Criminal Defense

Troy Criminal Defense Attorneys

A Strong Defense Against Criminal Charges in Bloomfield Hills, Oakland County & Macomb County

When you are accused of a crime, it can be easy to forget you have inalienable rights that protect you from unjust prosecution. However, these rights only matter if you are aware of them and choose to assert them. No matter the crime alleged, it is important to protect yourself after being charged or arrested to protect yourself against a conviction that can come back to haunt you years into the future. A conviction for a felony or even a misdemeanor can make it harder to get hired, find housing, obtain loans and accomplish other goals that are central to your personal and professional life.

At Balian Legal, we believe everyone is innocent until proven guilty. Our lawyers have spent decades fighting for the rights of our clients throughout Michigan, both in and out of the courtroom. We understand the laws involved in numerous crimes and know what legal procedures can make for a successful defense strategy. Our team can assess the facts of your case and determine how we can help you resolve your case and move on with your life.

If you have been accused of a crime, schedule a free consultation with our Troy criminal defense attorneys by calling (248) 846-1488 or contacting us online.

Our attorneys can represent you in cases involving:

Driving under the influence (DUI), also known as OUI in Michigan, including aggravated charges, underage charges, boating under the influence (BUI), and more
Drug crimes, including possession, manufacturing, and trafficking
Violent crimes, including domestic violence and assault
Sexual offenses, such as prostitution and solicitation, child pornography, rape, and sexual assault
Theft, like burglary and shoplifting
Traffic offenses and speeding tickets
White collar crimes
Juvenile crimes
Cyber crimes

Know Your Rights After an Arrest

It can be easy to get caught up in the shock and chaos of an unexpected arrest. No matter what happens, it is critical you remember and exercise your constitutional rights guaranteed to you in the United States.

Under the Constitution, rights of the accused and arrested include:

The right against unreasonable searches and seizures. Never consent to any search of any kind, even if you are confident you are innocent. In some situations, law enforcement will erroneously argue they have the right to search. Always remain polite and avoid any physical resistance but continue to assert that you do not consent to any searches and would like to speak to a lawyer.
The right to counsel. When you have been charged with a crime, you are guaranteed legal representation. Law enforcement cannot lawfully deny you access to an attorney. If they attempt to do so, continue to demand your constitutional right to speak to your lawyer.
The right to know whether you can leave. If you are summoned by law enforcement for questioning, you have a right to know if you are being arrested or detained. Avoid making any statements to law enforcement without the presence of an attorney. Should you find yourself in a situation where you are being questioned by officers, repeatedly ask if you are under arrest and if you are free to leave.
The right to avoid self-incrimination. You are under no circumstances required to make any statement to law enforcement, even if you are detained or arrested. Always wait until your lawyer is present before answering any questions.
The right to trial by jury and a speedy trial. The United States court system permits you to be judged by a jury of your peers without unnecessary delays.
The right to confront witnesses against you. If some other individual is making claims that contributed to an accusation, you (and your legal representation) have the right to question them in court.

These rights are vital to the fairness of the United States justice system. If one or more of your rights has been violated, there is a good chance it could impact the outcome of your case. We may be able to dismiss charges or suppress any evidence that was obtained illegally.

Turning Challenges Into Triumphs

See What Sets Us Apart

Attentive Advocacy

We are committed to providing professional representation with attention to detail to each client’s case.
CLear Communication

We work to build lasting relationships by maintaining open communication and keeping you informed throughout the process.
Comprehensive Services

We handle a variety of cases, from business law to criminal defense and commercial litigation, providing tailored strategies to meet your specific needs.
Detailed Strategy

Our approach emphasizes thorough preparation and strategic planning to help you navigate your legal matter effectively.

Criminal Defense Cases We Handle

Our firm has vigorously defended the arrested and accused since 1987. We are familiar with many areas of both state and federal law and can apply tested strategies to help you achieve the best possible resolution in your unique legal matter.

