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Michigan Court of Appeals Rules Use of Medical Marijuana is Allowed While on Probation

In a case originating in Grand Traverse County, the Michigan Court of Appeals has ruled those who possess a valid medical card under the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act (“MMMA”), MCL 333.26421, cannot be prohibited by the Court from continuing to use medical marijuana while they are on probation or as a condition of their probation. Typically, when placed on probation,…

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Kent County Awaits Resumption of Jury Trials

The pandemic has put restrictions on and caused back ups in many parts of society, including the court system. Kent county is no stranger to these delays. Delays across the court system continue, as face to face restrictions continue but hope is nearing. Kent county jury trials and other in person activities may be able to see some hope as…

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Michigan Clean Slate Legislation Passed 2020

Michiganders with a criminal past often face many obstacles including difficulty getting a good job, securing good housing or even continuing their education.  Now, thanks to the Clean Slate legislation, things are going to get better for a lot of people. Under the Clean Slate, which was signed into law on October 11, 2020, a person convicted of certain crimes…

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What happens if I get Charged with a Drug Crime?

Do the Courts take Marijuana Seriously now that it is basically legal? The State of Michigan has legalized the use of medical marijuana, however a person must obtain a medical marijuana card to legally possess and use marijuana. If a person is caught with marijuana but is not legally allowed to possess the drug there are significant consequences. First of…

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Getting Off on the Right foot in a Family Law Case

Frequently our family law attorneys have encountered clients who have initially tried to represent themselves in custody and family law cases. When they come to us after having given it their best shot, they are typically behind the eight ball. While often times people will say “you don’t need an attorney, you can do it on your own?” this advice…

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Living Life as Covid Restrictions Ease

As Covid lockdown restrictions from the Governor begin to ease, we expect to see people taking advantage of their newly granted freedoms.  One of the most significant is the opening of bars and restaurants. As you start to live life closer to normal, remember to keep your drinking in moderation whenever you plan do drive.  If you may have had…

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HEROIN PREVALENT IN WEST MICHIGAN

Sadly, West Michigan is no different than many other areas of the country when it comes to heroin use. It is all too common and over recent months and years West Michigan, like the rest of the country, has seen a sharp increase in the numbers of deaths from overdose. Part of the reason heroin has had a resurgence among…

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Pandemic Crime

The pandemic has impacted every aspect of life including crime.  Certain types of crime are actually on the rise as a result of the pandemic.  Due to the fact that people have been forced to remain in their homes and around the people they live with for extended periods of time, domestic violence arrests have increased.  In addition, due to…

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What is bond / bail / pre-trial release?

PRE-TRIAL RELEASE IN MICHIGAN The criminal justice system can be typically harsh on those who are financially disadvantaged. When a person is arrested for a criminal offense in Michigan a bond is likely set. Most criminal offenses in Michigan require a bond be set so that a defendant can be afforded the opportunity to be released from jail pending trial.Unfortunately,…

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