What Happens if You Plead Guilty at an Arraignment in Michigan?
The arraignment is a critical stage of the criminal justice process where you will be formally informed of the charges against you and given the
Experienced Michigan Criminal Defense Lawyer
The day you are charged with a crime is not only one of the most difficult days in your life but also a moment that can change your life forever. It is true that anything you do or say can and will be used against you. Due to the nature of our legal system, it is crucial that you have a great criminal defense lawyer in your corner, every moment and every step of the way.
The minute that you have been charged with a crime or suspect that you will be charged, call for a free consultation with Michigan criminal defense lawyer Paul Tafelski. Mr. Tafelski is the founder of Michigan Defense Law. He is a criminal defense attorney with more than 20 years of experience, and with a reputation for a rigorous, no-nonsense approach to criminal defense. Mr. Tafelski is licensed to practice law in Michigan state and federal courts, as well as in the United States Supreme Court. Paul Tafelski and the entire team at Michigan Defense Law are in your corner from day one, working hard to protect your rights, freedom, and reputation. Whether you are the target of an investigation or you have been formally arrested and charged, there are essential things we can do to protect your rights and your freedom. Nobody should face the criminal system alone. Let us help.
To schedule a free consultation with Mr. Tafelski, call us today at (248) 451-2200.
Schedule a
Free Consultation
Paul J. Tafelski is an excellent choice for an attorney. We were stuck in a difficult situation, he listened intently, was sincere, and made us feel supported during a very stressful time. He answers all questions and doesn’t talk about money. He is an upstanding professional who really does want to help! We are so glad that we found a compassionate human being to help us during a very vulnerable time. Thank you Paul for all of your help!!!
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
If you are convicted of a crime, you can face a broad range of penalties, from significant fines to years in prison. You can lose your career, and your freedom and your name and reputation can be tarnished for the rest of your life. When you are facing criminal charges, the quality of your defense is critical.
Fortunately, being charged with a crime does not mean being convicted of one. What happens in between can affect your entire life. Don’t leave the rest of your life’s path to change. Contact Mr. Tafelski and the talented Michigan criminal defense attorneys at Michigan Defense Law, we can help.
For over 20 years, we have aggressively defended our clients against a broad spectrum of criminal charges, helping to secure the best possible outcome. Criminal defense takes laser-focused attention to the smallest details and possible scenarios. Founding attorney Paul J. Tafelski is a graduate of Michigan State University College of Law. He has a superior track record of representing his clients from arraignment through jury trials in all matters, ranging from minor misdemeanors to major felonies. Consistently rated as a top criminal lawyer in Michigan, Paul J. Tafelski and the skilled criminal defense attorneys at Michigan Defense Law are in your corner. Without skilled representation, you are at a grave disadvantage. At Michigan Defense Law, we have your back.
For a free consultation, call us at (248) 451-2200.
Michigan has many alcohol-impairment criminal offenses with different consequences.
They include:
The state of Michigan takes DUI and OWVI charges seriously with severe penalties for convicted offenders. If you have been charged with a DUI offense, you could be facing:
If you are facing the system alone, you have a lot to lose. And facing this system without the knowledge of complex DUI laws and your possible defense opportunities puts you at serious risk. At Michigan Defense Law, we understand that even a good person can make mistakes. Our team of Michigan DUI lawyers is on your side.
Our skilled team takes a tailored approach to each client’s DUI situation to create the best defense strategy for you. Some of these can be to question the legality of the stop itself, the chemical test results, or even the lack of evidence indicating substantial impairment. There may be an opportunity for a plea arrangement for less harsh consequences. Don’t face these charges alone. Criminal attorney Paul J. Tafelski and our team of knowledgeable Michigan criminal lawyers are ready to help.
Call our law firm, Michigan Defense Law, at (248) 451-2200 to speak with us about your case to learn how we may be able to help.
I’ve used Paul for a BAIID appeal hearing multiple times. He has been very professional is very knowledgeable in the laws applicable. I’ve used other attorneys in the past but have never had the satisfaction as I’ve had with Paul. Most attorneys will over promise but be hard to reach after the contract is signed. Despite the time of day or the day of the week, he has always immediately responded to me. In addition, his assistant Karen has always been incredibly helpful in making calls to the SOS on my behalf. Although he may not have all the answers immediately, his immediate reply has reassured me numerous times. Just knowing that he’s reachable allayed much of my anxiety. In the end, he went above and beyond to make sure everything worked out. I would gladly recommend him to friends and family without hesitation.
