Comprehensive legal defense for serious criminal charges across Allegan, Kent & Ottawa Counties, and West Michigan.
Criminal Defense At a Glance
Facing criminal charges can turn your life upside down in an instant. An arrest or investigation often brings fear, confusion, and uncertainty about what comes next. Many people worry about jail, their job, their family, and the permanent impact a conviction could have on their future.
Criminal charges are serious because the consequences can reach far beyond the courtroom. Penalties may include incarceration, probation, fines, loss of professional licenses, and a lasting criminal record. Even misdemeanor cases can affect employment, housing, and reputation long after the case is over.
Early criminal defense matters because the system moves quickly. Evidence is gathered, statements are recorded, and critical decisions are made early in the process. Having experienced legal representation from the start helps protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s case, and give you clarity and direction during one of the most stressful moments of your life.
Understanding Criminal Charges in Michigan
Criminal charges in Michigan can arise from many situations, including traffic stops, investigations, or allegations made by others. Charges range from misdemeanors to serious felonies, and many people are surprised by how quickly a situation escalates once law enforcement becomes involved. Understanding what you are being accused of is the first step in protecting yourself.
Michigan criminal cases are taken seriously by prosecutors and courts, and the penalties can be severe. Convictions may lead to jail or prison time, probation, fines, driver’s license consequences, and a permanent criminal record. The impact often extends beyond legal penalties, affecting employment, housing, and personal relationships.
Early legal guidance is critical because Michigan criminal cases depend heavily on procedures, evidence, and timing. Police actions, searches, statements, and charging decisions must follow strict rules. An experienced defense attorney can help you understand your options, protect your rights, and guide you through the process with clarity during an overwhelming and uncertain time.
For in-depth information, review the specific offense pages below to understand how Michigan law applies to your situation and what legal defense options may be available.
Courts and Jurisdictions We Serve:
We proudly serve the counties of Allegan, Kent, and Ottawa, with a special focus on the cities of Allegan, Holland, Grand Haven, Grand Rapids, Wyoming, Grandville and all points in between.
Comprehensive Michigan Criminal Defense For:
Assault & Battery
Defense for charges involving physical contact allegations, intent, and serious legal consequences.
Child Abuse
Defense for serious allegations involving family investigations, evidence review, and life-altering consequences.
CPS Defense
Representation in child protective investigations involving custody, parental rights, and government intervention.
Domestic Violence
Defense for serious allegations involving family disputes, protective orders, and lasting personal consequences.
Federal Criminal Charges
Defense for high-stakes cases involving federal investigations, prosecutors, and severe penalties.
Gun & Firearm Charges
Defense for weapons offenses involving possession, transport, and constitutional rights.
Home Invasion
Defense for serious felony charges involving unlawful entry, intent, and severe sentencing exposure.
Internet Crimes
Defense for charges involving online activity, digital evidence, and complex technology-based investigations.
Juvenile Crimes
Defense focused on protecting minors’ futures, records, and rehabilitation opportunities.
Perjury
Defense for allegations involving false statements, credibility disputes, and serious consequences under oath.
Stalking
Defense for allegations involving repeated contact claims, intent, and serious personal and legal consequences.
Theft Crimes
Defense for charges involving alleged taking of property, intent, and financial penalties.
Traffic Crimes
Defense for criminal traffic charges involving license consequences, fines, and potential jail time.
Violent Crimes
Defense for serious felony charges involving force allegations, severe penalties, and long-term consequences.
White Collar Crimes
Defense for financial and business-related charges involving fraud allegations, investigations, and severe professional consequences.
Casino & Gambling Crimes
Defense for charges involving gaming violations, fraud allegations, and regulatory enforcement actions.
Animal Cruelty
Defense for serious allegations involving harm to animals, investigations, and significant legal consequences.
Why Clients Choose Our Firm
When you are facing criminal charges, fear and uncertainty can take over fast. You may be worried about jail, your job, your driver’s license, or how this will affect your family and future. Shawn understands that this is often one of the most stressful moments of a person’s life. He takes the time to listen, explain what is happening, and give you clear answers—so you are not left guessing or feeling powerless.
Clients choose Shawn because he combines steady guidance with aggressive defense. He knows how overwhelming the system can feel, and he works to take that weight off your shoulders by protecting your rights and building a strategy early. From the first conversation forward, his focus is on minimizing damage, preserving your freedom, and helping you regain control of your life. You are treated with respect, not judgment, and defended as if your future matters—because it does.