Kalamazoo Criminal Defense Attorneys With Over 250 Years Of Combined Experience
Facing criminal charges is frightening. An arrest can threaten your job, your freedom and your family’s stability. Whether you face charges for a traffic offense, theft, assault or drug crimes, the consequences can follow you for years.
At Lewis Reed & Allen our criminal defense attorneys have served Kalamazoo and Southwest Michigan since 2003. We bring over 250 years of combined experience to every case. We work hard to minimize charges, reduce penalties and keep you out of jail when possible.
Types Of Criminal Defense Cases We Handle
Our attorneys at Lewis Reed & Allen defend clients against a wide range of criminal charges in Michigan courts. Our firm handles:
- DUI and OWI offenses: We provide skilled DUI defense to protect your driving privileges and help with license restoration after suspension or revocation.
- Drug crimes: We defend clients facing drug charges from possession to distribution.
- Theft offenses: We represent clients accused of shoplifting, larceny, burglary, retail fraud and embezzlement.
- Violent crimes: Our team defends against assault, battery and domestic violence charges.
- Traffic violations: We handle reckless driving, driving on a suspended license and other moving violations.
- White collar crimes: We defend clients facing fraud, forgery and other financial crimes.
- Probation violations: We help clients who face violations of probation terms.
- Juvenile offenses: We protect young people’s futures by defending against juvenile charges.
Our criminal defense lawyers handle both felony charges and misdemeanor defense cases with the same level of care.
How We Protect Your Rights And Future
Criminal charges can impact every part of your life. A conviction can cost you your job, hurt your finances and strain family relationships. Our criminal defense team protects your constitutional rights from the moment you contact us. We challenge weak evidence, negotiate with prosecutors and fight for reduced charges when possible.
We know the local courts in Kalamazoo and throughout Southwest Michigan. This knowledge helps us build strong criminal defense strategies for each client. We explain the legal process in plain terms and keep you informed at every step. Whether you need help preventing jail time, reducing fines or restoring your driver’s license, we stand with you.
Why Do I Need A Lawyer If I’m Innocent? Won’t That Make Me Look Guilty?
Law enforcement may suggest that innocent people don’t need lawyers. This is not true. You have constitutional rights that protect you from self-incrimination. A criminal defense attorney ensures police and prosecutors respect those rights. Exercising your right to legal representation does not make you look guilty. Even innocent people can say things that hurt their case without meaning to. We protect you from these risks.
What Is The Difference Between A Felony And A Misdemeanor In Michigan?
Misdemeanors typically involve less serious offenses with penalties up to one year in jail. Felonies are more serious crimes that can result in prison time of over one year. Factors like weapon use, value of stolen property or prior convictions can elevate a misdemeanor to a felony. Felony convictions carry long-term consequences beyond jail time, including loss of voting rights, firearm possession and barriers to employment and housing.
How Long Will This Conviction Stay On My Record?
The answer depends on what you were convicted of and your case specifics. Some convictions remain on your record permanently, while others may qualify for expungement under the Michigan Clean Slate Act. Recent changes to Michigan law have expanded eligibility for clearing certain criminal records. Call our office to discuss your situation. Our criminal defense attorneys can review your record and advise you on your options.
Work With Seasoned Defense Attorneys
If you face criminal charges in Kalamazoo or Southwest Michigan, contact our team at 269-388-7600 for a free consultation. We provide strong criminal defense representation when you need it most.