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# Shannon Smith Law

Nationally-Recognized Sex Crimes Defense Attorney

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## Posts

- [Important Trial Material Missed by Other Lawyers](https://defendingabuse.com/important-trial-material-missed-by-other-lawyers/) - Shannon Smith and Gail Benson represent clients accused of sex crimes. This does not just mean that we handle sex cases. We focus on sex crimes because they are difficult cases that involve complicated areas of law and psychology. Our firm keeps current on the latest research and science about child psychology and development, how
- [Influence Causes an Innocent Man to be Convicted](https://defendingabuse.com/influence-causes-an-innocent-man-to-be-convicted/) - The Innocence Project has done it again. On October 21, 2011 Henry James was released from prison after his rape conviction was vacated. DNA testing proved James was innocent after he spent 29 years and 11 months incarcerated for a crime he did not commit. The most scary part of this case, in my opinion,
- [Michigan Sex Crimes](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-sex-crimes/) - Smith Blythe, PC represents clients accused of Michigan sex crimes. This includes charges of sexual misconduct, criminal sexual conduct, statutory rape, molestation and sexual abuse. Shannon Smith works with Gail Benson who is “of counsel” to the firm. Gail Benson has over 35 years of experience and has focused much of her career defending Michigan sex crimes. Michigan
- [Mandated Reporters and Sex Crimes](https://defendingabuse.com/mandated-reporters-and-sex-crimes/) - Throughout the past few days, the sex crimes scandal that has taken over Penn State has been hard to miss. Tonight, news reports indicate that Joe Paterno, the former Penn State football coach, has contacted a high profile criminal defense attorney. He has been widely criticized for having knowledge of allegations that Jerry Sandusky, the
- [Reliability Versus Credibility](https://defendingabuse.com/reliability-versus-credibility/) - Shannon Smith is a criminal sexual conduct lawyer who represents clients accused of sex crimes. This series of articles is designed to help you understand the many complex issues that arise in criminal sexual conduct cases. It is critical to hire a sex lawyer who understands these concepts to achieve the best outcome in your
- [Residency Requirements for Registered Sex Offenders](https://defendingabuse.com/residency-requirements-for-registered-sex-offenders/) - Sex offender registries in every state impose residency restrictions prohibiting registered sex offenders from living in certain area. These typically include by schools, parks, bus stops and daycares. A federal Court in Colorado recently overturned a city’s residency restriction because it did not allow registered sex offenders to reintegrate into society, contrary to state law.
- [Hiring “Trial Attorneys” for Criminal Sexual Conduct Cases](https://defendingabuse.com/hiring-trial-attorneys-for-criminal-sexual-conduct-cases/) - Smith Blythe, PC is skilled in the practice area of criminal sexual conduct law, including trial. In the experience of defending these types of crimes, knowledge of the trial process, and how trials are conducted, is also gained. In each case of criminal sexual conduct the facts are unique and require the upmost attention from
- [Shaken Baby Syndrome](https://defendingabuse.com/shaken-baby-syndrome/) - Many allegations of serious child abuse can include a diagnosis of shaken baby syndrome (SBS), or abusive head trauma (AHT). SBS is often diagnosed on the basis of three key symptoms known as the "triad": retinal hemorrhages, brain bleeding (hematomas), and brain swelling. Many times, the presence of these three symptoms (or even just one
- [Termination of Parental Rights Cases by CPS in Michigan](https://defendingabuse.com/termination-of-parental-rights-cases-by-cps-in-michigan/) - Facing allegations of child abuse from Child Protective Services, commonly referred to as CPS, is always a difficult time for families. When the accused believes the allegations are false or exaggerated, this is especially true and it is very difficult for many people to maintain a good attitude about having to answer to CPS. In
- [Attorneys from The Law Offices of Shannon M. Smith, P.C. to Attend National Child Abuse Defense Conference in Las Vegas in October](https://defendingabuse.com/attorneys-from-the-law-offices-of-shannon-m-smith-p-c-to-attend-national-child-abuse-defense-conference-in-las-vegas-in-october/) - Comment 6 to Rule 1.1 of the Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct (MRPC) provides that: "To maintain the requisite knowledge and skill, a lawyer should engage in continuing study and education." Although CLE participation is not a mandatory requirement in Michigan, The Law Offices of Shannon M. Smith, P.C. believes that CLE participation and study
- [Michigan First Degree Child Abuse](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-first-degree-child-abuse/) - In Michigan, child abuse is classified into four different degrees, in accordance with MCL 750.136b. First degree child abuse is the most serious of the four different degrees. Michigan law states that, "a person is guilty of child abuse in the first-degree if the person knowingly or intentionally causes serious physical or serious mental harm
- [Monroe County Woman Makes False Allegation](https://defendingabuse.com/monroe-county-woman-makes-false-allegation/) - An 18 year-old woman from Monroe County is now facing a possible charge of filing a false police report after she falsely claimed she was abducted in Bedford Township on August 7, 2014. Hayley Turner, was first reported to have been abducted while heading home from a Monroe County video store on August 7, 2014.
