Sex Crimes Attorney in Detroit
Facing accusations of a sex crime is an exceptionally serious matter that may potentially carry far-reaching consequences. Sex-offense charges can jeopardize your personal reputation, relationships, and future opportunities, while also exposing you to the possibility of severe legal penalties. The severity of the penalties for a conviction in a sex offense can range from prison sentences to lifelong registration as a sex offender, and that means the stakes in these cases can be among the highest of any type of criminal matter. Navigating the complexities of these cases requires not only a thorough understanding of the law but also a strategic approach that is centered around protecting your rights and freedoms.
Attorney David I. Lee brings over 25 years of focused criminal defense experience. With deep local knowledge and a track record proven over more than 3,000 handled cases, he and the team at The Law Offices of David I. Lee are dedicated to providing straightforward advice and skillful legal defense to clients in Detroit and the surrounding areas, including cases being tried in federal court. When you work with us, you’ll have direct access to an experienced attorney who is trusted by clients from all walks of life, including law enforcement personnel, sports and entertainment figures, and more. We aspire to provide a client service experience that's second to none, helping ease your mind during this often-stressful process.
If you're facing sex offense charges, get help from The Law Offices of David I. Lee right away. Call us to schedule a free consultation at (313) 824-3497.
Notable Cases
Our top priority is to devise customized legal strategies that are tailored to the unique legal needs of our clients, no matter how simple or complicated their situations, might be.
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PA Boys and BMF – U.S. District Court (Judge Nancy Edmunds, Judge Avern Cohn)
David represented Sherrod King in a large-scale drug conspiracy before Judge Nancy Edmunds,(03-80981, ED Mich, Judge Edmunds). King was a well-known Detroit rapper and an alleged member of the so-called “P.A. Boys.”
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People v. Govender (Judge Patricia Fresard, Wayne County Circuit Court)
David successfully represented an accomplished nurse in People v. Govender. In this case, Govender had killed her infant son and attempted suicide in a rage of postpartum psychosis.
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People V. Terri Sutton, (Judge Paula Humphries)
David represented Terri Sutton, the first of two 911 operators ever to be charged criminally in the United States. The case involved a young boy who called 911 after his mother had died. It was later determined that two operators acted criminally in the handling of the boy’s calls.
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United States v. Abro, 93-80140, ED Mich (Judge Barbara Hackett)
In 1993, David obtained his first federal not guilty verdict in the case of United States v. Abro, et al. This win came in the wake of David’s 20 consecutive “not guilty” state court verdicts.
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United States V. Baily, (Judge Julian Cook)
David represented a defendant in the “La Shish Restaurant” case, which included allegations of conspiracy to defraud the federal government, tax evasion and money laundering involving a well-known chain of restaurants, its employees and owner.
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United States V. Bartkus (Judge Gerald Rosen)
In 1989, David tried his first Federal case, United States v. Bartkus, wherein he represented the only defendant in this multi-defendant case to go to trial.
What Are Sex Offenses in Michigan?
Michigan law defines sex offenses as a variety of unlawful acts that infringe upon an individual’s physical autonomy and personal safety. The state aims to protect individuals, especially vulnerable groups such as minors, by enforcing strict penalties on those convicted of such crimes. Understanding the specifics of these offenses and their legal definitions is essential for anyone involved in the criminal justice process, as convictions can result in profound and lasting consequences.
Some of the offenses defined under Michigan law include:
Why Choose The Law Offices of David I. Lee?
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Proven Legal ExperienceWith decades of courtroom experience, David Lee is prepared to defend your rights.
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Complimentary ConsultationStart with a free consultation to better understand your legal options.
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Always AccessibleYou’ll have direct, 24/7 access to your attorney for trusted legal guidance.
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Hands-On RepresentationDavid Lee provides respectful, one-on-one attention to every client and case.
Stay In The Know
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How Long Is Drug Court in Michigan?In the state of Michigan, the Drug Court program consists of three separate phases: the stabilization phase, an intensive treatment phase, and a transition phase. The program can be completed in as quickly as 18 months but can vary depending on the progress of the individual participating in the program.
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How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in Michigan?There are several elements that factor into the total cost of a criminal defense lawyer in Michigan, including the overall severity of the case, the experience and reputation of the attorney, whether or not the case proceeds to trial, and the geographic location of the attorney. For example, a more experienced attorney in Detroit for a felony case is going to cost more than a misdemeanor case handled by a less experienced attorney.
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What Is the Penalty for Drug Possession in Michigan?The penalties for drug possession in Michigan vary largely based on the classification of drugs, the amount of drugs in possession, if it is your first offense or you are a repeat offender, and whether or not you committed other crimes while in possession of the drugs.
A possession conviction of a large amount of a Schedule I substance like heroin or cocaine can lead to likely jail time in addition to fines, whereas convictions for lesser classified drugs in a small quantity can still lead to fines and a driver’s license suspension, but may be able to avoid jail time.
Penalties for Sex Offenses in Michigan
A conviction for a sex offense in Michigan carries severe penalties that can profoundly impact your freedom, future opportunities, and personal and professional reputation. Due to the seriousness of these crimes, Michigan law imposes some of the harshest penalties in the criminal justice system on sex offenders. Prosecutors often push for severe sentences, even for first-time offenders, making skilled legal representation essential.
Here are some of the penalties for a sex offense conviction under Michigan law:
- Criminal Sexual Conduct – First Degree (MCL § 750.520b): Punishable by up to life in prison. This includes sexual penetration involving victims under 13, or cases involving force, coercion, or other aggravating factors.
- Criminal Sexual Conduct – Second Degree (MCL § 750.520c): Punishable by up to 15 years in prison. This involves sexual contact (not penetration) under similar aggravating circumstances as first-degree offenses.
- Criminal Sexual Conduct – Third Degree (MCL § 750.520d): Punishable by up to 15 years in prison. This includes sexual penetration involving victims aged 13–15, or where force or coercion is involved.
- Criminal Sexual Conduct – Fourth Degree (MCL § 750.520e): A misdemeanor punishable by up to 2 years in prison or a fine of up to $500. This includes instances of sexual contact involving force or victims aged 16–17 under certain conditions.
- Child Sexually Abusive Material (MCL § 750.145c): Producing or distributing child pornography is a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $100,000. Possession is punishable by up to 4 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
- Failure to Register as a Sex Offender (MCL § 28.729): A felony punishable by up to 4 years in prison, with enhanced penalties for repeat offenses.
In addition to the criminal penalties, the Sex Offenders Registration Act (SORA) typically requires individuals convicted of a sex offense to register with the Michigan Sex Offender Registry. Registration can impose significant restrictions on employment, housing, and other aspects of life, often for decades or even a lifetime.
Don't Wait; Call an Attorney Right Away!
Facing a sex offense charge is overwhelming, so taking action to protect your rights quickly is crucial. At The Law Offices of David I. Lee, Attorney David I. Lee brings over 25 years of dedicated criminal defense experience and a thorough familiarity with Michigan criminal law to every case. We are here to provide compassionate support and a strong, informed legal defense when you need it most.
Take the first step toward protecting your future; contact The Law Offices of David I. Lee today to schedule your consultation with us.