michigan domestic violence defense lawyers

Experienced Michigan Lawyers for Domestic Violence Charges

Defending domestic violence charges in oakland, wayne & macomb counties

If you’ve been charged with domestic violence in Michigan, it’s essential to act quickly. Whether facing a misdemeanor or felony domestic violence charge, the legal consequences can be severe. You need an experienced and aggressive Michigan domestic violence attorney who can protect your rights and help you navigate the legal system.

At the Law Office of Jeffrey Buehner, PLLC, we have extensive experience defending clients against domestic violence charges throughout Michigan, including Detroit, Wayne County, Oakland County, Macomb County and Washtenaw County. Our team is committed to providing strong legal representation for individuals accused of felony domestic violence and misdemeanor domestic violence offenses.

What to Do if You’re Charged with Domestic Violence in Michigan

Domestic violence charges in Michigan can be overwhelming, but it’s important to understand your rights and take the right steps. Whether you’re accused of a misdemeanor or a felony, having the right defense attorney can make all the difference.

If you’ve been arrested or charged with domestic violence in Michigan, consider these steps:

• Stay Calm and Cooperate with Authorities: Even though it’s a stressful situation, staying calm and complying with police instructions is crucial. Cooperation, however, doesn’t necessarily mean making any statement.

• Right to Remain Silent: You have a 5th Amendment Right to Remain Silent. If your situation involved any type of physical contact, you should talk with an attorney before making any statement to the police. Any statement you make can and will be used against you in court.

• Avoid Contact with the Alleged Victim: Michigan law often requires no contact orders, so it’s essential to avoid any communication with the alleged victim, even if they wish to speak with you.

• Contact a Michigan Domestic Violence Lawyer Immediately: You need legal counsel to protect your rights and advise you on the next steps.

• Understand Your Options: A skilled Michigan domestic violence defense attorney can evaluate the evidence against you, help you understand potential defenses, and strategize the best course of action for your case.

Types of Domestic Violence Charges in Michigan

In Michigan, domestic violence charges can be classified as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the severity of the alleged offense and prior criminal history. The penalties for each vary significantly.

Misdemeanor Domestic Violence Charges

A misdemeanor charge is typically applied when there is no significant physical injury to the alleged victim. If the victim suffered an aggravated injury, it can result in the more serious charge of misdemeanor aggravated domestic violence. However, a misdemeanor domestic violence conviction can still carry serious consequences, including:

• Jail time
• Fines
• Probation
• Domestic violence counseling
• A permanent criminal record

Felony Domestic Violence Charges

Felony domestic violence charges are more severe and often result when the alleged victim suffers significant injury or when the defendant has prior domestic violence convictions. Felony charges carry much harsher penalties, including:

• Lengthy prison sentences
• Substantial fines
• Extended probation periods
• Restrictions on firearms
• Mandatory counseling

Common Defenses for Domestic Violence Charges in Michigan

There are several potential defenses that can be raised in domestic violence cases in Michigan. Some of the most common include:

• False Allegations: If the alleged victim is lying or exaggerating the incident, we can use evidence to show the accusations are unfounded.

• Self-Defense: If you acted in self-defense during the altercation, we can present evidence to support this.

• Lack of Evidence: If there is insufficient evidence to prove that a domestic violence incident occurred, we may be able to get the charges dismissed.

• Witness Testimony: If there are witnesses who can support your version of events, this can be used in your defense.

An experienced Michigan domestic violence lawyer will evaluate all the facts and help you build the most effective defense possible.

Penalties for Domestic Violence in Michigan

Domestic violence convictions can result in both criminal penalties and civil consequences. Even if you are not sentenced to jail time, a domestic violence conviction can affect your personal and professional life, including:

• Loss of employment
• Difficulty finding housing
• Damage to your reputation
• Restrictions on child custody and visitation
• Impact on immigration status (for non-citizens)

Our team can help you understand the full scope of the penalties you face and work toward minimizing the consequences.

keep Domestic Violence off your record in Michigan

If you have been charged with domestic violence in Michigan, you may be eligible to keep the charge from becoming a public conviction on your criminal record. Keeping your criminal record clear of a domestic violence conviction can help you to move forward with your life, but it’s crucial to have an attorney guide you through the process.

Contact our Michigan domestic violence defense team to find out if you qualify to keep a domestic violence conviction off of your criminal record.

Why Choose the Law Offices of Jeffrey Buehner, pllc?

At the Law Offices of Jeffrey Buehner, PLLC, we understand the emotional and legal challenges you face when charged with domestic violence in Michigan. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective defense for clients throughout the state, including Detroit, Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County and Washtenaw County.

We have a proven track record of successfully defending clients against felony and misdemeanor domestic violence charges. When you work with us, we will:

• Provide personalized legal counsel tailored to your specific situation
• Aggressively challenge the evidence against you
• Work to get charges reduced or dismissed when possible
• Keep you informed and empowered throughout the legal process

Contact a Michigan Domestic Violence Lawyer Today

If you are facing domestic violence charges in Michigan, don't wait to seek help. Contact the Law Office of Jeffrey Buehner for a free consultation. We will evaluate your case, explain your options, and help you understand how we can best defend you.

Call us today at (248) 865-9640 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation with an experienced Michigan domestic violence attorney today.