When you have been charged with a criminal drug offense in Michigan, it can not only result in severe consequences and possible jail time, but it can affect your entire future. A drug conviction will follow you for the rest of your life, affecting your ability to get a job or even get a place to live. Unfortunately, as we see in the national media, what many drug offenders need is more support, not more jail time.
At Michigan Defense Law, we aggressively defend you against drug charges that can alter the course of your life. These include:
Drug Trafficking/Delivery Manufacture
Trafficking can include anything involving manufacturing, delivering, or possessing a controlled substance with the intent to sell. Trafficking is always a felony conviction, although penalties will depend on the drug and amount. If the charges involve a lot of drugs or ones that are being distributed across state lines or national borders, the charges can be federal prosecution.
Use and possession of marijuana
While recreational use of marijuana is legal in the state of Michigan, there are still laws surrounding who can use it, how much you have, and where you use it. Consequently, you can still be charged with marijuana use or possession in Michigan if it is outside legal parameters.
Use of a controlled substance
The use of any illegal drug can result in a misdemeanor crime, with penalties varying depending on the drug.
Possession of a controlled substance
Possessing is not using. But the harshness of the consequences will be dependent on the drug and the amount of the drug in possession, from a misdemeanor to a felony.
Cultivation, sale, and possession of marijuana with intent
While marijuana may be legal in Michigan, the growth, sale, and distribution of it are strictly regulated. Anything outside personal use parameters without a valid license can have serious consequences.
Counterfeit drugs
Any criminal charges involving the production or trafficking of counterfeit prescription, synthetic, or imitation controlled substances can be considered felony offenses and result in years in prison.
Prescription drug offenses
Anyone found with prescription forms that are not their own, with a doctor’s prescription pad, fraudulent prescription pad, or counterfeit drugs can be charged with a criminal offense.
Operating With the Presence of Drugs
This is basically drunk driving on drugs. Whether operating while impaired by legally prescribed medication or operating with the mere presence of illegal or non-prescribed drugs these cases are serious and carry all of the consequences of drunk driving.
Fortunately, depending on the circumstances surrounding your case, there are many defense strategies available to a skilled Michigan criminal defense lawyer when defending you against any drug charge. Defense Attorney Paul J. Tafelski and the experienced Michigan drug crime lawyers at Michigan Defense Law vigorously defend your rights when you are facing criminal drug charges.
For a free consultation regarding your case, call us now at (248) 451-2200.
I didn’t know much about the entire legal process so Paul was a great Lawyer for me. He took the time to explain everything without making me feel dumb. He fought for me and got me a great outcome for my case. He is a great guy that eased my stress about my case and I would recommend him to anyone. Thank you Paul!
The state of Michigan has many statutes concerning theft and property-related criminal offenses, with penalties ranging from fines to prison time.
is when an individual has entered a home without the permission of the owners with the intention of committing a crime while there. This is always a felony and penalties are severe, depending on the level of charges and circumstances surrounding the case.
Has a broad range of charges and consequences, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the nature of the theft and the value of the goods.
The stealing of money or personal property from an employer by an employee or trusted provider. Depending on the value of the property taken, it can be considered a misdemeanor or felony.
Credit card fraud
Occurs when an individual takes another party’s credit card. An individual can be charged with credit card fraud even if the credit card was never used. This crime is usually called Financial Transaction Device.
Identity theft
Is when one individual uses another’s personal information to obtain goods, services, or money. Identity theft is diligently prosecuted in Michigan.
Theft from a store or any action that results in the individual paying less for a retail item. These charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies.
Auto theft or unlawfully driving away an automobile
Is considered a felony that can result in a prison sentence.
Carjacking
Stealing a car with the occupants in it and can be punishable by prison time
Vandalism
Is when an individual has deliberately damaged or destroyed public or private property. Although many consider vandalism minor, it can be considered a felony if the damage is valued at $1,000 or more.
If you have been charged with a theft or property offense, getting the legal representation of a skilled Michigan criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible is critical. At Michigan Defense Law, criminal attorney Paul J. Tafelski and our team of experienced Michigan lawyers who specialize in criminal defense are aggressive legal advocates who work tirelessly toward the best possible outcome for our clients.
