Retail theft, also known as shoplifting, is a relatively minor crime in Michigan. Retail fraud in the third degree, which is defined as taking an item worth less than $200, is a misdemeanor that is typically punished with probation and a fine. What many people are not...
Theft is a common crime in Michigan. A lot of people think that individuals steal out of necessity while others engage in such behavior for the thrill or simply out of a desire to acquire something they’d rather not pay for. But for some time now, scientists have dug...
Among many other things, 2020 was a year of civil unrest throughout much of the United States, including here in Michigan. Massive protests, along with notable crime trends in the Detroit area, highlighted the tense relationship between law enforcement and portions of...
It’s no secret that many claim that the legal system disproportionately affects those in poor and minority communities. One area where this disproportionate impact is clear is in Michigan’s cash bail system. For most alleged criminal offenses, accused individuals are...
In all legal cases, criminal and civil, evidence is the key to the case. In criminal cases, the prosecution must have sufficient evidence to prove every element of the crime charge “beyond a reasonable doubt.” When the evidence is insufficient to meet this high...
Suppose that Michigan law enforcement arrests you. Will you have to pay money before going home. Although there are efforts underway to eliminate cash bail, cash bail is widly utilized today in Michigan Courts. The Courts will consider a variety of factors when...
Like most people in Troy, you likely have a good deal of faith in the criminal justice system. That faith may lead you to believe that there is no way an erroneous criminal charge against you could result in a conviction. Indeed, you hope that the natural workings of...
In 2016, 97.3% of defendants in the federal criminal justice system conceded guilt. This means that less than 3% of defendants exercised their constitutional right to trial. The vast majority of a criminal defense attorney's time is dedicated to plea bargaining - we...
In The Justice System, the federal government recently announced that it will be adding approximately 300 Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) nationwide. This increase marks the largest in decades. The government intends to increase resources to combat violent...
The attorney-client privilege in The Justice System, which ensures that a client can honestly communicate with an attorney in seeking advice and aid, is a cornerstone of the U.S. legal system. The privilege generally prevents an attorney from being compelled or even...