by Ryan Maesen | Jan 5, 2026 | Criminal Defense
Many people are unclear about the difference between being detained and being arrested in Michigan. While both involve interactions with law enforcement, the legal standards, rights, and potential consequences vary greatly. Knowing the difference between these two...
by Ryan Maesen | May 22, 2025 | Criminal Defense
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...
by Ryan Maesen | Dec 4, 2024 | Criminal Defense
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...
by Ryan Maesen | Aug 27, 2024 | Criminal Defense
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...
by Ryan Maesen | Feb 21, 2024 | Criminal Defense, Retail Fraud / Theft / Burglary
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...
by Ryan Maesen | Sep 13, 2023 | Criminal Defense
If a Michigan police officer pulls you over in traffic and asks you to step out of your vehicle, chances are you’re suspected of drunk driving. What happens next depends on numerous factors, including whether the officer in question establishes probable cause to...
by Ryan Maesen | Jun 8, 2023 | Criminal Defense
If you face criminal charges in a Michigan court, the strength of your defense will determine the outcome of your case. The type of defense strategy you employ depends on the charges against you. For instance, if you’re headed to court for an unpaid traffic ticket,...
by Ryan Maesen | Mar 29, 2023 | Criminal Defense
Facing a criminal conviction is a potentially life-changing time when your future is unclear. In many cases, plea bargaining represents an opportunity to minimize the consequences you face and keep you out of jail. Plea bargains are advantageous and increase the...