A felony charge in Michigan can lead to devastating and long-lasting consequences. A conviction can mean more than prison time—it may affect your ability to find employment, vote, or maintain custody rights. Felonies are defined as crimes punishable by more than one year of incarceration and often result in a permanent criminal record.
At Fraiberg & Pernie, we provide aggressive legal representation for individuals charged with felonies across Oakland County, Macomb County, and Wayne County. We take these cases seriously, knowing that the outcome can shape the rest of your life.
Unlike misdemeanors, felonies typically involve more complex legal issues and carry harsher penalties. However, not all felonies are violent crimes. Many involve non-violent acts such as financial fraud, property damage, or drug-related activity. Some people are charged because of a single lapse in judgment or due to unclear laws that result in unintended violations.
Felony charges can be brought for conduct that was never intended to cause harm. Some cases involve misunderstandings, false accusations, or cases where the evidence does not support the severity of the charges. Even so, the criminal justice system treats these offenses seriously, and failing to build a strong defense could result in years of imprisonment, large fines, and the loss of key civil rights.
Fraiberg & Pernie defends clients throughout Metro Detroit facing a wide range of felony allegations, including:
Embezzlement: Misuse of funds in positions of trust, even from accounting errors or misunderstandings
Felonious Assault: Assault involving weapons or objects used as weapons, often carrying severe penalties, especially on school grounds or when firearms are involved
Felony Theft: Theft of property over $1,000, with higher charges for property exceeding $20,000 or involving prior convictions
Drug Charges: Includes possession with intent to deliver, manufacture, or distribution, with penalties based on quantity and drug classification
Sex Offenses: Charges such as Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC), solicitation of a minor, child pornography, and accosting a child for immoral purposes, often carrying mandatory registration and severe prison sentences
Motor Vehicle Felonies: Hit-and-run accidents with serious injury or death, OWI involving injury or death, and fleeing law enforcement can lead to up to 15 years in prison
Internet and Computer Crimes: Unauthorized access to systems, solicitation of a minor online, and computer-based fraud schemes. Sentences can reach 10 to 20 years depending on scope and victim age
Identity Theft: Misusing another person’s identity or data to obtain money or services, often linked to additional fraud charges and enhanced sentencing
Michigan classifies felonies from Class H to Class A, depending on severity:
Class A: Life or any number of years (e.g., murder)
Class B: Up to 20 years
Class C: Up to 15 years
Class D: Up to 10 years
Class E: Up to 5 years
Class F: Up to 4 years
Class G: Up to 2 years
Class H: Jail time or alternative sanctions (e.g., probation, treatment programs)
Some crimes also carry mandatory minimums or enhancements if weapons were used or the defendant has prior felony convictions. A felony record may also impact housing, education, immigration, and more.
Facing felony charges means entering a multi-step court process, which typically includes:
Arraignment: A judge informs you of your charges and considers bond or jail
Probable Cause Conference: Your attorney and the prosecutor may discuss plea options or bond adjustments
Preliminary Exam: Evidence is presented to determine if the case should move forward
Pretrial Motions: Requests to dismiss charges, exclude evidence, or reduce bail
Trial: If no plea deal is reached, your case may be decided by a judge or jury
Throughout this process, a felony defense lawyer can seek dismissals, negotiate resolutions, or prepare for litigation, depending on the facts and goals of the case.
In some cases, minors are charged with felony offenses under Michigan’s juvenile justice system. While the procedures are different, the risks are still serious. Juvenile felony offenses may include:
Drug distribution
Criminal sexual conduct
Assault with a weapon
Motor vehicle theft
Internet crimes involving minors
Juveniles may be eligible for diversion, counseling, probation, or rehabilitation. However, some cases may be waived to adult court. Fraiberg & Pernie fights to keep minors out of adult court and secure outcomes that emphasize rehabilitation.
Fraiberg & Pernie evaluates every angle of the prosecution’s case. Our approach may include:
Challenging the basis for a traffic stop or arrest
Disputing the accuracy of evidence or forensic analysis
Questioning witness credibility
Identifying constitutional violations
Negotiating with prosecutors for reduced or alternative charges
We also help clients explore alternatives like mental health court, drug treatment programs, and deferred sentencing agreements, where applicable.
Our felony defense attorneys represent clients in:
Oakland County
Macomb County
Wayne County
Each county has its own legal procedures and nuances, and our attorneys are familiar with how prosecutors and judges operate in these jurisdictions.
If you or a loved one are facing felony charges, early intervention can make a major difference. Our legal team is ready to review the facts, advise you on your options, and begin crafting a strong defense.
Fraiberg & Pernie is committed to defending your future. Reach out today to schedule a consultation.
Fill out the information below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Looking for immediate answers to your questions?
Copyright ©2024 Fraiberg & Pernie. All Right Reserved
Website Design by FirmFinder