Michigan Criminal Defense Lawyers Provide Strong Counsel
Metamora firm protects the rights of accused individuals
Michigan imposes strict penalties on individuals accused of breaking the law. If you or someone you love is arrested for driving while intoxicated, sexual assault or any other type of misdemeanor or felony crime, consult with an experienced lawyer immediately. At Kohl, Harris, Nolan & McCarthy, P.C. in Metamora, our lawyers have more than 90 years of combined experience protecting the rights of people just like you. We understand you may be scared, confused and overwhelmed by what is happening, but you can count on our legal team to provide the strongest possible defense under the circumstances of your case.
Types of felony and misdemeanor cases
We challenge prosecutors and the evidence they bring in a full range of criminal defense matters, including cases stemming from alleged:
- Drug crimes — Our firm defends clients accused of all types of drug crimes, including possession, delivery, manufacturing and trafficking charges.
- Domestic violence — In domestic violence cases involving spouses, co-parents and other parties who are in a relationship, our firm looks to move past the high emotions to secure a fair outcome for clients.
- Sex crimes — A sexual offense charge in Michigan can have devastating repercussions for your personal and professional life. Along with a long prison sentence, individuals convicted of first-, second- or third-degree criminal sexual conduct are required to register as sex offenders. As experienced criminal defense lawyers, we have the skill and knowledge to help protect your freedom and reputation.
- Drunk driving — Getting pulled over on suspicion of drunk or drug-impaired driving can be frightening and costly. Drawing on decades of experience, our lawyers investigate what led up to an OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) charge and strive to protect clients’ freedom and driving privileges.
- Juvenile delinquency — Most criminal or status offenses committed by Michigan residents under 17 are adjudicated using the state’s juvenile justice process. This system is run through the state’s Family Courts and is designed to focus less on punishment and more on establishing accountability that compels a young person to avoid repeat offenses that could impact his or her future. In many cases, we look to resolve cases through diversion, which gives children the chance to atone for what they did by serving their community.
- Federal crimes — Prosecutions for federal crimes take place within a different justice system than the one that handles state offenses. If you’re under investigation or indictment from the U.S. Attorney, it is critical to retain a legal advocate who understands the rules and procedures used in federal court. Our firm has substantial experience in these cases and can explain key concerns such as the mandatory sentencing guidelines.
Whether you’re facing prison time of at least a year, a felony charge or you have been accused of a misdemeanor that will give you a criminal record, police and prosecutors use various tactics to get a conviction. You can count on us to stand up for your rights and even the odds.
Sealing and expunging records
If you have a criminal record in Michigan, you may be able to have it sealed (unable to be seen without a court order) or expunged (destroyed). However, you must first wait five years after your conviction or your release from prison before you can have your record expunged. You can only have one felony or two misdemeanors set aside, and certain types of crimes cannot be shielded, such as sex crimes and traffic-related offenses. Our lawyers can review your case to determine if your criminal record can be expunged. Then, we can help you fill out the necessary documents to begin the process.
Contact an effective Michigan criminal defense lawyer for a free initial consultation
Kohl, Harris, Nolan & McCarthy, P.C. in Metamora represents Michigan clients who have been accused of state and federal crimes. Please call 810-212-5005 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.