Criminal Defense

Defense Lawyers Manley & Manley know how to win big cases

Michigan criminal defense lawyers Manley & Manley handle a range of cases in state and federal courts, from theft, fraud and embezzlement to robbery, murder and other extremely serious charges. Without question, an arrest can be a frightening experience. A conviction can have a lifelong impact. That's why you need attorneys with 25 years' experience if you are facing possible jail time, probation or thousands of dollars in fines.

Located in Flint and serving people throughout Michigan, our attorneys have a proven track record of success. We’re the attorneys people routinely rely on when they are facing serious criminal charges.

What's the secret to our success? We know the law inside-out and understand how the legal system works in Michigan. Most of all, we take the time to learn about a client's case and works tirelessly from start to finish.

Legal issues involving criminal charges in Michigan

There are many different legal issues you need to consider if you have been charged with a crime in Michigan. Below, we explain some of the issues that might affect your case, including some of the common types of criminal cases our firm handles:

You might feel overwhelmed. You may have been told your case is "hopeless." You might even feel like you've been convicted by the media. Understand that you have legal options. Talk to one of our attorneys today so we can begin helping you with a strategy designed to get results.

Why should I hire Michigan criminal defense attorney Manley & Manley?

Attorney Michael P. Manley graduated at the top of his class at the University of Detroit School of Law. Since then, he has handled many high-profile criminal defense cases in Michigan that have received national notoriety. His work has been featured on national news programs like “Dateline,” “20/20” and “The Today Show.”

Attorney Frank J. Manley has been named to the Michigan Super Lawyers list among the Nation’s Top One Percent by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel. And he has also been listed among the Top 10 Criminal Defense Lawyers in Michigan, the Top 100 OWI Attorneys in the State of Michigan, and the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers Association.

Both Michael and Frank remain committed to serving people in Flint, where they grew up, and other locations around the state. They consider their work more than just a job. They’re devoted to fighting for justice for the people who need it most.

Discover what Manley & Manley can do for you. Call (810) 238-0500.

Frequently asked questions about criminal defense cases

What are common criminal defense cases?
Should I plead guilty to a criminal charge?
Can I file an appeal if I'm convicted of a criminal charge?
What's the difference between an expungement and a dismissal?
How much does it cost to hire a criminal defense lawyer?
Why should I hire a criminal defense attorney?

What are common criminal defense cases?

Criminal defense cases cover a wide range. Some of the most common ones we handle at our law firm include charges involving assault, domestic violence, theft, murder, serious traffic violations (including vehicular manslaughter).

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Should I plead guilty to a criminal charge?

No. In most cases, it's always better to plead not guilty to a criminal charge. That way, you will have an opportunity to present your case before a judge and possibly get your charges dismissed or your penalty reduced.

If you plead guilty, you will not be able to present your case in court. Instead, you will likely face time in jail and/or be fined thousands of dollars. Before you make such a significant decision, contact an attorney with a comprehensive understanding of the law and experience successfully resolving complicated criminal cases. The consequences of a criminal conviction can be devastating.

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Can I file an appeal if I'm convicted of a criminal charge?

Yes, if you have been found guilty, you have the right to appeal that conviction or the punishment or sentencing. The appeal is your request to a higher (appellate) court to review and change the decision of the lower court. This is a common request by defendants who have been convicted. If you are found not guilty, the prosecutor cannot appeal the decision. In U.S. courts, this is known as "double jeopardy."

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What's the difference between an expungement and a dismissal?

Expungement is a legal term used to describe the complete removal of a criminal charge or conviction from a person's police record. As part of the expungement process, court records and police records are destroyed.

Dismissal refers to having the charges dropped in a criminal case. However, evidence of those charges will still appear on your criminal record. The record will simply state that the charges were dropped.

We help people throughout Michigan clear their name and their criminal record. We proudly provide this service because we strongly believe that someone should have a clean criminal record if the charges were dismissed or dropped.

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How much does it cost to hire a criminal defense lawyer?

No two criminal cases are ever alike. Some can be resolved in a few hours. Others involve weeks or months of research and time spent with clients defending them in a criminal trial. Our attorneys make every effort to keep costs reasonable and we accept credit cards and payment plans. Attorneys Michael P. Manley and Frank J. Manley are natives of Flint and lifelong Michigan resident. They understand the importance of hard work and watching every penny.

Some lawyers might be cheaper than us but you don't want to take chances with your future during a criminal trial. You want an experienced, aggressive attorney who consistently delivers results and will work tirelessly on your case.

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Why should I hire a criminal defense attorney?

When you have a criminal defense lawyer working on your case, you can take a tough stance right from the start. This includes carefully researching your case, from reviewing your arrest report to consulting with experts to determine if police followed the correct procedures during your arrest or gathering of evidence.

A lawyer can serve as your guide and your advocate every step of the way in the legal process. Trying to navigate Michigan's criminal justice system on your own can be overwhelming - and risky. If you make a mistake, you might find yourself behind bars for months or years because that error you made helped the prosecutor's case against you.

Don't take chances with your criminal case. Take action. Contact Manley & Manley. A delay could affect the outcome of your case. The sooner you contact us, the sooner our office can help you get your life back on track.

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