Skip To Content
AVVO Reviews Best Law Firms - Standard Badge

Felony & Misdemeanor

Trusted Criminal Defense Attorneys in Ann Arbor with Decades of Experience

Facing criminal charges—whether a misdemeanor or felony—can feel overwhelming, confusing, and deeply stressful. If you or a loved one has been arrested, investigated, or charged with a crime in Washtenaw County or anywhere in Southeast Michigan, it’s critical to have a seasoned legal advocate on your side. Our criminal defense attorneys in Ann Arbor have more than 25 years of experience fighting for people just like you.

Felony Charges in Michigan

In Michigan, a felony is generally defined as a crime for which the potential punishment may be greater than one year in county jail.

If you’re charged with a felony, your case will begin with an arraignment held either in jail or via a "self-surrender." An arraignment is followed by a preliminary examination, an extremely important stage of the proceedings. Geherin Law Group's criminal defense attorneys have handled thousands of preliminary examinations for virtually every felony charge imaginable and are prepared to review your case to see if your case might be dismissed at this early stage. We have relationships with private investigators to investigate your case, and a staff dedicated to helping you through this stressful time. From homicide to weapons offenses, from narcotics offenses to OWI / Third Offense, if you are charged with a felony, please contact us for a consultation.

Common Felony Offenses We Defend

Felonies can range from non-violent financial crimes to violent offenses that may carry life sentences. Some of the most common felony charges we handle include:

  • Drug Trafficking and Manufacture: These charges often carry mandatory minimum sentences and require an experienced legal strategy to challenge evidence, including searches and surveillance.
  • Felonious Assault and Battery: Involving weapons or serious bodily harm, these charges are aggressively prosecuted and can follow a defendant for life.
  • Homicide and Manslaughter: These are among the most serious charges in the Michigan criminal justice system, demanding expert case review and courtroom skill.
  • Sex Crimes: These charges carry not only lengthy prison time but also mandatory registration on the Michigan Sex Offender Registry.
  • Home Invasion and Burglary: Depending on the circumstances, these charges can lead to decades in prison, especially when weapons or assaults are involved.
  • OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), Third Offense or Higher: Repeated OWI convictions are charged as felonies and require an aggressive defense strategy.

A felony conviction can have a devastating and permanent impact on your life—including the loss of your freedom, civil rights, job opportunities, and personal relationships. Our mission is to prevent or mitigate these consequences wherever possible. That’s why we tailor our defense approach to the specific facts of your case and your long-term goals.

Misdemeanor Charges in Michigan

In contrast, a misdemeanor is generally defined as a crime for which the maximum punishment is one year in county jail. Put simply, misdemeanor offenses generally do not carry the threat of prison, they should never be taken lighty. 

Misdemeanors range from low-level misdemeanors (trespass, retail fraud) to crimes of violence (domestic violence, aggravated assault). Typically, you will either be arrested for a misdemeanor or sent a notice to appear in district court. 

In misdemeanor offenses, there is no preliminary examination, so the prosecution can proceed on the basis of the police report. This can be extraordinarily frustrating, especially if you believe the report is false or misleading. In these situations, your criminal defense attorney in Ann Arbor may be the only person standing between you and a criminal conviction. That’s why it’s so important to work with a firm that is deeply experienced in Michigan’s criminal courts. Geherin Law Group handles virtually all types of misdemeanor charges throughout Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County, and surrounding communities.

If you’ve received a notice to appear, or have been arrested or investigated for a misdemeanor, we are ready to help.

Common Misdemeanor Charges We Defend

Misdemeanor offenses might not seem serious at first, but they can carry lasting penalties, including jail time, probation, and a criminal record. Common misdemeanor charges include:

  • OWI First or Second Offense
  • Retail Fraud (Shoplifting)
  • Simple Assault
  • Domestic Violence
  • Malicious Destruction of Property
  • Disorderly Conduct
  • Driving While License Suspended (DWLS)
  • Trespassing

Even a single misdemeanor conviction can affect your record, your job prospects, and your future.  We thoroughly investigate every case and fight for a resolution that protects your future. In many cases, a misdemeanor can be resolved through diversion programs, dismissal options, or plea negotiations that avoid jail time and protect your record.

Serious Consequences of Felony and Misdemeanor Convictions

Felony and misdemeanor charges in Michigan carry serious legal and personal consequences. Even a seemingly “minor” charge can lead to:

  • Jail or prison time
  • Probation or parole
  • Heavy fines and court costs
  • Loss of driver’s license
  • Immigration consequences
  • Loss of professional licenses
  • Ineligibility for student loans, housing, or jobs
  • A permanent criminal record

For those facing felony or misdemeanor charges in Ann Arbor, having an experienced, dedicated criminal defense attorney is not just important—it’s essential. At Geherin Law Group, criminal law is not a “side practice” or one of many practice areas. It’s our primary focus. We have defended thousands of clients in Michigan and take great pride in our trial skills, investigative diligence, and personal commitment to every client.

