Criminal Defense Lawyers -- St. Joseph, MI.

Serving Benton Harbor, Bridgman, Berrien Springs & The Greater Southwest Michigan Area

If you’ve recently been charged with a crime, you’re likely feeling incredibly overwhelmed. Your family, your freedom, and your reputation may all be in jeopardy. When so much is on the line, put your case in the hands of an experienced legal team. Your future is too important to leave to chance.

At The Law Offices of Mais & Sible, Attorneys at Law, we are ready to fight tooth and nail for the outcome you deserve. Whether you’ve been accused of a minor infraction, a misdemeanor, or a felony, we have the skills to help you pursue justice. From our office in St. Joseph , we proudly represent clients throughout the greater southwest Michigan area for over 30 years. Schedule a free consultation with us today.

Charges We Defend

The consequences of a conviction can be devastating, but having a solid understanding of your charges may help you prepare a better defense. The Law Offices of Mais & Sbile, Attorneys at Law has experience defending clients against a variety of criminal charges. We are ready to help you craft a case geared toward results.

Civil infractions are minor violations of the law that are typically punishable by fines. Michigan classifies them into 2 categories; 1.) traffic civil infractions &  2.) non traffic civil infractions.

Common traffic-related examples include:

  • Speeding
  • Careless driving
  • Defective equipment
  • Failure to yield
  • Disobeying a traffic control device

Michigan Non-Traffic Civil Infractions Often Include:

  • Violating building codes or permits
  • Violating ordinances regulating the disposal of refuse or yard waste
  • Excessive noise
  • Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit
  • Disobeying state land-use rules, like those of a state campground or forest

Unless the defendant is found to be in criminal contempt, he or she cannot be sentenced to jail time. In these cases, criminal contempt usually means the defendant failed to pay the assigned fine, fee, or costs.

Misdemeanors

Michigan law views misdemeanors as low-level criminal offenses. Many misdemeanors can also be tried as felonies, such as DUIs, violent crimes, or drug offenses. Misdemeanor trials will examine factors such as intent, presence of injuries, the value of property or goods involved, any priors of the defendant, and the offense itself.

Misdemeanors Penalties Can Include:

  • Jail time
  • Heavy fines
  • Community service
  • Driver's license suspension
  • Alcohol or drug treatment
  • Probation

Get in touch with The Law Offices of Mais & Sible, Attorneys at Law if you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor. We’re ready to help you navigate the legal system and fight fiercely on your behalf.

Felony Defense Attorneys

Federal law defines a felony as any crime punishable by more than 1 year in prison. Michigan breaks down felonies into categories as follows:

  • Class A felonies 

Examples: murder and first-degree sexual misconduct

Punishable by up to life in prison

  • Class B felonies

Examples: second-degree child abuse, production of child pornography, and second-degree arson

Punishable by up to 20 years in prison

  • Class C felonies

Examples: manslaughter and robbery

Punishable by up to 15 years in prison

  • Class D felonies 

Examples: embezzlement, human trafficking, and larceny worth over $20,000

Punishable by up to 10 years in prison

  • Class E felonies

Examples: retail fraud and home invasion

Punishable by up to 5 years in prison

  • Class F felonies 

Examples: Unauthorized loans or credit applications

Punishable by up to 4 years in prison

  • Class G felonies

Examples: domestic assault and intentionally writing a bad check over $500

Punishable by up to 2 years in prison

  • Class H felonies

Examples: Misuse of personal information or use of a stolen ID

Can result in probation, treatment, or electronic monitoring

If convicted of a felony, you could lose civil rights such as your ability to vote, hold public office, or join the military. Your job opportunities may also suffer, as U.S. employers are legally allowed to ask about prior convictions.

At The Law Offices of Mais & Sible, Attorneys at Law we have experience battling a wide variety of criminal charges throughout the State of Michigan. We understand that from the perspective of a person charged with a crime, the government appears to have all the power over your case and your future freedom. We are committed to fighting for you to protect your rights, to make sure your voice is heard, and to get you the best result that is possible for your charge.

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