When you’re facing criminal charges, it is natural to feel stressed. It is indeed one of the most stressful experiences anyone can go through. Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, hiring a skilled criminal defense lawyer is critical to protecting your rights and ensuring the best possible outcome in your case. However, one of the biggest concerns many people have is how much a criminal lawyer costs and whether they can afford one.
At The Law Office of Kevin Bessant & Associates, we believe everyone deserves a strong legal defense, and we offer flexible payment options to ensure quality representation.
In this guide, we will break down criminal defense lawyer fees, factors affecting costs, and what to expect when hiring an attorney in Michigan.
1. Factors That Determine the Cost of a Criminal Lawyer
First thing first. You should understand that the cost of a criminal lawyer varies widely depending on several factors, including:
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The Severity of the Charges
The severity of the charges determines the amount you have to pay to your criminal lawyer in Michigan. Generally, defending misdemeanors (such as DUI, simple assault, or shoplifting) is less expensive than felony cases. Fees for defending misdemeanor charges can range from $1,500 to $5,000.
On the other hand, serious offenses like gun crimes, drug trafficking, or violent felonies require extensive defense strategies, and legal fees typically start from $10,000+.
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Attorney’s Experience and Reputation
Surely, you’d want an experienced criminal defense attorney in Michigan with an implacable reputation. A highly experienced criminal defense lawyer with a proven track record of success often charges higher fees. However, if you choose a low-cost attorney with limited experience, it may end up costing you more in the long run if they fail to secure a favorable outcome.
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Case Complexity & Legal Work Required
Cases that involve multiple charges, extensive evidence, or require expert witnesses will drive up the cost. Additionally, trial cases cost significantly more than cases settled through plea deals or dismissals.
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Geographic Location
Legal fees vary by state and city. In Michigan, hiring a top-rated criminal defense attorney in Detroit may cost more than hiring one in a smaller town due to differences in demand and cost of living.
2. Common Criminal Defense Fee Structures
Every criminal lawyer charges a fee that is beneficial for themselves and the client. However, typically, most of them charge in the following ways:
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Flat Fee
Many criminal lawyers charge a flat rate for standard cases, meaning you pay a one-time fee regardless of the number of hours worked. This is common for misdemeanors, DUIs, and simple felonies.
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Hourly Rate
Some attorneys charge hourly fees ranging from $150 to $500+ per hour. The total cost depends on how much time your lawyer spends on your case, including research, court appearances, and legal filings.
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Retainer Fees
Some law firms require an upfront retainer, where you prepay for legal services, and fees are deducted as work is completed. Retainers can start from $5,000 and can go higher depending on the case.
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Payment Plans
At Kevin Bessant & Associates, we understand that legal fees can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer flexible payment plans so that clients can get top-tier defense without immediate financial strain.
3. What’s Included in Criminal Lawyer Fees?
It is vital for you to understand what’s included in the fees when hiring a criminal defense lawyer. Typically, legal fees cover:
- Legal research & case investigation
- Filing motions & court documents
- Negotiating plea deals
- Representation in court
- Trial preparation (if necessary)
However, some costs may not be included, such as expert witness fees, private investigators, or court filing fees. Always ask for full transparency when discussing fees with an attorney.
4. Can You Afford a Criminal Defense Attorney?
Hiring a criminal lawyer is an investment in your future. Without proper legal representation, you risk jail time, heavy fines, and a criminal record that can haunt you for life.
If you’re worried about costs, consider:
- Public Defenders: If you can’t afford a lawyer, you may qualify for a public defender. However, public defenders are often overworked and may not provide the personalized defense that private attorneys can.
- Hiring an Experienced Criminal Lawyer with Payment Plans: Many law firms, including Kevin Bessant & Associates, offer flexible payment plans to help clients afford top-quality defense.
5. Why Hiring the Right Criminal Lawyer is Worth It
Choosing an experienced, aggressive criminal defense lawyer can mean the difference between a conviction and a dismissal. When facing criminal charges, hiring an attorney should not be about finding the cheapest option—it should be about finding the best defense possible.
At Kevin Bessant & Associates, we fight tirelessly for our clients, ensuring their rights are protected, their cases are thoroughly investigated, and they receive the best legal defense available.
If you’re facing criminal charges in Michigan, call us today for a FREE consultation!