Michigan Felony Defense | Rasor Law: Protect Your Rights

What Is a Felony in Michigan?

In Michigan, a felony is a criminal offense punishable by more than one year of incarceration (see MCL 761.1(f)). Felonies range from non-violent offenses to serious violent crimes. Convictions can carry prison time, probation, fines, restitution, and long-term collateral consequences such as firearm restrictions and immigration impacts.

Common Michigan Felony Charges We Defend

We represent clients across a wide spectrum of felony allegations, including:

• Violent offenses
• OWI causing serious injury or death
• Drug delivery/manufacture or possession with intent
• Weapons offenses (including felon-in-possession)
• Theft and property crimes
• Fraud and embezzlement
• Criminal sexual conduct
• Home invasion and burglary
• Probation/parole violation allegations

The Michigan Felony Process at a Glance

A typical felony case may involve:

• Investigation and arrest
• Arraignment on the complaint in district court and setting of bond conditions (bond governed by MCR 6.106)
• A probable-cause conference and preliminary examination in district court (MCL 766.4; MCR 6.110)
• If probable cause is found, bindover to circuit court for further proceedings, plea, or trial (MCL 766.13)
• Pretrial motions and plea negotiations
• Jury trial and, if applicable, sentencing

Every case is unique, and procedures can vary based on the court, charge, and facts.

Rights You Should Assert Immediately

• Remain silent and avoid making statements without counsel.
• Request an attorney and do not consent to searches absent a warrant.
• Preserve evidence (texts, videos, GPS data, surveillance) and identify witnesses.
• Follow bond conditions strictly to avoid additional charges or revocation.
• Do not discuss the case on social media; assume all communications may be reviewed.

Potential Defenses and Strategies

Effective felony defense is fact-driven. Depending on the case, strategies may include challenging the legality of stops, searches, or seizures; suppressing statements if Miranda or voluntariness standards were not met; contesting identification procedures; forensic review of digital or DNA evidence; asserting defenses such as self-defense, lack of intent, alibi, or consent; attacking chain of custody; and negotiating charge reductions or alternative resolutions when appropriate.

Expungement and Collateral Consequences

Michigan law provides pathways to set aside certain convictions, which can improve employment, housing, and licensing prospects. Eligibility depends on the type of offense and an applicable waiting period, and some offenses are not eligible. We evaluate records to determine whether relief may be available and advise on collateral impacts such as firearms, immigration, and professional licensing. See Michigan’s set-aside statute at MCL 780.621 et seq.

Practical Tips From Our Defense Team

Michigan Felony Response Checklist

What to Do If You’re Under Investigation or Charged

• Contact defense counsel before speaking to law enforcement.
• Bring charging documents, bond paperwork, and any police reports to your consultation.
• Make a written timeline while events are fresh.
• Share potential witnesses and evidence immediately so we can act to preserve them.

Speak With a Michigan Felony Defense Attorney

A felony accusation can threaten your freedom, career, and family. Early intervention makes a difference. Contact Rasor Law to schedule a confidential case evaluation.

FAQ

Will I go to jail for a first-time felony in Michigan?

It depends on the charge, facts, guidelines, and mitigation. Some first-time felonies can resolve with probation or alternatives; others carry mandatory minimums. Early advocacy matters.

What happens at the preliminary examination?

The prosecution presents evidence to establish probable cause. The defense can cross-examine and may call witnesses. Many cases resolve by agreement around this stage.

Can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor?

Sometimes. Reductions depend on evidence strength, legal issues, and prosecutorial discretion. Strategic motion practice and mitigation can improve outcomes.

How quickly should I hire a lawyer?

Immediately. Prompt representation protects your rights, preserves evidence, and can influence charging, bond, and case trajectory.

Can I expunge a Michigan felony?

Many, but not all, felonies can be set aside under Michigan’s expungement laws after waiting periods. Eligibility is fact-specific.

What if I missed a court date?

Contact your attorney at once. We can often move to quash the bench warrant and get you back on the docket.

Sources

• MCL 761.1(f) — Definitions; “felony”
• MCL 766.4 — Probable cause conference; scheduling
• MCR 6.110 — Preliminary Examination (Chapter 6, Criminal Procedure)
• MCL 766.13 — Bindover to circuit court
• MCR 6.106 — Pretrial release (bond)
• MCL 780.621 et seq. — Setting aside convictions (expungement)

Disclaimer (Michigan): This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Michigan laws and procedures change and can vary by court and case. Consult a qualified Michigan attorney about your specific situation.