Michigan Criminal Defense Attorneys

Criminal defense focused on the evidence, the courtroom, and the decisions that matter to you.

A criminal charge can put your freedom, family, and livelihood at risk. Czarnecki & Taylor PLLC helps clients understand the allegations, assess the evidence, and make informed decisions at each stage of a Michigan criminal case.

From our Mount Clemens office, we represent clients in Macomb, Oakland, Wayne, and surrounding Michigan counties. Whether you are under investigation or preparing for a court appearance, we can discuss the next steps.

Discuss your defense ↗ or call (586) 718-2345.

A Defense Built Around the Evidence

An accusation does not tell the whole story. We begin by learning what happened, reviewing the prosecution's evidence, and identifying the questions that need answers. That includes understanding your account, the court's schedule, and the consequences you are concerned about.

Police reports are one part of the review. Depending on the case, the work may involve witness accounts, recordings, digital records, physical evidence, and expert analysis. We consider both the evidence supporting the charge and information that may undermine it.

Representation at Each Stage

Investigations and early hearingsAdvice during an investigation, review of charging documents, and preparation for arraignment and bond questions. Early work can also help identify records or other evidence that need to be preserved.
Pretrial motions and evidenceWe review discovery and assess whether motions concerning statements, searches, identification, or other evidence are supported. The appropriate motion depends on the facts and the governing law.
Negotiation and trialWe assess proposed resolutions in light of the evidence and your objectives. When a case proceeds to trial, preparation addresses witnesses, exhibits, evidentiary objections, and the defense's presentation.
Sentencing advocacyWe review relevant sentencing materials, address disputed information or guidelines issues when applicable, and develop mitigation. We discuss the requested sentence and alternatives that may be available in the individual case.

Making an Informed Plea or Trial Decision

Evaluating a plea offer requires more than comparing the names of the charges. We discuss the proposal's terms, the evidence, available defenses, sentencing exposure, and other consequences relevant to your circumstances. Those conversations include difficult facts as well as favorable ones.

The decision whether to plead guilty belongs to the client, with advice from counsel. Our role is to explain the choices clearly and prepare to litigate supported issues when that is the appropriate course.

What You Can Expect

A clear explanation of the caseDiscussion of the allegations, the evidence available, the issues that need investigation, and the choices ahead.
Preparation for courtGuidance about the purpose of an upcoming hearing and the information or documents needed to prepare for it.
Attention to the wider impactConsideration of concerns such as employment, professional licensing, driving privileges, and family responsibilities when evaluating options.
Candid advice about strategyAn assessment of strengths, weaknesses, and uncertainty so you can make decisions with a realistic understanding of the case.

Trial Work Informed by Appellate Experience

Decisions in the trial court can affect what may be reviewed later. Our criminal defense work draws on experience with trials, evidentiary hearings, Michigan criminal appeals, and MCR 6.500 post-conviction proceedings. We consider the immediate issue and the record needed to preserve it.

Learn more about our attorneys and review selected case results. Every case depends on its own facts and law. Past results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome.

Questions Before Hiring a Defense Attorney

Can I speak with an attorney before charges are filed?

Yes. Our firm handles consultation during a criminal investigation. An early conversation can address the nature of the investigation, communications with law enforcement, and evidence that may need to be preserved.

Does hiring a defense attorney mean the case will go to trial?

No. A case may involve motions, negotiations, trial, or a combination of those steps. The appropriate approach depends on the evidence, available defenses, the prosecution's position, and your decisions after receiving legal advice.

What should I have ready for the first conversation?

Have the charging documents or citation, court and case number, next hearing date, and any bond conditions available. Tell us whether another attorney is involved and describe any records, recordings, or witnesses you believe are important.

Talk with a Michigan Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are under investigation or facing a criminal charge, contact Czarnecki & Taylor PLLC to discuss representation. Let us know about any scheduled court appearance so we can address the timing of your inquiry.