- [Macomb County Man to be Sentenced for CSC](https://defendingabuse.com/macomb-county-man-to-be-sentenced-for-csc/) - In July of 2013, new light was shed on Michigan Rule of Evidence 804 by an opinion released by the Michigan Supreme Court. InPeople v. Stanley Duncan and Vita Duncan, a case dealing with allegations of the sexual assault of two children at an unlicensed daycare, the Court ruled that a child witness might be
- [Washtenaw County Sentences Man to 15 Years for Child Abuse](https://defendingabuse.com/washtenaw-county-sentences-man-to-15-years-for-child-abuse/) - This month, a 20-year-old Ypsilanti man was sentenced to life in prison for killing his four-month-old daughter in October of 2013. The murder of the young child stemmed from child abuse. In addition to the murder charge, he was also charged with first-degree child abuse. In Michigan, first-degree child abuse entails knowingly or intentionally causing
- [Brian Williams — a Victim of a False Memory](https://defendingabuse.com/brian-williams-a-victim-of-a-false-memory/) - Within the past few weeks, NBC news anchor Brian Williams has been in the spotlight of media attention, not because of his anchoring skills, but because of a story he told about himself. In 2003, Williams was in Iraq and riding in a helicopter when the helicopter in front of the one in which he
- [Exonerations in 2014](https://defendingabuse.com/exonerations-in-2014/) - In the past year, stories of criminal exonerations were scattered throughout the news media and became a hot topic. This is because of the shockingly high number of exonerations that took place in the United States. In 2014 alone, there were 125 exonerations based on DNA and non-DNA, as compared to 2013 in which there
- [Federal Criminal Defense -- Bond](https://defendingabuse.com/federal-criminal-defense-bond/) - When a person is arrested and charged with a federal crime, it is important to hire the best federal criminal defense lawyer you can find. Hiring the best federal lawyer can make the difference between being stuck in jail during the pendency of the case, or being allowed bond. When a person is arrested, judicial officers (a judge or magistrate)
- [Innocent Until Proven Guilty](https://defendingabuse.com/blog-post-title-four-rp3rb/) - It all begins with an idea.
- [The Cost to Defend a Michigan Criminal Sexual Conduct Case](https://defendingabuse.com/blog-post-title-three-kse4h/) - It all begins with an idea.
- [MI Criminal Sexual Conduct Lawyers – A Firm Focused on Sex Crimes](https://defendingabuse.com/blog-post-title-two-pjysz/) - It all begins with an idea.
- [The Top 10 Reasons to Hire the Law Offices of Shannon M. Smith](https://defendingabuse.com/blog-post-title-one-z5ss6/) - It all begins with an idea.
