At the Law Office of Kevin Bessant & Associates, we understand that facing felony charges can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. Our mission is to guide you through the complex legal process in Michigan with expertise and compassion. In this blog post, we'll take you through the key stages of the felony court process, from arrest to sentencing, to help you better understand what to expect if you or someone you know is facing felony charges in Michigan.
Arrest and Booking
The first step in the felony court process is the arrest and booking of the accused individual. Once the police have probable cause to believe that a felony has been committed, they will make an arrest. The accused is then taken to the police station for booking, which involves recording personal information and the nature of the alleged crime. It is crucial to remember that at this stage, the accused has the right to remain silent and the right to legal representation. We recommend contacting our firm immediately to ensure your rights are protected.
Initial Appearance and Bail Hearing
Following the arrest and booking, the accused will have an initial appearance before a judge. During this appearance, the charges are formally presented, and the accused has the opportunity to enter a plea. Having a skilled defense attorney by your side can make a significant difference at this stage. Our Law Office of Kevin Bessant & Associates team can help you understand your options and provide invaluable guidance.
If the accused is granted bail, a bail hearing will be held to determine the amount required for release before the trial. Our experienced attorneys can advocate on your behalf to secure a reasonable bail amount or explore alternative options like a pre-trial release to ensure you can return home to your family and prepare for the upcoming court proceedings.
Preliminary Examination
In Michigan, felony cases typically proceed through a preliminary examination, a hearing where the prosecution must present evidence to establish probable cause that the accused committed the alleged felony. This stage is critical because if the prosecution fails to meet the required standard, the charges may be reduced or even dismissed. Our dedicated attorneys will rigorously examine the evidence presented, challenge weak arguments, and work to protect your rights throughout the preliminary examination.
Arraignment and Plea Negotiations
After the preliminary examination, the case will move to the arraignment phase. The accused will be formally informed of the charges and asked to enter a plea. Our legal team will thoroughly explain the implications of each plea option. If it is in your best interest, we will negotiate with the prosecution to potentially secure a favorable plea deal. However, we never pressure our clients into accepting plea offers and will always be prepared to proceed to trial if it is the best course of action for your case.
Pre-trial Motions and Discovery
Before the trial begins, both the defense and prosecution can file pre-trial motions. These motions can address various issues, such as the admissibility of evidence or the dismissal of certain charges. Our firm has a comprehensive understanding of pre-trial strategies and will use every available legal avenue to build a strong defense on your behalf.
Trial and Sentencing
If your case proceeds to trial, our experienced trial attorneys will fight tirelessly to present a compelling defense and challenge the prosecution's evidence. We understand the gravity of a felony conviction in Michigan and will do everything possible to seek a favorable outcome. Our commitment does not end there if the trial results in a conviction. We will continue to advocate for you during the sentencing phase to ensure your rights are protected and work to secure the most favorable sentencing possible.
We are dedicated to providing aggressive and compassionate legal representation to those facing felony charges in Michigan. Our experience and track record speak for themselves, and we are ready to stand by your side throughout every step of the felony court process. If you or someone you know needs skilled legal representation, do not hesitate to contact us today. We are here to fight for justice on your behalf.
Contact the Law Office of Kevin Bessant & Associates today if you or a loved one are facing felony charges!