Expungement of Criminal Records

If you would like to “erase” or expunge a criminal conviction from your record, we can help. Generally, you must wait a period of time to attempt an expungement, and you must prove that your record has remained virtually spotless. Unfortunately, some offenses (OWI, traffic offenses, capital offenses, etc.) are generally not eligible for expungement. The laws and procedures for expungements change frequently, so please contact GLG for a consultation as to your eligibility.

Who Qualifies for Expungement in Michigan?

Michigan recently expanded eligibility for expungement under the “Clean Slate” laws, allowing more people a second chance. You may qualify if:

  • It’s been at least 3–7 years since your conviction, depending on the type of offense.
  • You haven’t committed any new crimes.
  • Your offense is not on the list of excluded crimes (e.g., most sex crimes, some traffic offenses).

We can guide you through the petition process, represent you at your expungement hearing, and help you clean up your record so you can move forward with your life.

Here’s What Our Clients Are Saying 

“Best man for the job

I needed to hire an attorney to get a driver's license back after a very long period of time. I hired Mr. Geherin and explained my dilemma. He and his team were extremely helpful and got right to the point of what needed to be done. If you need a lawyer that will be instrumental in getting your driver's license back.... look no further than the professional team at Geherin law offices.”

William, Avvo Review

Beyond grateful for Dan!

After a lot of research and consulting other lawyers I hired Dan, he is amazing at what he does and I loved that he was very blunt and honest about possible outcomes and the steps that would need to be taken to have a successful outcome. He made the reinstatement process for my license so simple and easy. He helps to guide you the entire time. His office is amazing! Because of Dan and his team I was able to successfully reinstate my license from out of state. I will forever refer anyone that needs help to Dan and his team! Thank you for being a trustworthy and honest person and attorney! Thank you again Dan!!!”

Savannah, Avvo Review

“The day after my arrest I began frantically searching for a lawyer. I called Dan right away and within a few hours we had a consultation over the phone which was free of charge. He explained to me what exactly these charges meant and exactly what I had to do to help my situation. Needless to say I hired him immediately. I had just turned 21 only 4 months prior to my arrest and was attending beauty school at the time and Dan was kind enough to give me a student discount. I followed his instructions and in return Dan worked hard to get the best deal possible for me. My charges were dropped down to impaired driving! It was a difficult process to go through and a lesson I chose to learn the hard way. But if you ever find yourself in a similar situation don’t hesitate to call Dan. I honestly can’t thank him enough.”

Anonymous, Avvo Review

We believe everyone deserves a defense rooted in dignity, fairness, and aggressive legal strategy. Whether you're a first-time offender or facing multiple charges, our team approaches each case with the same unwavering commitment to justice. We don’t judge—we fight, and we do so with the experience, resources, and dedication that have earned us the trust of clients across Michigan.

Michigan Criminal Appeals

Wrongfully convicted? Believe evidence was used against you improperly? Feel as though your trial attorney did not properly use evidence of your innocence? If so, we will listen to your case and either take on your appeal or refer you to competent counsel. Either way, if you feel an appeal is in your best interest, please call our office for a consultation.

Appeals Are Your Second Chance

Our firm can assist with appeals related to:

  • Errors in jury instructions or court procedures
  • Ineffective assistance of trial counsel
  • Introduction of improperly obtained evidence
  • Sentencing errors

Appellate law is complex and time-sensitive. If you’re considering an appeal, contact our firm immediately to preserve your rights and deadlines.

The Geherin Law Group Difference

We believe everyone deserves a defense rooted in dignity, fairness, and aggressive legal strategy. Whether you're a first-time offender or facing multiple charges, our team approaches each case with the same unwavering commitment to justice. We don’t judge—we fight, and we do so with the experience, resources, and dedication that have earned us the trust of clients across Michigan.

Speak With a Criminal Defense Attorney in Ann Arbor Today

If you’ve been charged with a felony or misdemeanor in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, Saline, Dexter, Chelsea, or anywhere in Washtenaw County, don’t wait to secure legal help. If you’re hoping to clean up your criminal record—we’re here to help you take back control of your future. Please contact us to arrange a free consultation and case evaluation.

📞 Call Geherin Law Group now at (734) 263-2780
📍 Or visit us in Ann Arbor
💬 Free, confidential consultations available