For a free consultation, contact us today at (248) 451-2200.
When I recently had an issue at the airport, I decided to call Paul on the weekend. He called me back on a Sunday! He dealt with my issue without me having to fly back to Michigan and got it dismissed. Until you go through the court system especially for the first time, you don’t have a sense for how harrowing it can be.
Michigan takes violent crimes seriously, and prosecutors have a reputation for punishing defendants harshly. Conviction of a violent crime will not only result in serious consequences and potential years behind bars, but it will haunt you for the rest of your life. Having the aggressive legal defense of an experienced Michigan criminal defense lawyer is critical at these times.
At Michigan Defense Law, we will diligently protect your legal rights if you have been charged with:
Assault and Battery
Assault is the threat of violence against someone, and battery is the action. Consequently, a victim doesn’t even need to be hurt to bring charges. Serious injuries usually lead to much harsher charges and consequences. Assault charges become further complicated with the addition of aggravating factors such as the addition of a weapon or in the commission of another crime.
Homicide
The act of taking another person’s life. While first-degree murder is an act of taking another person’s life. While first-degree murder is an intentional or premeditated act, second-degree murder concerns other kinds of murder. Homicide is the most serious crime you can be charged with, and you should never face these charges alone. Call Michigan Defense Law to understand how our experienced Michigan criminal defense attorneys can defend you against these serious charges.
Is when an individual has threatened or carried out violence against a romantic partner, either current or former, a family member, or someone who lives with them. Domestic violence charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies.
Child Abuse
Is the act of knowingly or intentionally causing physical or mental harm to a child. These charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies.
Violent crimes are aggressively prosecuted in Michigan. If you have been charged with a violent crime, you want an equally aggressive Michigan criminal defense lawyer on your side.
If you have been accused or charged with a violent crime, you need skilled legal representation as soon as possible, ensuring that your legal rights are being defended from day one. At Michigan Defense Law, we are here to help. Founding attorney Paul J. Tafelski and our team of skilled aggravated assault attorneys have successfully defended people from arraignment through jury trials and in all types of matters from minor misdemeanors to major felonies.
To schedule a free consultation, call us today at (248) 451-2200.
Paul is an exceptional professional who worked on my case and helped me get lowest sentence possible. His expertise, dedication and friendly attitude are more than you would expect. Also the fees were pleasantly moderate. Highly recommended!
While we all understand the terrible toll that domestic violence takes on individuals and families, it is also one of the most falsely reported crimes in the United States. Unfortunately, false claims of domestic violence are often made to gain leverage and control over the other person.
Not only is being charged with domestic violence a serious charge resulting in significant fines and jail time, but it can also affect the long-term reputation and employability of an individual. It can also have an adverse effect on divorce and custody situations. We are skilled and experienced at managing all these situations.
Due to the serious nature of domestic violence in our country, law enforcement in Michigan can make an immediate arrest in a domestic case with “reasonable cause.” This often relies only on the testimony of the alleged victim. An arrest most likely will result in an order prohibiting contact with the accuser. This means if you lived with the accuser you can’t return to your own home while the matter is pending. Violations of no-contact orders can result in severe penalties and even jail time.
If you are facing charges of domestic violence, the sooner you retain legal counsel, the better. It is important that you take all orders imposed by the court seriously and contact a Michigan criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. There are many legal options and strategies available against charges of domestic violence. At the law firm Michigan Defense Law, lead attorney Paul J. Tafelski and our team of knowledgeable Michigan domestic violence lawyers have over 20 years of experience defending individuals against criminal charges, including serious domestic violence charges. We will spare no resources to defend your rights.
To schedule a free consultation, contact us today at (248) 451-2200.
Paul Tafelski guided me through a complicated legal maze during an emotionally trying time in my life. Through the process, Paul treated me with the utmost respect of a person who made a mistake. His technical skills, character and manner of handling the situation produced a wonderful result which has allowed me to move on with my life with minimal damage. I am extremely grateful and appreciative of his professionalism and obvious skills. Thank you Paul.
The serious impact of a juvenile crime can be highly underestimated. Being charged with a crime as a juvenile can have many long-term consequences, including the ability to obtain employment or even get into a college of choice. Many regrettable mistakes are made when we are younger, but they should not have life-altering consequences.
