Kalamazoo Violent Crime Defense Lawyer
Crimes of violence demand a skilled, aggressive defense. Much more than just your freedom may be at stake. A conviction could shape the course of your entire life.
I understand what you’re up against. I’m Jim Champion, a violent crime defense attorney serving Kalamazoo and surrounding areas. With over a decade of experience in both state and federal courts, I have a proven track record of defending people like you against serious charges. My achievements include securing not guilty verdicts in violent crime cases up to first-degree murder. I approach every case with a commitment to aggressively counter the government’s aim to deprive individuals of their liberties. When you work with me, you’ll be getting a true champion for your rights.
A Fierce Defense Against Any Violent Crime Accusations
My Kalamazoo criminal defense practice covers all types of violent crime cases at both the Michigan state and federal levels, including:
- Assault and battery
- Aggravated charges, such as felony assault resulting in great bodily harm
- Domestic assault
- Murder (all degrees)
- Strangulation
- Homicide
- Manslaughter
- Robbery
- Carjacking
- Kidnapping
- Gun crimes
- Other crimes involving dangerous weapons
To prove their case, the prosecution must establish the specific elements of the offense in accordance with state or federal law. I know how to cast doubt on their arguments and evidence.
Violent Crime Statistics In Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo faces a violent crime rate that is significantly higher than the national average, with 1,516 incidents per 100,000 people. This rate places Kalamazoo in the bottom 10% of cities nationwide for violent crimes, according to FBI data from 2023.
The high incidence of these crimes doesn’t mean jurors won’t take them seriously. On the contrary, prosecutors are highly motivated to combat those statistics by aggressively pursuing convictions. I can stand between you and their tactics.
Frequently Asked Questions About Violent Crimes
Here are some common questions I encounter.
Can I be convicted of a violent crime in Kalamazoo if I was only trying to defend myself?
Self-defense is a legitimate argument in violent crime cases. However, you have the burden of proving self-defense. You must show that you reasonably believed your actions were necessary to prevent imminent harm to yourself or others, and that your actions were reasonably proportionate to the threat, among other things. I can help you explore this avenue and build a strong, well-supported argument for self-defense.
What are the statutes of limitations for violent crimes in Kalamazoo?
The statute of limitations – that is, the legal deadline for the prosecution to file criminal charges – varies by the severity of the charge. For most state-level misdemeanors, the deadline is six years. For felonies, it’s generally 10 years. Certain serious offenses, like serious sex crimes, have no statute of limitations.
Will I lose my right to own a firearm if I’m convicted of a violent crime in Kalamazoo?
Possibly. A felony conviction generally results in the loss of the right to own or carry a firearm. If you’re found violating this prohibition, you could face additional charges for being a felon in possession of a firearm, which is itself a felony offense.
Additionally, some domestic violence convictions can restrict your gun rights under federal law, even if they are classified as misdemeanors.
Is there a mandatory penalty for possessing a weapon while committing a felony in Kalamazoo?
If you’re caught possessing a firearm while committing a felony, you can face mandatory prison time under the state’s “felony firearm” law. For a first offense of possessing a firearm during the commission of a felony, there is a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison. This sentence cannot be reduced, suspended or negotiated down, and it must be served consecutively to the sentence for the underlying felony.
If you’re caught a second time with a firearm while committing a felony, the penalty increases. The mandatory prison term for a second offense is five years, again served consecutively. For a third or subsequent offense, the compulsory minimum jumps to ten years.
Can domestic violence charges in Kalamazoo be dropped if the victim doesn’t want to press charges?
In Kalamazoo, domestic violence charges cannot simply be dropped if the victim decides they do not want to press charges. Once the police are involved and charges are filed, it’s up to the prosecutor to decide whether to pursue the case, not the victim.
The prosecutor can still move forward based on the evidence gathered during the investigation, such as witness statements, physical evidence or recordings of 911 calls. This approach aims to hold the offenders accountable and protect the victims.
What crimes are considered domestic violence in Kalamazoo?
Domestic violence is crimes of violence or abuse that occur between people in a domestic setting. It can include physical assault, threats, harassment, stalking or other forms of abusive behavior.
It is not limited to married couples; domestic violence can occur between family members, romantic partners (current or former), cohabitants or individuals who share a child. The key factor is that the offense involves people with a close or domestic relationship.
A Defense Lawyer Who Will Take Your Case Seriously
If you’ve been accused of a violent crime, choose your next move carefully, particularly when hiring a lawyer. Many criminal defense attorneys push for plea bargains to resolve cases quickly and avoid trial. I’m not one of them. I’m not afraid of going to trial if that’s what it takes to defend you. I’ll handle your case with the attention and determination it deserves.
Let’s talk about how to challenge the prosecution in your case. Call 888-723-0075 or send me an email for a free consultation.