- [Pre-trial DNA Testing — An Obvious “Must” for Criminal Sexual Conduct Cases](https://defendingabuse.com/pre-trial-dna-testing-an-obvious-must-for-criminal-sexual-conduct-cases/) - The Innocence Project has a wonderful blog that posts stories about people who have been exonerated through DNA evidence. Many of the stories involve people who were convicted of criminal sexual conduct and have spent years in prison as a result. The story of Terrill Swift is particularly sad, however, as the DNA testing performed at the time
- [DNA Evidence is Not Necessary to Convict](https://defendingabuse.com/dna-evidence-is-not-necessary-to-convict/) - Many times, clients are perplexed by how little evidence the police rely on in criminal sexual conduct cases. How much evidence is enough to convict someone of a sex crime? Is DNA evidence required? Unfortunately, in Michigan, if a person or child is making allegations, their words alone will be enough. Because of television shows and stories we
- [Talking to the Police Versus Remaining Silent](https://defendingabuse.com/talking-to-the-police-versus-remaining-silent/) - The police have called to discuss allegations of criminal sexual conduct. If the suspect has done nothing wrong, is it okay to go talk to the police? Will it help to talk to the police to get the investigation dropped? Some law firms believe it is NEVER advisable for any suspect to talk to the
- [DNA Evidence is Not Necessary to Convict](https://defendingabuse.com/dna-evidence-is-not-necessary-to-convict-1/) - Many times, clients are perplexed by how little evidence the police rely on in criminal sexual conduct cases. How much evidence is enough to convict someone of a sex crime? Is DNA evidence required? Unfortunately, in Michigan, if a person or child is making allegations, their words alone will be enough. Because of television shows and stories we
- [The Difference Between 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct](https://defendingabuse.com/the-difference-between-1st-2nd-3rd-and-4th-degree-criminal-sexual-conduct/) - Frequently Asked Question Q. What is the difference between first degree criminal sexual conduct, second degree criminal sexual conduct, third degree criminal sexual conduct and fourth degree criminal sexual conduct? A. This post is intended to simplify the difference between each charge. If you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to call. While this may seem
- [Penalties for the Various Degrees of Criminal Sexual Conduct](https://defendingabuse.com/penalties-for-the-various-degrees-of-criminal-sexual-conduct/) - Frequently Asked Question Q. What are the different penalties between first degree criminal sexual conduct, second degree criminal sexual conduct, third degree criminal sexual conduct and fourth degree criminal sexual conduct? A. First degree criminal sexual conduct: Up to life in prison, many times a 25 mandatory minimum sentence to prison. Electronic lifetime monitoring is also
- [The Age of Consent](https://defendingabuse.com/the-age-of-consent/) - As a lawyer who defends people accused of sex crimes, I am frequently asked, “What is the age of consent in Michigan?” The age of consent is 16. In order to consent to sexual activity a person must be 16. There are other circumstances that can make sexual activity between certain individuals illegal. For example, it is illegal
- [Advice to Teachers](https://defendingabuse.com/advice-to-teachers/) - After representing several teachers accused of having sexual relationships with their students, I have discovered some important similarities among my cases. These factors have all been involved, whether the teacher was innocent or actually did have a sexual relationship. The following advice is what I tell all of my friends who are teachers. They are lessons learned
- [Reform Needed to the Michigan Sex Offender Registry](https://defendingabuse.com/reform-needed-to-the-michigan-sex-offender-registry/) - The Michigan Sex Offender Registry is in need of major reform. Low risk, non-dangerous registrants should be removed from the registry. The registrants I’m describing include mostly juvenile and teenage offenders who engaged in consensual sex. Michigan has the second highest number of registrants on its sex offender registry based on population in the United
- [Michigan Statute of Limitations for Sex Crimes](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-statute-of-limitations-for-sex-crimes/) - Shannon M. Smith is a sex lawyer who defends clients accused of criminal sexual conduct and other Michigan sex crimes. Most cases handled by Shannon Smith involve children and many of them are not brought forward until years after the alleged event. It is important to know how long the state has to bring charges for sex
