16^th District Court in Livonia, Michigan: A Comprehensive Guide

Two highly experienced judges lead the Livonia District Court. The Court is responsible for handling felony and misdemeanor cases and civil matters arising in Livonia, Michigan.

What You Need to Know About the 16^th District Court in Livonia

If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Livonia, Michigan, understanding the 16th District Court’s operations and procedures is essential. The Livonia District Court handles various cases, including felonies, misdemeanors, and traffic violations. The following is crucial information about the court, the judges, common cases, and the importance of having a skilled defense attorney by your side.

About the 16th District Court

The 16th District Court is located in Livonia, Michigan, serving the city’s residents and those in the surrounding areas. The court’s address is:

16th District Court
32765 Five Mile Road
Livonia, MI 48154
(734) 466-2500

The Livonia District Court handles a range of cases, including criminal, civil, traffic, and small claims. Civil cases include lawsuits for money damages and landlord/tenant matters.

Judges at the 16th District Court

The 16th District Court currently has several judges who preside over cases. Understanding the judges’ backgrounds and tendencies can be beneficial when preparing your defense. The Livonia District Court judges include:

Judge Kathleen J. McCann: Known for her thorough and fair approach, she has a reputation for being tough but just.

Judge Sean P. Kavanagh: He has a background in prosecution and defense. He provides a balanced perspective in his rulings.

Types of Cases Handled

The Livonia District Court handles various criminal cases, including:

Felonies

Felonies are serious crimes that may result in imprisonment for more than one year. Examples include the following:

felonious assault and domestic strangulation
fraud, embezzlement, and other white-collar crimes
OWI – operating while intoxicated – third offense
criminal sexual conduct
felony retail fraud (shoplifting)
burglary and home invasion
drug trafficking
weapons crimes

Misdemeanors

Misdemeanors are lesser offenses with potential jail time of up to one year. Common misdemeanors include the following:

retail fraud (shoplifting)
domestic violence
assault and battery and other assaultive crimes
operating while intoxicated (OWI)
reckless driving
traffic misdemeanors

Probation Violations

Cases where individuals are accused of violating the terms of their probation. Judges in the Livonia District Court routinely order probation for one year or more. The maximum probation term for misdemeanors is two (2) years. Probation terms often include therapy, education, prohibitions on alcohol, drug, and marijuana use, curfews, payment schedules, and much more. Simple mistakes can frequently lead to probation violations and the possibility of jail time.

Arraignments and Bonds

Arraignments are the initial hearings in felony and misdemeanor cases where defendants are formally charged and bail conditions are set. A bond can be personal, 10%, cash, or surety. It is always best to appear for arraignment in the Livonia District Court with a qualified, experienced criminal defense lawyer.

Why You Need an Experienced Defense Attorney

Facing criminal charges can be an overwhelming and intimidating experience, especially in the Livonia District Court where the judges are known to favor the prosecution. This is why having an experienced, effective defense attorney is not just beneficial—it’s essential. Here are specific ways a skilled defense lawyer can make a crucial difference in your case:

Thorough Case Evaluation: An experienced defense attorney will meticulously review your case’s details, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and develop a robust defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.

Knowledge of the Court and Judges: Familiarity with the Livonia District Court and its judges allows a seasoned lawyer to anticipate potential challenges and strategically navigate courtroom dynamics. This knowledge can be leveraged to your advantage during hearings and negotiations.

Skillful Negotiation: A competent defense attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to seek reduced charges, favorable plea deals, or even case dismissals. Their negotiation skills can result in significantly lesser penalties, protecting your future and freedom.

Effective Representation at Arraignments and Bond Hearings: From the moment you are arraigned, a skilled attorney can argue persuasively for reasonable bail conditions and advocate for your release, ensuring you remain free while awaiting trial.

Aggressive Defense at Trial: Should your case go to trial, an experienced lawyer will vigorously cross-examine witnesses, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and present a compelling case in your defense. Their courtroom expertise can significantly influence the trial’s outcome.

Expertise in Handling Probation Violations: Probation violations can carry severe consequences. An adept attorney can present mitigating factors, advocate for alternative sentencing, and work to keep you out of jail.

Protection of Your Rights: Throughout the legal process, your attorney will ensure that your constitutional rights are protected. If law enforcement or the prosecution took unlawful actions, our team will seek to suppress evidence or demand dismissal of the charges.

Guidance and Support: Beyond legal representation, a good defense attorney provides emotional support and practical guidance, helping you understand each step of the legal process, including your options, and make informed decisions.

At LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C., we have a proven track record of successfully defending clients in the 16th District Court. Our team of dedicated attorneys is committed to relentlessly pursuing the best possible outcome for our clients. We utilize our extensive experience and understanding of the Livonia prosecutors and judges to protect and defend our clients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I expect at my arraignment?

You will be formally charged and informed of your rights at the arraignment, and the judge will set bail. Having a qualified attorney present is crucial to helping you understand the charges and advocate for a low or personal bail.

What happens if I violate my probation?

Probation violations can result in serious consequences, including jail time. Although jail is not mandatory for a probation violation, it is often the judge’s first choice. A strong equitable, factual, or legal defense can help you avoid jail time and other penalties.

How can an attorney help with my case?

An experienced defense attorney can provide invaluable assistance, from negotiating bail to defending you in court. They understand the 16^th District Court court’s procedures and the judges’ tendencies and can craft a defense strategy tailored to your case in Livonia, Michigan.

Top Defense Attorneys for the 16^th District Court in Livonia

If you are facing criminal charges in Livonia, the stakes are high. If you have no tolerance for false promises, mistakes, or ineffective legal counsel, LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. is the right team for you! The experienced attorneys at LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. are here to help. We relentlessly pursue the best possible outcome for our clients. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us put our expertise to work for you.

Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete an online Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.

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