Legal Question in Criminal Law in Michigan

Domestic Violence 1ST

Wife and I had an argument that escalated in to a shoving match, where she initiated the contact. However later that day after not resolving the problem and the word divorce came up she left and her ''friend'' (a super consverative, daughter of a preacher) told her to file charges on me. The cops came, arrested me, I spent the night in jail... in the morning I was arraigned and released with a no-contact personal bond. This has been extremely difficult on us in itself.

There were no injuries on either side - (emotional perhaps). My wife and I have reconciled (order notwithstanding, we have a 3 yr old and we intend on working things out)

I have about 3 weeks left until pre-trial. I contacted an attorney unfortunately there is no way I can afford more then a public defendant at this time.

Of course the detective and prosecuting attorney would not consider dropping the charges instead they are talking me in to a diversion,'' just plead guilty, you can have the record removed after a year.'' bs.

This goes against my better judgement, as I know they are only out for their own interests. I've been tried an executed in their eyes already.

PS I may be able to make payments, no way can we afford a lump sum. Any Advice?


Asked on 8/29/07, 3:44 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Re: Domestic Violence 1ST

Call our office at 1 8667665245. We'll see if we can help you out with the situation and with the finances.

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Answered on 8/29/07, 4:03 pm
Neil O'Brien Eaton County Special Assistant Prosecuting Attorney

Re: Domestic Violence 1ST

As a prosecutor, my primary advice is that you should consult with an attorney ... and then decide whether to hire him/her ... and then decide what your best options are (take the deal, go to trial, etc.). It's usually a bad idea to represent yourself.

One other piece of advice: if your bond currently says "no contact with the victim" ... and you are now LIVING with the victim ... you are violating your bond, and a cop can arrest you. The bond restriction is an order of the court. Don't comply/violate based on your personal needs. Better to file a motion with the court to modify the bond to eliminate this restriction, and have your wife there to explain why she doesn't want/need the protection.

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Answered on 8/29/07, 5:02 pm


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