December 15 is a crucial day for the state of Michigan because on that day, the process for medical marijuana licensure will begin. The licenses that will be granted are going to change the face of economics in the state of Michigan but with the new prospect for economic growth…
Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
When is Self-Defense a Good Defense Strategy in An Assault Case?
It isn’t uncommon for someone to be accused of assault, which in Michigan is defined as an attempt to inflict physical harm upon another individual whether actually using an object such as a baseball bat, lamp, or even a hand to strike that person, or intentionally threatening an unlawful act…
Why Do Innocent People Accused of Crimes Accept Plea Bargains?
Michigan criminal defense attorneys know all too well that many defendants, regardless of their innocence or guilt, accept plea bargains (plea deal, agreement) offered by prosecutors. Why would anyone who is innocent ever agree to such a deal? Why not plead not guilty and go forward to trial? This is…
Supreme Court Decision Sends Shockwaves to Michigan Criminal Law
In a decision that has shocked many in the legal community across the country, The United States Supreme Court made a controversial ruling on June 26th stating that evidence found by police officers after illegal stops may be used in court if the officers conducted their searches after learning that…
4th of July 2017 Safety Tips for Michigan Residents
The 4th of July, or Independence Day, is when many celebrate our country’s freedom by enjoying fireworks displays, shooting off our own fireworks, enjoying an outdoor barbecue with friends, camping, and other activities. Considering the holiday falls on Tuesday this year, some have chosen to take Monday as a vacation…
The Walker Hearing: Where the Constitution and Common Sense Collide
One concept that is often overlooked by lawyers in the criminal field is the importance of a “Walker Hearing”. Brought to us in the case of People v. Walker (1), a “Walker Hearing” is used when interpreting whether or not a confession was done in a voluntary fashion. In the…
The Michigan Tolling Statute for Criminal Sexual Activity: DNA changes the Game
One common misconception in the field of criminal law is the understanding of the statute of limitations (SOL). While many have a general idea of what the SOL is, a clear understanding of what the “clock” for a crime can be the greatest mishap that a retained lawyer can make…
False Rape Accusations: Does the Stain Ever go Away?
My client looked at me with a tear in his eyes when we won his rape case at a preliminary hearing. “Henry” was going to be a free man and we hugged each other as he was eternally grateful but the reality is that his life of freedom would still…
Michigan Criminal Law Firm Announces Addition of Several Attorneys to Staff
Over the past several months Grabel & Associates has added several attorneys to our criminal defense legal team. We are proud to have expanded our team, bringing outstanding lawyers with expertise in specific areas of criminal law on board and essentially offering even more legal support, guidance, and representation to…
Attorneys Who Learn a Second Language Have an Edge in Today’s Legal Arena
Everyone knows that the face of America is changing rapidly in terms of race and ethnicity. In fact, according to the Pew Research Center almost 59 million immigrants have come to the U.S. over the past 50 years, the majority of those immigrants from Asia and Latin America. As an…