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AGGRESSIVE STRATEGIES & COMPASSIONATE ATTENTION IN WESTERN MICHIGAN

The Grand Rapids criminal defense attorneys at Blanchard Law provide personal service by keeping a low caseload. We are aggressive in our approach to fighting for our clients after an arrest, always treating them as individuals. Our lawyers are compassionate and we always take the time to get to know our clients’ situation. We are effective defense attorneys because we have the knowledge and skills necessary to defend your rights. If you have been accused or arrested for a serious crime, you need Blanchard Law on your side.

Our Grand Rapids DUI Attorney Explains Your Right to Refuse a DUI Breath Test

Sep 10, 2015

Our Grand Rapids DUI attorney often receives questions about DUI stops or arrests with concerns about the right to refuse a breath test. While many people relate their various experiences or act as arm-chair lawyers, it’s best to speak with someone with the background and experience to provide you with the proper information. Here is what you […]

Grand Rapids Criminal Attorney Discusses the State’s Evaluation of Your DUI Case

Aug 10, 2015

Most of us have experienced the unnerving experience of hearing a siren and seeing red lights in our rearview mirrors. However, when that detention by a police officer leads to an arrest for driving under the influence (DUI), the stakes and costs significantly increase. A DUI conviction can result in jail time, substantial fines, loss […]

Your Grand Rapids DUI Attorney Explains the Rules of DUI Stops

Jul 10, 2015

There are certain rules that apply in order for a police officer to make a lawful DUI traffic stop. Your Grand Rapids DUI attorney has outlined below the personal observation requirement for reasonable suspicion in the case of DUI stops. WHAT IS REASONABLE SUSPICION? In order to be in lawful, DUI stops must be conducted […]

Our Grand Rapids Criminal Defense Law Firm Defines Bail Agencies

Jun 4, 2015

When you have been arrested, bail will usually be offered to you so that you do not have to wait in jail until your court date. Your Grand Rapids criminal defense law firm can help you with the process of making bail. Your criminal defense attorney will also be able to advise you on the […]

A Grand Rapids Criminal Law Attorney Explains “Dropsy” Cases

May 21, 2015

It is not uncommon for a criminal law case to be based on the following scenario: the police allegedly observe an individual handling some contraband, such as a gun or illegal drugs, approach that person and he or she discards the item. The police then retrieve the item and use it as evidence to make […]

How Your DUI Attorney in Grand Rapids Will Educate You About Your DUI Case

May 14, 2015

A DUI attorney in Grand Rapids will educate you about the offenses you are alleged to have committed. YOUR DUI ATTORNEY IN GRAND RAPIDS WILL EXPLAIN THE ELEMENTS OF DUI CHARGES For the prosecutor to secure a conviction in a DUI case, the elements must be proved beyond a reasonable doubt. If there are elements […]

Procedures in a Criminal Case

Apr 24, 2015

After a criminal arrest, you might feel nervous, frustrated, or angry, so you might want to immediately contact a seasoned Grand Rapids criminal attorney. The length of time from your arrest until your first time in court, also called the initial appearance, can seem unending, especially when you are in custody. In addition to the […]

Overcoming a Past Failure To Appear At Your Bail Hearing

Apr 16, 2015

Attending your bail hearing is important and should never be neglected. Failing to appear for your bail hearing will only make the hearing much more difficult for your attorney. Even past failures to appear at a bail hearing can be used against you at your current hearing. If you have ever failed to appear at […]

Bail Reduction Hearings Explained by a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Grand Rapids

Apr 9, 2015

A criminal defense lawyer in Grand Rapids can explain the constitutional rules regarding bail and the amount that a court can order on a particular defendant. Additionally, he or she can discuss arguments that support a defendant’s request for a reduction in bail. GOALS OF BAIL Your criminal defense lawyer in Grand Rapids may begin […]

What Does Guilt “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt” Mean?

Apr 2, 2015

The principle of “innocent until proven guilty” is a fundamental cornerstone of our justice system. It means if you have been charged with a crime, you are presumed innocent unless the prosecution is able to prove your guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt.” The state must convince the jury “to a moral certainty” that you are […]