Michigan MDOP Lawyers

MICHIGAN MALICIOUS DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY CHARGES

Under Michigan law, criminal property damage is charged as Willful and Malicious Destruction of Property (‘MDOP’). MDOP occurs when a person willfully and maliciously destroys or damages the property of another person. A malicious destruction of property charge requires an intent to damage the property – if your charge arises from an accident or if the property belonged to you rather than the victim, you may have a case that could result in a negotiated dismissal or an acquittal at trial.

This offense can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending upon the value of the damage done and prior convictions. It may be possible to negotiate a charge reduction or even avoid a conviction altogether by paying restitution to the victim. Paying restitution should only be considered after consultation with an attorney and, generally speaking, any payment arrangement should be made through an attorney in order to avoid self-incrimination and to maximize the benefit of such action on the outcome of the case.

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Michigan Misdemeanor Malicious Destruction of Property (MDOP)

  • If you have no prior convictions for MDOP and the value of the damage is less than $200.00, you can be charged with a misdemeanor punishable by a maximum of 93 days in jail and a fine of $500.00 or 3 times the value of the damage, whichever is greater.
  • If you have a prior conviction for MDOP or if the value of the damage is $200.00 or more but less than $1,000.00, you can be charged with a misdemeanor punishable by a maximum of one year in jail and a fine of $2,000 or three times the value of the damage, whichever is greater.

Michigan Felony Malicious Destruction of Property (MDOP)

You can be charged with a felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of $10,000 or three times the value of the property damage, whichever is greater if any of the following apply to your offense:

  • The value of damage is between $1,000.00 or more but less than $20,000.00 or
  • You have one or more prior convictions of this offense.

You can be charged with a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of not more than $15,000.00 or 3 times the property damage, whichever is greater, if any of the following apply to your charge:

  • The amount of the damage is $20,000.00 or more or
  • You have 2 or more prior convictions for committing MDOP.

Michigan Malicious Destruction of Property: A Criminal Offense

When selecting your legal team, it’s also important to recognize that a Malicious Destruction of Property (MDOP) charge is a criminal offense. That is to say, an act of MDOP is a crime. In comparison to a criminal offense, a civil case regarding destruction of property involves monetary damages (money), but the consequences are limited to payment of money. A criminal charge of MDOP isn’t limited to payment of money to the victim (restitution), it can also result in imposition of fines, court costs, probation and incarceration. Criminal MDOP cases require an experienced legal team that know how to avoid the much harsher penalties associated with a crime. Attorney Jeffrey Buehner has the understanding you’re looking for.

Choose A Michigan MDOP Defense Lawyer with Experience

In his time working with clients on MDOP charges, Michigan Criminal Defense Lawyer Jeffrey Buehner knows no two cases are the same. Through the years, he has represented clients with MDOP charges arising from countless situations, including domestic-related incidents to run-ins with next-door neighbors. With every new case, we are able to better serve and better understand our clients. Let us put our 22 years of experience to work for you to help you navigate the legal system and secure the best outcomes for your MDOP charge. For proven experience and in-depth MDOP knowledge, you’re in good hands with Michigan MDOP Attorney Jeffrey Buehner.

Facing MDOP Charges? Contact Our Michigan MDOP Attorneys Today

If you’d like to discuss your Michigan malicious destruction of property charge with an experienced MDOP lawyer, call Jeffrey Buehner for a free consultation at (248) 865-9640 or fill out our Free Consultation form.

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