Aggressive Criminal Defense Attorney in Westland, Michigan
When you are facing criminal charges, your future, freedom, and reputation are at stake. At The Farhat Law Firm, we provide aggressive and strategic defense for a variety of criminal matters throughout Wayne County, Oakland County, and Southeast Michigan. Founding attorney Bill Farhat is a former senior litigation attorney with extensive courtroom experience who understands what it takes to protect your rights at every stage of the criminal justice process.
Being charged with a crime does not mean you are guilty. Every person accused of a crime is entitled to a vigorous defense, and Attorney Farhat will thoroughly investigate the facts of your case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and fight to achieve the best possible outcome — whether that means a dismissal, reduced charges, or an acquittal at trial.
Call (734) 932-7428 for a free, confidential consultation.
Criminal Charges We Defend
The Farhat Law Firm defends clients against a broad range of misdemeanor and felony charges in Michigan state courts. No matter how serious the allegations, we approach every case with the preparation and determination needed to protect your rights.
Drug Offenses
Michigan drug charges range from simple possession of marijuana or controlled substances to more serious allegations of manufacturing, delivery, or possession with intent to distribute. Penalties can include significant prison time, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and professional licensing. Attorney Farhat examines every aspect of drug cases, including whether law enforcement conducted a lawful search and seizure, whether evidence was properly handled, and whether your constitutional rights were violated at any point during the investigation or arrest.
Assault and Violent Crimes
Assault charges in Michigan carry severe consequences, particularly when the charge is elevated to aggravated assault or assault with a dangerous weapon. We defend clients charged with simple assault, aggravated assault, assault with intent to do great bodily harm, domestic violence, and other violent offenses. Many assault cases involve disputes where self-defense or defense of others may apply, and our firm works to present every available defense to protect your freedom.
Theft and Property Crimes
Theft charges in Michigan include retail fraud (shoplifting), larceny, embezzlement, breaking and entering, home invasion, and receiving stolen property. The severity of the charge and potential penalties depend on the value of the property involved and the circumstances of the alleged offense. Even a misdemeanor theft conviction can have long-lasting consequences for your career and reputation. We fight to have charges reduced or dismissed whenever possible.
White-Collar Crimes
White-collar criminal charges — including fraud, forgery, identity theft, tax evasion, and computer crimes — often involve complex financial evidence and lengthy investigations. These cases require an attorney who can analyze financial records, understand regulatory frameworks, and effectively challenge the prosecution’s theory of the case. Attorney Farhat’s litigation background and analytical approach make him well-suited to handle sophisticated white-collar defense matters.
OWI / DUI Defense
Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) is a serious criminal offense in Michigan that can result in jail time, license suspension, vehicle immobilization, mandatory alcohol treatment programs, and steep fines. Whether you are charged with a first-offense OWI, OWI with a high BAC, or a second or subsequent offense, we will challenge the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, breathalyzer or blood test results, and any other evidence the prosecution relies on. Michigan has strict implied consent laws and administrative license suspension rules that require prompt legal action to protect your driving privileges.
Weapons Offenses
Firearms and weapons charges in Michigan can carry mandatory minimum sentences and felony convictions that permanently affect your rights. We defend clients charged with carrying a concealed weapon without a permit, felon in possession of a firearm, brandishing a weapon, and other weapons-related offenses. If you are facing weapons charges, early legal representation is critical.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence allegations can lead to criminal charges, personal protection orders, and serious consequences for child custody and family relationships. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and provide assertive defense while protecting your rights and your relationship with your children. Many domestic violence cases involve misunderstandings, false accusations, or situations where both parties bear responsibility, and Attorney Farhat works to ensure the full story is presented to the court.
The Criminal Defense Process in Michigan
Understanding the criminal justice process can help you make informed decisions about your case. Here is a general overview of how a criminal case progresses in Michigan:
Arraignment. You are formally advised of the charges against you and asked to enter a plea. Bond conditions are set at this hearing. Having an attorney present at arraignment can make a significant difference in the bond amount and conditions imposed.
Preliminary examination. In felony cases, the prosecution must present enough evidence at a preliminary hearing to establish probable cause that a crime was committed and that you committed it. This hearing provides an important opportunity to challenge the evidence early in the case.
Pretrial motions and negotiations. Your attorney files motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, challenge witness testimony, or dismiss charges. Plea negotiations also occur during this phase, and many cases are resolved through favorable plea agreements.
Trial. If a fair resolution cannot be reached through negotiation, your case proceeds to trial before a judge or jury. Attorney Bill Farhat is a seasoned trial lawyer who is fully prepared to present your defense in court.
Sentencing. If convicted, your attorney advocates for the most lenient sentence possible, presenting mitigating factors and alternative sentencing options to the court.
Protecting Your Rights After an Arrest
If you have been arrested or believe you are under investigation for a crime, it is critical to exercise your rights and contact an attorney immediately. Here are steps you should take:
- Exercise your right to remain silent. You are not required to answer questions from law enforcement beyond providing basic identifying information. Anything you say can and will be used against you.
- Do not consent to searches. You have the right to refuse consent to search your person, vehicle, or home. If police conduct a search without a warrant or valid exception, the evidence may be suppressed.
- Contact an attorney before making any statements. Do not agree to a police interview, sign any documents, or accept a plea deal without first speaking to a criminal defense lawyer.
Why Choose The Farhat Law Firm for Criminal Defense?
Courtroom experience that matters. Attorney Bill Farhat is a former senior litigation attorney who has spent years in Michigan courtrooms. He understands prosecution strategies and knows how to effectively counter them.
Thorough case preparation. We leave no stone unturned. Every police report, witness statement, piece of physical evidence, and procedural step is carefully reviewed for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Direct attorney contact. When you hire The Farhat Law Firm, you work directly with Attorney Farhat — not a paralegal or associate. Your case receives personal attention from start to finish.
Recognized legal talent. Bill Farhat has been named a Thomson Reuters Super Lawyers Rising Star from 2021 through 2024, recognizing him among the top young attorneys in Michigan.
Serving Clients Throughout Wayne and Oakland Counties
The Farhat Law Firm defends clients facing criminal charges in Westland, Southfield, Livonia, Canton, Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Garden City, Inkster, Redford, Plymouth, Farmington Hills, Royal Oak, Ferndale, Detroit, and surrounding communities. We appear in district courts, circuit courts, and municipal courts throughout the region.
Contact a Westland Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, do not wait to get legal help. The earlier an attorney is involved in your case, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Attorney Bill Farhat offers free, confidential consultations and is available to discuss your case right away.
Call (734) 932-7428 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. Our Westland office is located at 917 S Merriman Rd, Westland, MI 48186.