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Michigan’s Habitual Offender Law Impact Criminal Cases and Sentencing for Repeat Offenders.


Our East Lansing criminal defense lawyer at Ben Hall Law knows Michigan’s Habitual Offender Law significantly impacts criminal cases and sentencing for repeat offenders.

This law allows enhanced penalties for individuals with prior felony convictions who commit new felony offenses. The goal is to deter repeat crime by imposing stricter penalties on those with a criminal history in Michigan.

Habitual Offender Law Impact Criminal Cases and Sentencing for Repeat Offenders

What are the Key Provisions of the Habitual Offender Law in Michigan?

The law mandates increased sentences for offenders with previous felony convictions. The severity of the enhancement depends on the number of prior felony convictions.

The enhancements are tiered based on the number of prior felony convictions, and may include:

  • Second Offense

If a person has one prior felony conviction, the maximum sentence for a new felony may increase by up to 1.5 times the original maximum.

  • Third Offense

If a person has two prior felony convictions, the maximum sentence for a new felony may increase by up to twice the original maximum.

  • Fourth or Subsequent Offense

Should a person have three or more prior felony convictions, the maximum sentence for a new felony may increase to life imprisonment or any term of years.

Although the law allows enhanced sentencing, judges still have discretion. They may consider the circumstances of the case and the defendant’s criminal history.

Certain offenses carry mandatory minimum sentences, which may increase under Michigan’s habitual offender laws. For the most serious repeat offenders with three or more prior felonies, courts may impose life imprisonment even if the new felony normally carries a lower penalty.

If you have prior felony convictions, or attempted felony convictions, you may face sentencing as a habitual offender in the future. If you believe you may face an enhanced sentence or have received notice of habitual offender status, seek legal representation immediately.

Contact Our Criminal Defense Attorney in Michigan Today

Contact our criminal defense lawyer in Michigan to discuss your case with a trusted professional who believes in you and your case by calling (877)-236-4255 or contacting us online. Your fight is our fight. Let’s get started.

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