Some criminal matters arise out of youthful mistakes. In Michigan, you will be charged as an adult for crimes committed at age 17 and older. Michigan's
legislature recognizes the underdeveloped youthful brain and has offered an approach to help young offenders avoid having a criminal record through the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (HYTA).
Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (HYTA)
Narcotics and Drugs: The Opioid Crisis
Politicians speak frequently about Narcotics and Drugs. Recently, the Trump administration rolled out a plan to combat the opioid crisis, which includes increased funding for Medicaid recipients struggling with addiction and testing for opioids in prisons to direct people towards treatment centers. Also among these measures is a plan to subject some drug cases to the death penalty. No matter where one stands on these efforts, the first question should be: how effective will these measures be?
Animal Cruelty in The Justice System
In The Justice System, often Animal Cruelty cases evoke more outrage among the general public than a child abuse case. And, for anyone that has owned a pet, it's not difficult to understand why. Not only are pets seen as part of the family, but some pet owners even go as far as to give pets birthday and Christmas presents. Annually, owners spend more than $50 billion on pet care, presents, and even professional photos. Today, more than two thirds of American households own pets, and that number is on the rise.
The Justice System: Attorney- Client Conversations - Who is Listening?
In the justice system, when people are incarcerated, they should not expect much privacy. It is understood that law enforcement needs to be able to observe inmates, even listening in on their phone calls and reading their mail. However, law enforcement officials from prison guards to prosecutors know that there are certain privileges that even incarcerated individuals have, especially the attorney-client privilege.
Sentencing: Surviving Your Stay at OCJ
Facing jail time at sentencing is a scary prospect for almost everyone. However, the Law Office of John Freeman, PLLC, has used its years of experience to put together information that could prove important for those facing incarceration at the Oakland County Jail (OCJ) or other local jails:
The Justice System: Client Responsibilities
In the justice system, even the best and most experienced criminal defense attorney can only put a client on solid footing to succeed in life. Like in a parent/child relationship, the client, just like a child, has a responsibility to take advantage of opportunities provided by the attorney (parent).
The Justice System: Client Responsibilities
In the justice system, even the best and most experienced criminal defense attorney can only put a client on solid footing to succeed in life. Like in a parent/child relationship, the client, just like a child, has a responsibility to take advantage of opportunities provided by the attorney (parent).
The Justice System: Will You Get Bail?
In The Justice System, what factors does the court consider in determining whether a client will be granted bail or remain incarcerated pending the outcome of the case? For most clients, this is the single most important issue after learning they have been charged with a criminal offense. Therefore, consider carefully what experienced attorney to retain.
The Justice System: Three Strikes and You're Out
In The Justice System in Michigan, it now appears that Three Strikes means You're Out. Michigan's Legislature has passed new legislation cracking down on habitual felony offenders. Effective October 1, 2012, the Michigan Legislature updated the sentencing guidelines with the law more commonly known as the "Three Strikes Law."
How Often Do Police Investigate Domestic Violence Offenses?
In any criminal prosecution involving allegations that the defendant committed a violent crime such as aggravated assault or murder, important issues such as intent, self-defense and witness credibility come into play. In many cases, competing versions of events must be considered, and this issue is very likely to arise in domestic violence cases.
