Legal Question in Criminal Law in Michigan

Yes, you can and you should. However, just be prepared that the judge may deny it. Even if he does, the point is that is was stated on the record and thus preserved for appeal. If there has been no previous adjournments or delays the judge may be more willing to grant the adjournment than if it had been on the docket for a really long time. Depending on the policy of the court there may even be a back-up trial just in case one case gets settled or delayed. Some judges are more apt to grant adjournments than others, especially on trial day. It's a big expense and inconvenience for the court because the county has spent funds on getting potential jurors there for the day as well as witnesses and the court has cleared a portion of their docket for your case. That is why many are reluctant to grant adjournments on the day of trial but it's worth a shot. You can ask the judge to appoint you another lawyer or hire your own. The advantage in retaining your own attorney is that you get to pick your lawyer and they often have more time to devote to your case and more available to consult with you and return your calls.

Feel free to contact my office if interested in retaining our services. If not, we may be able to refer you to another attorney in the area. Your first consultation is always free and with no obligation.

Request an adjournment and a new lawyer BEFORE the trial date. The judge will likely deny the request of you wait until the trial date.

John Melton

www.LawMelton.com