- [Shannon Smith — Chosen as Top 40 Under 40 by National Trial Lawyers Association](https://defendingabuse.com/shannon-smith-chosen-as-top-40-under-40-by-national-trial-lawyers-association/) - hannon Smith was recently chosen by the National Trial Lawyers Association to be a member of the “Top 40 Under 40.” The National Trial Lawyers Association is a professional organization that recognizes the top trial lawyers throughout the country. Membership into The Top 40 under 40 is by invitation only and is extended exclusively to
- [A False Sense of Security Created by the Michigan Sex Offender Registry](https://defendingabuse.com/a-false-sense-of-security-created-by-the-michigan-sex-offender-registry/) - As a Michigan sex crimes attorney, I find myself having to hold back when people around me discuss the Michigan sex offender registry. A friend of mine was showing me an app for her phone the other day – one that quickly allows her to identify all of the sex offenders nearby. She assured me
- [Innocent Until Proven Guilty](https://defendingabuse.com/innocent-until-proven-guilty/) - In every criminal trial, the defendant is considered “innocent until proven guilty.” We are lawyers who represent clients accused of Michigan sex crimes. At the Law Offices of Shannon Smith, we don’t believe that “innocent until proven guilty” is a fair way to think about the presumption of innocence. We believe the correct way to say
- [Potential Change to Sex Laws for Michigan Teachers](https://defendingabuse.com/potential-change-to-sex-laws-for-michigan-teachers/) - Shannon Smith and Gail Benson have defended multiple Michigan teachers accused of sex crimes for having sex with students. The current state of the law prohibits teachers from having sex with students who are less than 18 years of age. Since the age of consent in Michigan is 16, many people do not realize that
- [Trial Lawyers College](https://defendingabuse.com/trial-lawyers-college/) - On October 1, 2011, Shannon Smith officially graduated from the Trial Lawyers College. Shannon was one of 55 lawyers chosen to spend 24 days in Dubois, Wyoming, on Gerry Spence’s ranch training with some of the best lawyers in the country. Not every lawyer is accepted to the program. Applicants must write essays and have significant
- [Shannon Smith — A Rising Star Superlawyer](https://defendingabuse.com/shannon-smith-a-rising-star-superlawyer/) - During September, 2011, Shannon Smith was named a “Rising Star” by Superlawyers. To be selected as a Rising Star by Superlawyers, other Michigan lawyers had to nominate and rate Shannon Smith. Shannon Smith has spent the last several years focused on representing clients accused of sex crimes in Michigan. She has dedicated her practice so
- [Tape Recording Confessions of Sex Crimes Should be Mandatory](https://defendingabuse.com/tape-recording-confessions-of-sex-crimes-should-be-mandatory/) - Cases of criminal sexual conduct and sex crimes sometimes involve clients that the police claim confessed and admitted the crime. It is hard for people who are not used to dealing with the police and their advanced interrogation techniques to understand how a person could confess to a crime they did not commit. For this reason, this
- [Hire the Right Lawyer for Criminal Sexual Conduct Cases](https://defendingabuse.com/hire-the-right-lawyer-for-criminal-sexual-conduct-cases/) - Hiring the right criminal sexual conduct lawyer to represent you is critical. Not only is your life and liberty on the line, but the stress of a trial can be overwhelming. Sadly, attorneys are not all created equally. There are attorneys out there who will take your money, tell you they know what they are doing, not
- [Stages of Criminal Proceedings](https://defendingabuse.com/stages-of-criminal-proceedings/) - Smith Blythe, PC represents clients accused of criminal sexual conduct and child abuse allegations. As such, we have extensive experience assisting our clients through the legal system. This article is designed to provide background information about what you should expect if you or a loved one is charged with a crime. The Investigation After an
- [False Allegations of Sex Crimes](https://defendingabuse.com/false-allegations-of-sex-crimes/) - An Example of a False Allegation James Grissom, a former resident of Port Huron, was released from prison in 2012 after serving 9 years of a 15-35 year sentence for two counts of criminal sexual conduct against Sara Ylen. Grissom started to appeal his conviction in 2003 and continued his efforts until he was released.