Our attorneys can represent you in cases involving:

Driving under the influence (DUI), also known as OUI in Michigan, including aggravated charges, underage charges, boating under the influence (BUI), and more
Drug crimes, including possession, manufacturing, and trafficking
Violent crimes, including domestic violence and assault
Sexual offenses, such as prostitution and solicitation, child pornography, rape, and sexual assault
Theft, like burglary and shoplifting
Traffic offenses and speeding tickets
White collar crimes
Juvenile crimes
Cyber crimes

How the Prosecution Works

Every case is unique, and criminal prosecution can work a little differently than some other forms of court cases. Still, most cases follow a similar series of steps.

A criminal case in Michigan typically moves through the following phases:

Investigation. Law enforcement officers will collect evidence and attempt to speak to individuals involved with the case. Do not speak to any officers who approach you without your lawyer present. If you do not already have an attorney and are repeatedly sought for questioning in a criminal matter, it may be time to retain one.
Arrest. When law enforcement believes they have sufficient evidence, they may arrest you allegedly in commission of a crime or pursuant to an issued warrant. Again, resist the urge to defend yourself, and avoid making any statements until your lawyer is present.
Arraignment. This initial hearing involves a judge explaining what you have been charged with. If you are in custody, bail will likely be discussed.
Discovery. Both the state and the defendant’s legal representation will conduct thorough additional investigations into the facts of the case, including conducting interviews with any relevant witnesses. This is the stage in which we will build your case and prepare your defense.
Negotiation. In an effort to avoid a costly trial, the state may offer a plea bargain. Based on the outlook of the case, we can advise whether taking a plea bargain makes sense and, if so, negotiate the best possible deal. Otherwise, the case proceeds to court.
Trial. Your case will be argued before a judge and jury of your peers. Both sides will present evidence and question witnesses in open court. If you are found guilty, you will be sentenced; if you are acquitted, the case will conclude, and you will be free to go.

Create New Opportunities by Expunging Prior Convictions

If a past criminal conviction continues to cause you trouble today, there’s good news: It is possible to remove convictions from your criminal record after sufficient time has passed through a process called expungement. By taking advantage of this legal option, you can prevent your past mistakes from restricting your ability to live a productive, prosperous life today.

The advantages of expunging your record include:

The record is not publicly available
You do not have to disclose an expunged offense in job applications
You do not have to disclose an expunged offense when applying for housing

To determine whether your conviction is eligible for expungement, contact us to schedule an in-person or virtual consultation.

Get the Strong Defense You Deserve

A criminal accusation can quickly upend your life. Not only will you potentially be held in custody, you will have to participate in what can be a lengthy and arduous trial process. You will likely need the legal support of a qualified attorney to advocate on your behalf and help minimize the adverse impacts of the process, including doing whatever it takes to avoid a conviction. Our lawyers at Balian Legal are empathetic to the difficulty a criminal accusation can pose for you and your family and are prepared to help you through this turbulent time. We have decades of experience fighting for our clients and can give your case the attention it deserves.

Do not wait to speak with our criminal defense attorneys in Troy. Call (248) 846-1488 or contact us online today.

View MOre Reviews

“Skilled & Compassionate”
“A skilled, compassionate, professional lawyer who works hard to ensure the best outcome for his clients. I can't recommend him highly enough.”

Former Client
“Looking Out For Your Interests”
“He is extremely professional, knowledgeable & has always been very honest & forthcoming. He is also personable & looks out for your best interest while delivering favorable results.”

Former Client
“I Owe Him My Life”
“His level of personal care and his extensive knowledge of the legal and court system is second to none. I literally owe him my life.”

Former Client
“He Gave Me Peace of Mind”
“Mike was always there when I needed him with a keen knowledge of the the law and players within the legal system.”

Former Client
“He Has My Confidence”
“Mike is a very sharp, very thorough, very knowledgeable and very trustworthy attorney and person. He has my total confidence in anything I could ever need him for.”

Former Client
“I Am Eternally Grateful”
“His ethics are of the highest standards. He is personable, courteous, knowledgeable, and honest. He is quick to respond, and gives you all possible outcomes upfront.”

Former Client

Smart Strategies for Complex Cases

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