Michigan Criminal Defense Blog
Explore legal insights, criminal defense guidance, and practical information from Ryan Maesen Attorney at Law. These articles are designed to help individuals in Grand Rapids and throughout Michigan better understand the criminal justice process, their rights, and the decisions that may affect their future.
Learn about DUI / OWI charges, domestic violence, drug offenses, criminal court procedures, probation violations, warrants, license restoration, and serious felony defense.
How does Michigan classify felonies and misdemeanors?
Understanding how Michigan classifies felonies and misdemeanors helps you know what to expect if facing criminal charges. These classifications affect the penalties, court processes, and long-term consequences. What defines a felony? In Michigan, felonies are serious crimes punishable by more than one year in prison. Felonies include offenses like murder, robbery, and certain drug crimes.
What are the elements of breaking and entering?
If you’re facing breaking and entering charges, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and unsure what to do next. The legal system can be intimidating, but understanding the elements of the charge against you is crucial to building a strong defense. In this blog, we’ll break down the three key elements of breaking and entering. After reading,
How can parents in Michigan support their child if they face underage DUI charges?
Discovering that your child has been charged with an underage DUI can be a distressing experience for any parent. The penalties for underage drinking and driving can be severe, affecting not only a teenager’s present but also their future. It is crucial for parents to take informed and supportive steps to navigate this challenging situation.
How to defend yourself against sex offense charges in Michigan
In Michigan, the consequences of a conviction for a sex offense include severe legal penalties and a lasting impact on one’s personal and professional life. Those who find themselves facing false allegations of criminal sexual conduct are wise to take the matter seriously and take proactive steps to help protect their interests. These include: Learning
When can the police search your car?
If the police pull you over, you might wonder if they have the right to search your car. The answer is not always straightforward. Knowing your rights and understanding when a police search is allowed can help you handle the situation calmly and confidently. When can the police search your vehicle? The police can search
What are the Michigan DUI laws and penalties for impaired drivers?
Leading up to the holiday season, there is often an increase in DUI cases as people attend parties and celebrations throughout Michigan. With this in mind, it’s crucial to understand the potential consequences of driving under the influence and how it can affect your life. Penalties are more severe with .17% BAC or above Michigan
Driving with an unregistered gun in your car
Imagine being stopped by the police while driving down the road with an unregistered gun in your car. Here is what you need to know about what could happen and how to deal with the situation. Michigan’s gun laws First, it is generally legal to possess a firearm inside your vehicle as long as you
Pulled over for DUI in Grand Rapids? Here’s what you need to know
A DUI arrest can be a frightening and confusing experience. The flashing lights, sirens and unfamiliar legal jargon can leave you feeling overwhelmed. If you find yourself facing a DUI charge for the first time in Grand Rapids, take a deep breath. Here are a few tips for navigating the initial steps and protecting your
What to do if you change your mind after stealing
Imagine you have a lapse in judgment and take a piece of expensive jewelry (a ring) from a store or a person. In this hypothetical, you do not get caught, but you change your mind after the fact and want to give it back. If you change your mind and want to return the ring,
DUI stops often include a request for field sobriety tests
During this holiday season, there will no doubt be an increase in traffic in Michigan. You might be among other shoppers and party-goers who get pulled over by the police. If an officer stops you for suspected DUI, it’s important to understand how to exercise your rights. A police officer who thinks you have been