FBI, and threw One telephone call and one email it was resolved. A heavy weight lifted off of my shoulders. It went no further than that one phone call and one email. If you need an attorney that is intelligent a straight shooter and very truthful look no further than Tessa. She will remain on speed dial. I wish her the very best.” – Debbie Elliott

Kent County Criminal Defense Resources:

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer from SBBL Law Today

If you are accused or charged of a crime in Kent County, it is critical to hire a knowledgeable and effective criminal defense lawyer immediately. There is too much at stake for you to wait to secure the defense you deserve. At SBBL Law, we understand that mistakes and misunderstandings happen, and, regardless of the circumstances, you have the right to skilled and experienced legal representation. Contact our offices today to connect with an attorney who can help.

Where We Practice

Our criminal lawyers represent clients in nationwide federal criminal cases and Title IX investigations, and we regularly appear in courts throughout Michigan:

  • U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan (federal court in Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Marquette)
  • U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan (federal court in Detroit, Ann Arbor, Bay City, Flint, Port Huron)
  • Kent County (Greater Grand Rapids, Walker, Wyoming, Kentwood, Grandville)
  • Newaygo County (White Cloud)
  • Ottawa County (Hudsonville, Holland, Grand Haven)
  • Allegan County
  • Barry County (Hastings)
  • Muskegon County
  • Oceana County (Hart)
  • Mecosta County (Big Rapids)
  • Ionia County
  • Montcalm County (Stanton)
  • Clinton County (St. Johns)
  • Gratiot County (Ithaca)
  • Eaton County (Charlotte)
  • Ingham County (Lansing, East Lansing, Mason)
  • Jackson County
  • Calhoun County (Battle Creek)
  • Kalamazoo County
  • Van Buren County (Paw Paw, South Haven)
  • Mason County (Ludington)
  • Lake County (Baldwin)
  • Osceola County
  • Berrien County (St. Joseph)
  • Washtenaw County (Ypsilanti, Ann Arbor)
  • and elsewhere throughout Michigan.

If you or someone you know is looking for a criminal defense attorney, call now for a free consultation (616) 458-5500 or connect with us online.

Kalamazoo

TYPES OF CASES

  • White Collar Crimes
  • Tax Crimes
  • Other Financial Crimes
  • Environmental Crimes

Allegan

TYPES OF CASES

  • Domestic Violence
  • Violent Felonies
  • Firearms Offenses
  • Major Cases
  • Murder-for-Hire

Barry

TYPES OF CASES

  • White Collar Crimes
  • Tax Crimes
  • Other Financial Crimes
  • Environmental Crimes

Lona

TYPES OF CASES

  • Domestic Violence
  • Violent Felonies
  • Firearms Offenses
  • Major Cases
  • Murder-for-Hire

Kent

TYPES OF CASES

  • White Collar Crimes
  • Tax Crimes
  • Other Financial Crimes
  • Environmental Crimes

Ottawa

TYPES OF CASES

  • Domestic Violence
  • Violent Felonies
  • Firearms Offenses
  • Major Cases
  • Murder-for-Hire

Muskegon

TYPES OF CASES

  • White Collar Crimes
  • Tax Crimes
  • Other Financial Crimes
  • Environmental Crimes

Mecosta

TYPES OF CASES

  • Domestic Violence
  • Violent Felonies
  • Firearms Offenses
  • Major Cases
  • Murder-for-Hire

Montcalm

TYPES OF CASES

  • White Collar Crimes
  • Tax Crimes
  • Other Financial Crimes
  • Environmental Crimes

Newaygo

TYPES OF CASES

  • White Collar Crimes
  • Tax Crimes
  • Other Financial Crimes
  • Environmental Crimes

Lake

TYPES OF CASES

  • Domestic Violence
  • Violent Felonies
  • Firearms Offenses
  • Major Cases
  • Murder-for-Hire

Mason

TYPES OF CASES

  • White Collar Crimes
  • Tax Crimes
  • Other Financial Crimes
  • Environmental Crimes

Leelanau

TYPES OF CASES

  • White Collar Crimes
  • Tax Crimes
  • Other Financial Crimes
  • Environmental Crimes

Benzie

Grand Traverse

Manistee

Kalkaska

Crawford

Oscoda

Alcona

Oceana

TYPES OF CASES

  • White Collar Crimes
  • Tax Crimes
  • Other Financial Crimes
  • Environmental Crimes

Wexford

Missaukee

Roscommon

Ogemaw

Iosco

Osceola

Clare

Isabella

Ionia

Clinton

Eaton

Ingham

Van Buren

Calhoun

Jackson

Berrien

Cass

St. Joseph

Branch

Gladwin

Arenac

Midland

Bay

Huron

Gratiot

Saginaw

Tuscola

Sanilac

Shiawassee

Genesee

Lapeer

St. Clair

Livingston

Oakland

Macomb

Hillsdale

Washtenaw

Wayne

Lenawee

Monroe

Antrim

Otsego

Montmorency

Alpena

Presque Isle

Charlevoix

Emmet

Cheboygan

Our Locations

616-458-5500
Grand Rapids

60 MONROE CENTER ST NW #500
GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49503

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