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A Michigan Criminal Defense Trial Lawyer With 20 Years Of Experience

Whether you have been accused of a misdemeanor or felony, the outcome of your case can profoundly affect your life. You may be facing incarceration, fines, probation, driver’s license suspension, and other sanctions. An experienced defense lawyer can seek to avoid or minimize these penalties. But you can’t hire just any attorney. You need someone who will go the distance for you and dedicate the effort required to fight your charge.

I am Bernard Jocuns, a criminal defense lawyer in Lapeer. For 20 years I have focused my practice on providing criminal defense services in Michigan. I recognize what’s at stake in a criminal case and the lasting impacts of a criminal conviction. Therefore, I thoroughly prepare for every case with the mindset of defeating the charges or mitigating those consequences. I have devoted a significant amount of time to developing and strengthening my skills and pursuing training opportunities that benefit my clients.

Fighting All Types Of Criminal Allegations

I have a never-give-up attitude and I am invigorated by a challenge. Although your case might appear complex, I examine it from every angle, analyzing the facts to determine the arguments to raise to challenge the prosecutor’s evidence. You can rest assured that your criminal matter – no matter what the allegations – is in good hands. My criminal law practice covers the full spectrum, including:

  • Drunk driving arrests – OWI, “super drunk” charges, breath test refusal
  • Drug offenses – Drug possession, possession with intent, drug trafficking
  • Sex crimes – Sexual assault, internet sex crimes, sexual contact with minors
  • Homicide charges – Murder, manslaughter and vehicular homicide
  • Assault charges – Domestic assault, aggravated assault
  • Abuse/neglect – Child abuse charges and Child Protective Services removal
  • Other felony crimes – Robbery, burglary, embezzlement, fraud

I have tried cases in state and federal courts throughout Michigan, including many cases in Lapeer County, Genessee County and surrounding jurisdictions. No case is too big or too small. At Jocuns Law Firm, I treat every case with the seriousness it deserves, and I believe every person is entitled the presumption of innocence and a robust defense.

A True Litigator On Your Side

My job as a criminal defense attorney is to investigate the circumstances of the charge, interview witnesses, and either defend my client in court or negotiate a fair resolution with the prosecuting attorney.

While many cases are ultimately resolved through a plea arrangement, I am not a plea attorney who is looking to “make a deal” and move on to the next case. I am a trial lawyer. That means that I regularly litigate cases and exhaust all defenses before considering plea deals. It means that when your freedom and your future hang in the balance, I am ready and able to argue your case in court and have a judge or jury decide the outcome. The decision whether to go to trial is made after a thorough review of all the details of your arrest, charges and evidence against you to find any flaws or mistakes in law enforcement’s procedures or the prosecution’s case.

What To Expect When You Are Suspected Of A Crime

After the prosecutor reviews the police report, they will determine whether to file charges. If they decide to proceed with the case, you will be scheduled for an arraignment. This is your first court appearance, where a judge will inform you of your rights and the charges. They may also set bond and the conditions of pretrial release.

Depending on whether you’ve been accused of a felony or misdemeanor, you might be asked to enter a plea at the initial arraignment or wait until a Circuit Court arraignment. The case may then go to trial, where the prosecutor presents evidence in an attempt to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

If you are convicted of or plead guilty to the charges, you will be sentenced. The judge will determine what penalties to impose, such as incarceration, fines, probation or community service. If you believe an error occurred in your case, you may be able to appeal the judgment or sentence.

There Is No Substitute For An Experienced Defense Lawyer

The Michigan criminal justice process is complex. Trying to navigate it on your own can be frustrating. A good defense attorney will provide counsel at all stages of your case. I can advise you on what to say or do during the investigation process and explain the different paths your case could take. I can present compelling arguments to challenge the prosecutor’s version of events at trial. If you have been accused of a crime in Genessee County, I can help you fight the charges and protect your rights.

Contact Jocuns Law Firm Today

Jocuns Law Firm represents the accused in Lapeer County, Genessee County and throughout Michigan. To discuss your charges and how my staff and I can make a difference, call me at 810-498-2772 to schedule a free consultation, or use the online form to tell me a few details.