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Most law enforcement officers in Michigan enter the profession with a strong commitment to serve and protect their communities. But when an officer is accused of misconduct, even without malicious intent, their career, reputation, and freedom may be at risk. Whether the accusation involves excessive force, failure to follow protocol, or an off-duty incident, officers can find themselves under investigation by both internal and criminal authorities simultaneously.
At Ben Hall Law, our East Lansing criminal defense lawyers understand how these investigations unfold. We represent law enforcement professionals at every stage, from internal affairs interviews to courtroom defense, with a focus on protecting both your rights and your future.
Internal affairs investigations are launched when a department receives a complaint about an officer’s behavior. These reviews are administrative, but the consequences can be significant. Officers can face suspension, demotion, loss of pay, or termination, even if no criminal charges are brought against them.
Internal investigators will often review body cam footage, interview witnesses, and request a written or recorded statement from the officer. You may be asked to provide this statement under a Garrity warning, which means your words cannot be used in a criminal case but can be used for disciplinary action. It is important to understand your rights and obligations before speaking to internal affairs.
Many officers mistakenly believe that cooperating fully and immediately will resolve the issue. While cooperation is essential, speaking without legal guidance can lead to unintended consequences. We help clients prepare for interviews and ensure that their responses are accurate, consistent, and legally protected.
In some cases, internal affairs findings are referred to prosecutors for further action. This can happen if the conduct in question involves a use-of-force incident, a civil rights allegation, or a situation that gains public attention. Prosecutors may bring criminal charges even if the officer acted in the moment based on training and experience.
Being criminally charged as a law enforcement officer carries more than just legal consequences. It can impact pension eligibility, state certification, and the ability to continue in law enforcement anywhere. That is why early and aggressive legal representation is critical.
Our attorneys are well-versed in both the criminal justice system and the specific rules governing public employees. We build strong defenses that focus on departmental policies, use-of-force standards, and the high-pressure environments officers face daily. We also work to ensure that charges based on political pressure or public misunderstanding are met with clear, evidence-based responses.
Allegations against good officers are more common than many realize. A moment of misjudgment, confusion around policy, or an off-duty situation can lead to serious accusations. At Ben Hall Law, we treat every case with the urgency and respect it deserves.
If you are a law enforcement officer in Michigan facing an internal or criminal investigation, call 877-BEN-HALL (517-798-5801) or contact us online today. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys will help you navigate both the legal and administrative challenges ahead while protecting your career and your reputation.