- [Falsely Accused and Released from Prison 24 Years Later](https://defendingabuse.com/falsely-accused-and-released-from-prison-24-years-later/) - In 1982 and 1983, Steven Phillips, a Texas resident, was accused of several sex crimes, including rape. Phillips was tried and convicted at two separate trials on eyewitness testimony alone, even though his wife, through her testimony, tried to convince the jury that he did not participate in the crimes. Phillips eventually plead guilty to
- [Innocent or Not — Hire an Attorney](https://defendingabuse.com/innocent-or-not-hire-an-attorney/) - At a time in your life when you are being accused of a crime of criminal sexual conduct, whether it was a crime that you committed or did not commit, it is important to have the best defense attorney to represent you and your case. Smith Blythe, PC is dedicated in providing you with your
- [Sexual Abuse of Those with Special Needs](https://defendingabuse.com/sexual-abuse-of-those-with-special-needs/) - Smith Blythe, PC are experienced in defending those that are accused of criminal sexual conduct, or with sexual abuse within a family unit. These cases can be sensitive in nature, but they are serious matters that need to be handled by an experienced defense team. It is important to have an experienced defense team in
- [Using Polygraph and Lie Detector Tests in Criminal Sexual Conduct Cases](https://defendingabuse.com/using-polygraph-and-lie-detector-tests-in-criminal-sexual-conduct-cases/) - Smith Blythe, PC represents clients who are accused of crimes of criminal sexual conduct and child abuse cases. Even if you are innocent of the crime you are being accused of, you may be asked to take a lie detector test, also known as a polygraph test, to determine if you are telling the truth
- [Retaining a Criminal Sexual Conduct Lawyer](https://defendingabuse.com/retaining-a-criminal-sexual-conduct-lawyer/) - Smith Blythe, PC is a private law firm located in Michigan, Michigan that is focused on defending crimes of criminal sexual conduct and child abuse. Being accused of a crime of criminal sexual conduct can bring emotional hardships and can be frightening to those accused and to the members of his or her family. Finding
- [Crimes Involving Child Porn](https://defendingabuse.com/crimes-involving-child-porn/) - Smith Blythe, PC focuses on defending clients who are accused of crimes of criminal sexual conduct, including allegations of possession of child pornography. When you are being accused of a criminal sexual conduct crime it is important to have an experienced defense team focused in the particular area of criminal sexual conduct to represent you
- [Criminal Sexual Conduct and Positions of Authority](https://defendingabuse.com/criminal-sexual-conduct-and-positions-of-authority/) - If you are accused of a criminal sexual conduct crime, it is important to have the best defense team. Smith Blythe, PC has represented many clients charged for a wide variety of sex crimes. Some cases are charged based on the age of the complainant alone. Other cases can be charged based on the relationship
- [Videos of Statements of Child Witnesses in Criminal Sexual Conduct Cases](https://defendingabuse.com/videos-of-statements-of-child-witnesses-in-criminal-sexual-conduct-cases/) - In Michigan criminal sexual conduct cases, an issue that frequently arises for attorneys is obtaining a copy of the child’s video recorded statement. Michigan law provides that witnesses who are under 16 years of age, 16 or over but having a developmental disability and vulnerable adults are to be interviewed according to the Michigan Forensic
- [Remaining Silent When Accused of Criminal Sexual Conduct](https://defendingabuse.com/remaining-silent-when-accused-of-criminal-sexual-conduct/) - Smith Blythe, PC represents clients who are accused of criminal sexual conduct. Typically, in these cases, law enforcement seeks to obtain a statement from the accused individual. Many times, our office will represent clients during the investigation phase into a criminal sexual conduct case. In some situations, it is better advice to not have the
- [False Accusations of Criminal Sexual Conduct](https://defendingabuse.com/false-accusations-of-criminal-sexual-conduct/) - Many of the cases at Smith Blythe, PC involve clients who have been falsely accused of criminal sexual conduct by other people. In these cases, our clients frequently wonder if they can sue their accusers after suffering financial loss defending the allegations, loss to their reputation and frequently, loss of their jobs, children, homes and
- [Second Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct](https://defendingabuse.com/second-degree-criminal-sexual-conduct/) - In Michigan, there are four different degrees of criminal sexual conduct. Each degree of criminal sexual conduct has various elements that must be alleged in order to be prosecuted with a crime. The focus of this particular article is the 2nd degree, if you would like to know more of the criminal sexual conduct in the first degree
- [First Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct | What You Need To Know](https://defendingabuse.com/first-degree-criminal-sexual-conduct-what-you-need-to-know/) - In Michigan, criminal sexual conduct allegations are separated into four different degrees. Each degree of criminal sexual conduct has its own elements that must be alleged in order for a charge of criminal sexual conduct to be brought against you. The main difference between each of the four degrees hinges on whether there is an allegation involving
- [Accusations Against Children](https://defendingabuse.com/accusations-against-children/) - Minors and Juveniles Accused of CSC Just as adults, minors can also be accused of criminal sexual conduct. This most often happens against other minors in places such as at school, on school trips, or in locker rooms. Sometimes, minors do not realize that these acts are wrong or do not fully understand their consequences.
