The typical Miranda Warnings read by a police officer when an individual is placed into custody include: You have the right to remain silent; Anything you say or do may be used against you in a Court of law; You have the right to consult with a lawyer before speaking…
In Michigan, pursuant to Michigan Compiled Law 791.234b, a prisoner who has a final order of deportation against him or her by the United States Immigration and Naturalization Service may be paroled after serving at least 1/2 of the minimum sentence imposed by the Court. Persons who have been convicted…
EtG (Ethyl Glucuronide) is a common urine test used by Courts to verify whether an individual on bond or probation has used alcohol in the past 3 to 5 days. EtG testing is usually performed at an outside agency which the Court deems reliable (such as JAMS, NOVA, DOTS, etc.). It…
A very common violation of probation allegation in Michigan and elsewhere is for using or testing positive for drugs or alcohol while on probation. The punishment for drug or alcohol related violation of probation can include one or a combination of any of the following: no sanction; added conditions of probation…
Responsible ownership of dogs, cats, and other pets is enforced by local communities. The standards of a particular city may vary from other communities, and it is up to the pet owner to make sure that he or she is in compliance with what is allowed. Some communities view the following as…
The Michigan Parole Board is comprised of a ten member board, with each member appointed by the director of the Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC). The Parole Board meets regularly to review cases and decide whether or not to grant applications for parole. Generally, in order to become eligible for…
Persons younger than 17 years old accused of delinquency often have their matter addressed by the juvenile Court system. Delinquency charges in most cases are not considered as criminal matters, although the charges often stem from behavior that would be prosecuted under criminal law if the person was an adult…
There are several important Statutory and Constitutional Rights that every person who is prosecuted in a Michigan Court for a criminal allegation has: 1. Right to be represented by a lawyer. Anytime your liberty is at risk you have an absolute right to have a lawyer defend you. The right…
There are several important Statutory and Constitutional Rights that every person who is prosecuted in a Michigan Court for a criminal allegation has: 1. Right to be represented by a lawyer. Anytime your liberty is at risk you have an absolute right to have a lawyer defend you. The right…
Although trials don’t always proceed as expected, and the lawyer must often think on his or her feet, there are many steps that a lawyer can take to become prepared for trial in order to give his or her client the best chance to prevail. Preparedness breeds confidence. Confidence increases…