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Walker Criminal Defense Lawyer
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Walker Criminal Defense Lawyer

Why Choose SBBL Law?

At SBBL Law, we are committed to providing strategic, client-focused defense for individuals facing criminal charges in Michigan. With a deep understanding of both state and federal criminal law, our team is equipped to handle even the most complex cases. We work tirelessly to protect your rights and develop a tailored strategy that aligns with your unique circumstances.

Our team includes former federal prosecutors, FBI agents, and Army JAGs who bring unparalleled experience to your defense. This insider knowledge allows us to anticipate the prosecution’s tactics and effectively challenge their case. Whether advocating for favorable plea agreements, addressing constitutional violations, or litigating in court, we strive to secure an outcome that allows you to avoid the most serious penalties under the law.

Federal offenses that occur in Walker are charged in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan, and they are entirely separate from the state and county court system.

Understanding Your Rights Following Criminal Charges in Walker

Facing criminal charges comes with high stakes. From the moment of your arrest, your constitutional rights come into play, including the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel. If charged with a crime in Walker, your case will begin in the 59th District Court, and your first hearing will be an arraignment in front of the judge. At that hearing, the judge will set bond if it has not been set already. If you are charged with a misdemeanor, then your case will stay in the 59th District Court for the duration of the case. If any of your charges are felonies or high-court misdemeanors, your case will eventually move up to the Kent County Circuit Court (17th Circuit Court) for any plea and sentencing if the judge binds the case over to circuit court. “Bindover” means when the district court judge determines that the prosecutor has presented probable cause that the crime charged has been committed, and the case moves on to circuit court for the rest of the case. The district court judge makes this decision at the preliminary examination, also called the “prelim.” Alternatively, some defendants decide to waive the prelim to preserve a favorable offer from the prosecutor or for a variety of other strategic reasons.

Whether accused of a misdemeanor or felony, understanding your legal options is essential to preserving your rights throughout the process.

At SBBL Law, we work to safeguard your rights at every stage of the criminal justice process. Our team identifies weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, from unlawfully obtained evidence to unreliable witness testimony. We look for weaknesses that can result in the reduction or even dismissal of charges.

With a focus on providing strategic, results-driven representation, we tailor our approach to meet the specific needs of your case. Let us serve as the barrier between you and the criminal justice system, protecting your freedom and your future.

State and Federal Crimes in Michigan

Criminal offenses in Michigan can involve either state or federal jurisdiction, depending on the nature of the alleged offense. Whether a case becomes a state or federal case depends on the alleged crime that has been committed and whether a local, state, or federal law enforcement agency investigated the crime. While state courts handle most charges involving theft, assault, sex crimes, and smaller fraud schemes, federal courts often handle more complex drug trafficking, tax evasion, money laundering, internet crimes against children, and firearms cases involving convicted felons. Federal cases often involve agencies like the FBI, ATF, IRS, or DEA and come with heightened penalties, making an aggressive legal defense critical.

SBBL Law has the experience needed to defend against state and federal charges. We understand how the government builds cases and use that insight to our advantage.

Why Legal  Representation Is Crucial Following Criminal Charges

A criminal charge is the first step in a process that could have lasting consequences on your freedom, reputation, and future. Without skilled legal representation, you risk facing the full force of the criminal justice system without an advocate to challenge evidence, expose procedural errors, or present mitigating factors. Even seemingly minor charges can escalate without proper defense.

Every criminal case demands a thorough approach to address weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments and protect the defendant’s rights. Evaluating evidence, challenging constitutional violations, and negotiating favorable outcomes are essential steps in minimizing the long-term impact of a criminal charge.

 

Team Leader

Matthew G. Borgula

Criminal Defense Attorney , Partner
888-915-8064

Senior Counsel

Mikayla S. Hamilton

Criminal Defense Attorney, Partner
888-915-8064

 

Team Leader

Tessa K. Muir

Criminal Defense & Title IX Attorney, Partner
888-915-8064

Team Leader

Kathryn M. Springstead

Chief Appellate Counsel
231-924-8700

Team Leader

Michael Bartish

Criminal Defense Attorney, Partner
616-458-5500

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in Michigan?

A: The cost to hire a criminal defense lawyer in Michigan depends on factors like the case complexity, the seriousness of the charges, and the attorney’s level of experience. Many lawyers charge flat fees, while others charge hourly rates. Discussing fees during an initial consultation can help you better understand potential costs. Be sure to understand whether any portion of the fee is non-refundable.

Q: What Is the Difference Between a Criminal Prosecutor and a Criminal Defense Attorney?

A: A criminal prosecutor represents the government, working to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. A criminal defense attorney defends the accused person by challenging the prosecution’s evidence and ensuring a fair trial. Prosecutors focus on securing convictions, while defense attorneys aim to protect the defendant’s rights. Both play crucial, opposing roles in maintaining balance within the criminal justice system.

Q: What Should I Do if I’m Arrested for a Crime in Michigan?

A: If you’re arrested for a crime in Michigan, remain calm and invoke your right to remain silent. Do not answer questions without an attorney present, as anything you say can be used against you. Avoid discussing your case with anyone, even friends or family. Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately to protect your rights, challenge evidence, and begin building a strong defense tailored to your situation.

Q: Who Has the Burden of Proof in a Criminal Case?

A: In criminal cases, the burden of proof lies entirely with the prosecution. Prosecutors must establish the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt to secure a conviction. The defense’s role is to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and raise reasonable doubt whenever possible. This standard ensures the accused is presumed innocent unless the prosecution successfully proves otherwise, providing a critical safeguard in the legal process.

Q: Who Is More Powerful, a Judge or a Prosecutor?

A: Judges and prosecutors hold distinct roles in criminal cases. Prosecutors decide what to charge, present evidence, and build the case, while judges oversee proceedings to ensure fairness. Judges determine sentences and ensure procedural steps are followed. While prosecutors influence the case’s direction, judges hold ultimate authority by making crucial legal rulings and ensuring compliance with the law.

Schedule Your Walker Criminal Defense Consultation Today

Facing criminal charges in Walker, MI, requires immediate action to protect your rights and your future. A strong legal defense makes the difference between a favorable resolution and severe consequences. Whether the charges involve misdemeanors or felonies, taking the first step toward building a defense is essential.

Addressing legal challenges early on ensures evidence is thoroughly reviewed, procedural errors are identified, and all available strategies are considered. By seeking skilled legal representation, defendants can ensure their rights are upheld, and every opportunity for a positive outcome is pursued. Schedule a consultation today to begin addressing your charges and securing your future.

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 (231) 924-8700 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

Fremont

28 W. MAIN STREET
FREMONT, MI 49412

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