- [Accusations Against Prominent Members of the Community](https://defendingabuse.com/accusations-against-prominent-members-of-the-community/) - Allegations of criminal sexual conduct can be brought against anyone, even important members of society and professionals. It does not matter what your status is, charges of criminal sexual conduct are serious crimes that involve high stakes, not only for one’s reputation but also the punishment attached. Recently, General Jeffery Sinclair of the U.S. Army
- [False Accusations of Rape on College Campuses](https://defendingabuse.com/false-accusations-of-rape-on-college-campuses/) - Frequently students on college campuses will find themselves facing charges of criminal sexual conduct. New federal regulations have caused campuses to become hyper vigilant in their efforts to protect students. Students are not only potentially be punished in the legal system but also often times they face consequences by the college or university. Often times,
- [Rapes on Men](https://defendingabuse.com/rapes-on-men/) - A common misconception is that all perpetrators of criminal sexual conduct, particularly rape or sexual assault, are male. Until 2012, the definition of rape as given by the FBI was strictly directed towards female victims; however, the definition no longer includes the specific sex of the victim because rape allegations against women are arising more
- [Criminal Sexual Conduct Allegations Against Teachers](https://defendingabuse.com/criminal-sexual-conduct-allegations-against-teachers/) - When a teacher is accused of having a sexual relationship with a student, or other types of sexual encounters with a student, it is considered to be a crime of criminal sexual conduct. Misconceptions arise out of these cases, especially when the teacher is an attractive female, and suggest that these situations may be treated
- [False Accusations of Criminal Sexual Conduct](https://defendingabuse.com/false-accusations-of-criminal-sexual-conduct-1/) - False accusations of criminal sexual conduct are all too common in today’s world. Shannon Smith has helped numerous people defend false allegations, both before charges and after charges were issued. These cases have high stakes — the punishments often include potential prison time and registration as a sex offender. For more information about our specific
- [Allegations Involving Children](https://defendingabuse.com/allegations-involving-children/) - When an adult is accused of a crime of criminal sexual conduct against a minor, action needs to be taken against that accusation immediately. Criminal sexual conduct matters involving children are very serious issues that can carry high levels of punishment. Sometimes, however, the evidence against the accused is minimal and involves the word of
- [False Memories of Child Abuse and Sex Crimes](https://defendingabuse.com/false-memories-of-child-abuse-and-sex-crimes/) - The McMartin Preschool case was the longest criminal case to ever take place in the United States. The McMartins, and several staff members, were accused of sexually abusing children at the preschool they ran in Manhattan Beach, California. The allegations began with one child and eventually erupted to bring 321 counts of sexual abuse of
- [Sex Offender Registry Concerns](https://defendingabuse.com/sex-offender-registry-concerns/) - When charged with a crime of criminal sexual conduct, many people become frightened and unaware of the punishments that could come along with the charge. There could be restrictions on where you can chose to live or work, along with the burden of being on the list of registered sex offenders. Also, some could face
- [When Parents Become Involved in Crimes of Criminal Sexual Conduct](https://defendingabuse.com/when-parents-become-involved-in-crimes-of-criminal-sexual-conduct/) - It comes as no surprise when a child or teen is charged with a crime of criminal sexual conduct that the parent of the minor would want to become involved with the investigation. However, there is a line that can be crossed where a parent can become too involved in the allegations, and the consequences
- [Accusations of Statutory Rape](https://defendingabuse.com/accusations-of-statutory-rape/) - In most jurisdictions, a statutory rape occurs when there is unlawful intercourse engaged in with a person under the age of consent. The sexual activities involved can be consensual, and do not have to be against the under aged person’s will. The statute, in the particular state where the unlawful sexual activity occurs, defines the
