Michigan Criminal Attorneys Blog
The great outdoors is suddenly not so great when DNR writes you a ticket. The freedom you felt enjoying nature is now crushed and your day, season, and future hunting seasons are maybe ruined. Many people do not know that some hunting violations (if convicted as charged) require a mandatory jail sentence. Unfortunately, in the eyes of the State of Michigan the wildlife is its property and it determines the rules as to how you can lawfully possess it. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse – that is why they give out the Michigan Hunting and Trapping Digest at the start of every season. Because the state of Michigan are stewards of our natural resources, the DNR is charged with the enforcement of any violations of conservation laws and they take that responsibility seriously!
It is always a good idea to understand the process of how a DNR officer may perform his or her duties. This is even important for the sportsman or sportswoman who tries to do everything by the book. Why? It is possible for someone to unintentionally violate the law. The conservation laws change from time to time. Perhaps you were not aware of a change as it related to baiting? Maybe the fish possession or size limit changed from one season to the next? In some instances you might be accused of doing something unlawfully even through it isn’t true.
The following is my list of the top 10 Michigan DNR Investigation Strategies for Wildlife Violations: