Justia Lawyer Rating
10 Best, Attorney Client Satisfaction Badge from the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
Top 100 Trial Lawyers Badge from The National Trial Lawyers
Top 100 Badge from America's Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys
NADC
Avoo Rating, 10.0 Scott Grabel
Top 10, Attorney and Practice Magazine's, Criminal Defense Law Firm

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is an indecent exposure charge something to be worried about?

A: Indecent exposure in Michigan, as in most states, is a misdemeanor, punishable not more than one year in jail or a $1,000 fine. In most instances, particularly for a first offense, there is a likelihood of being fined only. However, more severe penalties are possible. Where the indecent exposure involves fondling certain body parts, the sentence may be up to two years in prison, and a sexually delinquent person found guilty of indecent exposure can face an indeterminate sentence up to life in prison. Any indecent exposure charge should be taken very seriously.

Q: I have been convicted of a sex crime. Should I consider an appeal?

A: Generally yes. There is no guarantee that any conviction will be reversed on appeal, and an investigation of the facts of your case is essential to determine whether an appeal might be successful. However, sex crimes often involve unique evidentiary issues and the charges alone can inflame or prejudice a jury against a defendant. The penalties for many sex crimes are severe and long-lasting, and exploring the possibility of an appeal is a good idea.

Q: If I have been charged with child abuse, will I lose my parental rights?

A: You will not lose your parental rights simply because you are accused of child abuse. However, if you have been charged with child abuse, it is likely that the state’s Child Protective Services (CPS) will initiate proceedings to limit or terminate your parental rights. This proceeding is in family court, not criminal court, and is not directly related to your criminal case, although common evidence applies in both contexts. CPS may pursue termination of parental rights even if you are ultimately exonerated of the abuse charges.

Q: What is the statute of limitations for sexual abuse involving a minor?

A: Most crimes under Michigan state law have a six-year statute of limitations, except for certain more serious offenses. However, for any sexual abuse or assault of a minor, the statute of limitations is 10 years or until the minor turns 21, whichever is later. Rape has no statute of limitations in Michigan.

Q: If police contact me regarding a sex crime, should I talk to them?

A: You should first speak to an attorney. In some instances there is no potential harm in speaking with the police, but as a general matter law enforcement does not have your best interests in mind. In addition anything you say or what a police officer claims you said can be used against you in court. An experienced attorney can advise you on how to address any police investigation.

 

Client Reviews

★★★★★
If you are reading these reviews you are about to make a decision that will have a large impact on the rest of your life. I choose Grabel and Associates to represent me in my case and I could not have been more satisfied with the level of professionalism and dedication to their clients. I had the opportunity to meet and work with multiple lawyers in the practice all of which showcased a vast knowledge and understanding of the inner workings of the legal system. When you choose Scott Grabel to represent you will open yourself up to all of his resources. Depending on your case Grabel knows experts in all fields. I worked with polygraph examiners, investigators, and forensics experts. Grabel and Associates will defend without prejudice of innocence or guilt. Scott Grabel was able to lead me through every step of the process with great communication the whole way. I would recommend Scott Grabel and Associates to my friends, family and anyone who is in need of representation. B. A.
★★★★★
Best attorney in state of Michigan. Caring and a true friend. Scott was with us every step of the way. He fought for a great injustice for our son and was able to provide an outcome that gave his life back. L. A.
★★★★★
Scott and his firm did an awesome job representing a family member of mine, I would highly recommend him and his firm! They were extremely reliable, trustworthy and very informative and did a great job with the case. I couldn't be happier with the results that we received, I can't speak highly enough about the great job he did. If you are thinking about using his firm, I would highly recommend, I would definitely use his firm again if needed, he is an a great attorney with a great firm, you won't be disappointed! M. F.