If you or a family member has been accused or charged with a criminal offense as a juvenile, getting legal representation is critical. At our firm, the Michigan Defense Law, criminal lawyer Paul J. Tafelski and our team of skilled juvenile crime attorneys who specialize in criminal defense will aggressively protect your or your child’s rights and help keep any conviction off your permanent record, if possible.
To schedule a free consultation, contact us today at (248) 451-2200.
My son was charged with two serious felonies for home invasion. Paul worked long and hard on the case and was able to negotiate a deal so that all of the charges were dismissed after my son completed probation. He is now in college without a criminal record.
These are the basic steps in a Michigan criminal court proceeding. The process differs slightly for felonies/misdemeanors but these are the common steps to expect in a criminal court procedure.
Arraignment
This is your first appearance in court following an arrest. The defendant must enter a plea during the arraignment. There are three options for pleas: guilty, not guilty, or nolo contendere (no contest).
Pretrial
During a pretrial hearing, certain elements are taken into consideration to determine if a case can proceed to trial. These factors could include evidence exclusions, issues with search and seizure, etc.
Trial
This is where the case will be presented to the judge or the prosecutor. It is the prosecution's responsibility to prove the defendant guilty of the offense they are charged with.
Verdict
Once the prosecution and defense have presented their case, it is up to the judge or jury to make their decision. The defendant could be found guilty or not guilty, or in some cases, the case may require a new trial.
Sentencing
Once the verdict has been rendered, a second court hearing will take place to decide the sentencing of the convicted offender. The judge will generally use a presentence report from a probation officer, which details sentencing recommendations. Sometimes, the defense and prosecution may work together to provide sentencing recommendations for the judge.
Appeal
There are many legal grounds to appeal a conviction. These could include legal errors, and issues regarding the jury or the judge, among others. Depending on the case the verdict can be appealed in its entirety or reduced penalties may be applied.
Recent Blog Posts
The arraignment is a critical stage of the criminal justice process where you will be formally informed of the charges against you and given the
Finding employment when you have a criminal record can always be difficult, whether it is with a private company or a large enterprise like the
What Is the Difference Between DUI, OWI, OWPD, and OWVI Charges in Michigan? Throughout the country, some common acronyms are used to denote drunk driving.
Police are constantly put into dangerous positions in the pursuit of their work. Consequently, anything that creates more danger to the public and the officers
If you have been convicted of a felony in Michigan, you will lose your right to possess a firearm both at the state and federal
Michigan has established laws that regulate the age at which individuals can legally consent to sexual activities. These laws are put in place to protect
Schedule a
Free Consultation
If you are under investigation for or have been charged with a crime in Michigan, you may be facing serious consequences. These can not only result in severe penalties, fines, and jail time but alter your future, staying with you for the rest of your life. No one should face the criminal justice system alone.
Law enforcement and prosecutors have an advantage when the individual they have arrested is not represented. Most individuals charged with a crime have very limited knowledge, if any, of the law and their legal rights. As a defendant, you have important legal rights. Never speak with anyone until you have an attorney present to ensure that those rights are being protected.
At Michigan Defense Law, founding lawyer Paul J. Tafelski and our experienced attorneys who specialize in criminal defense understand what you are facing and immediately get to work building a skilled legal defense on our behalf. Whether you have faced an accusation or have been formally arrested and charged, getting aggressive legal representation should be your very first move.
At Michigan Defense Law, criminal defense attorney Paul J. Tafelski and our team of experienced criminal defense lawyers have dedicated our careers to assisting individuals facing serious criminal charges. For over 20 years, we have sought justice for those who are facing the legal justice system. We bring a comprehensive understanding of the ramifications of convictions combined with a practical approach to resolving cases in the best possible way. Through our hard work, skilled command of Michigan criminal law, and diligent representation in and out of court, we have earned a reputation as one of Michigan’s most respected criminal defense lawyers. Don’t risk your freedom.
Contact us through our website or call us at (248) 451-2200 today.
Navigation
Navigation
Open Hours
Disclaimer: The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established. Please be advised that the results achieved in any given case depend upon the exact facts and circumstances of that case. Michigan Defense Law cannot guarantee a specific result in any legal matter. Any testimonial or case result listed on this site is based on an actual legal case and represents the results achieved in that particular case, and does not constitute a guarantee, warranty or prediction of the outcome of any other legal matter. Privacy Policy | Terms of Service.