Felonious assault in Michigan is a felony punishable by up to 4 years in prison, a fine of up to $2,000, or both. It applies when a person assaults another with a gun, knife, club, or other dangerous weapon without intending to murder or to inflict great bodily harm. The charge is set by MCL 750.82.
Reviewed by Attorney Kevin Bessant, Law Office of Kevin Bessant & Associates. Last reviewed October 2026.
Felonious assault at a glance
| Charge | Assault with a dangerous weapon, MCL 750.82(1) |
|---|---|
| Level | Felony |
| Penalty | Up to 4 years in prison, a fine of up to $2,000, or both |
| Weapons named in the statute | Gun, revolver, pistol, knife, iron bar, club, brass knuckles, or other dangerous weapon |
| Health professional victim | The fine can be up to $4,000 when the victim is a health professional or medical volunteer performing duties (some exceptions apply) |
| Weapon free school zone | Separate penalty options apply, including up to 4 years, up to 150 hours of community service, or a fine of up to $6,000 (MCL 750.82(2)) |
| Trial court | The circuit court, after the case begins in district court |
How does a felonious assault case move through court?
- Arraignment in district court, where bond is set.
- Preliminary examination. The prosecutor must show probable cause.
- Bindover to circuit court if probable cause is found.
- Resolution by dismissal, reduction, plea, or trial.
What matters in the defense
- Self-defense. Whether you reasonably acted to protect yourself or another person.
- Was it a dangerous weapon? The prosecutor must prove the object qualifies and was used as a weapon.
- Identification and credibility. Conflicting accounts are common in these cases.
- Reduction. In some cases a lawyer can negotiate a lower charge. See assault and battery defense.
Related pages: gun or weapon charges and misdemeanor or felony offense.
Frequently asked questions
Is felonious assault a felony in Michigan?
Yes. MCL 750.82 makes it a felony with up to 4 years in prison, a fine of up to $2,000, or both.
Does the weapon have to be a gun?
No. The statute also lists a knife, iron bar, club, brass knuckles, or other dangerous weapon.
Talk to a Detroit felonious assault attorney
Call Attorney Kevin Bessant at 313-658-8159 for a free consultation.
Legal Authority
See MCL 750.82 in the Michigan Legislature’s text. This page is general information, not legal advice.