Michigan criminal defense attorney Chris Kessel struck another blow for justice today in Wayne County Circuit Court by convincing the court to dismiss the charge of Assault by Strangulation/Suffocation.  The offense itself is a newly defined crime in the State of Michigan.  The law actually went into effect April 1, 2013.  It was alleged that the client put his hands around the neck of the complainant …

Many people worry about their future after divorce. This is especially true for individuals that depend on their spouse for support. These individuals often wonder if they will be eligible for alimony or spousal support. For the party responsible for paying spousal support, they might wonder whether or not they will have enough money leftover to support themselves. It’s important …

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a term used to describe impaired or drunken driving. In Michigan, DUIs are known as OWIs or Operating While Intoxicated. Drivers face serious consequences if convicted of a DUI/OWI. Understanding the Difference Between Intoxicated and Impaired Driving Penalties for OWIs are determined based on blood alcohol content (BAC), which is typically measured by breath …

The United States has a growing need for families to foster and adopt children. In Michigan alone, there are an astounding 13,000 children in the foster care system. Many of these children will never get the opportunity to live with a family. Sadly, there just aren’t enough people willing or able to foster or adopt. Michigan’s Child Welfare Services Are …

A Personal Protection Order (PPO) is meant to protect the Petitioner from threats or violence. While having a PPO against you does not give you a criminal record, it can severely affect your freedom. A PPO can prevent you from visiting certain locations or communicating with certain people. Violating a PPO can lead to serious criminal charges and arrest. A …

Grand theft auto is when a vehicle is taken without permission with the intent to permanently deprive the owner from accessing it. Grand Theft Auto In most states, crimes involving theft are split into two categories: petty theft and grand theft. Petty thefts are generally misdemeanors, punishable by up to one year in jail. Grand thefts are felonies, punishable by …

When parents separate, they often wonder how they will provide adequate emotional and financial support for their child. It’s important that both parents are actively involved in this process. What Is Child Support? Child support is a court-ordered payment to help with the costs of raising a child. Child support can include payments for a variety of expenses such as …

Laws are constantly changing. It can be difficult for lawyers to keep up. However, it’s extremely important for attorneys to fully understand the law including any changes, as they can impact cases and the advice that lawyers are able to provide. Since July 1st, Michigan Governor Rick Snyder has signed approximately 25 new laws. Michigan lawyers should know and understand …

A new bill passed the House Judiciary Committee last month requiring divorced couples in Michigan to share joint custody of their children. The bill removes discretion from judges in child custody cases. Opponents of the Bill Opponents of the bill include judges, advocates against domestic violence, family court employees and the entire family law section of the State Bar of …

A lawyer isn’t someone whose name you pick from a simple Google search result and ask, “Where do I sign?” No. Just as you would plan and research any major investment, so too should you carefully vet any Michigan lawyer for hire to serve your case. When faced with family litigation or criminal charges, consider the following steps to hiring …