- [Third Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct](https://defendingabuse.com/third-degree-criminal-sexual-conduct/) - In Michigan, there are four separate degrees of criminal sexual conduct, which is commonly referred to as CSC. Each degree of CSC has several elements that must be met in order for an accused person to be prosecuted for a crime of criminal sexual conduct. Third degree criminal sexual conduct is based on allegations of
- [Corpus Delecti and Criminal Sexual Conduct](https://defendingabuse.com/corpus-delecti-and-criminal-sexual-conduct/) - In cases of criminal sexual conduct there must be evidence that a crime was committed other than a statement by the accused. This means that there has to be an alleged victim claiming something happened, an eyewitness who saw something happened, physical evidence such as DNA, etc. A complainant’s word alone is sufficient evidence as long as
- [False Confessions and the Reid Technique](https://defendingabuse.com/false-confessions-and-the-reid-technique/) - The Reid technique is an interrogation technique used by many police agencies throughout Michigan. Child Protective Services workers are also being trained in this technique. This method of interrogation is beneficial to law enforcement because it is used to elicit confessions. This technique has been widely criticized, however, by defense attorneys, psychology experts and other
- [Miranda Warnings in Criminal Cases](https://defendingabuse.com/miranda-warnings-in-criminal-cases/) - When being detained for a crime of criminal sexual conduct, CSC, or an allegation of child abuse in Michigan, the accused must be read their Miranda warnings prior to a police interrogation. A defendant in custody may not be subjected to police interrogation unless, prior to such interrogation, he has been provided with Miranda warnings,
- [Michigan Sex Crime Appeals and Post-Conviction Motions](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-sex-crime-appeals-and-post-conviction-motions/) - If you, or someone you know has been convicted of Criminal Sexual Conduct, CSC, or any other Michigan sex crime, it is important to hire an experienced appellate attorney to challenge an improper conviction and/or sentence. The attorneys at Smith Blythe, PC are particularly equipped to handle appeals and post-conviction motions in these types of
- [College Students Facing Allegations of Criminal Sexual Conduct](https://defendingabuse.com/college-students-facing-allegations-of-criminal-sexual-conduct/) - Criminal sexual conduct accusations have become particularly prevalent on college campuses. Some schools are beginning to make their own policies about alleged sexual assaults between students. Recently, a proposed bill in California, SB-967, called for students to change the way they handle the issue of consent during sexual encounters. The bill, which is simply ridiculous,
- [Michigan Supreme Court Grants Argument on First Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct Case](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-supreme-court-grants-argument-on-first-degree-criminal-sexual-conduct-case/) - On June 13, 2014, the Michigan Supreme Court issued an Order in the case of People of the State of Michigan v Randall Scott Overton, directing the Clerk of the Court to schedule oral argument on whether the Court should grant the defendant’s application or take other action. The Smith Blythe, PC represents Mr. Overton
- [Use of a Computer to Solicit a Minor](https://defendingabuse.com/use-of-a-computer-to-solicit-a-minor/) - In the age of technology, more and more sex crimes happen through the Internet, such as the downloading of child pornography or the solicitation of a minor for sexual purposes. These types of issues are still considered to be sex crimes, even though they happen via the Internet. In January 2014, a family doctor was
- [Michigan Teachers Accused of Criminal Sexual Conduct](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-teachers-accused-of-criminal-sexual-conduct/) - In Michigan, teachers accused of having sexual relationships with students will face charges of criminal sexual conduct by the prosecution. There are four degrees of criminal sexual conduct charges in Michigan. Depending on the type of relationship, and the age of the student, a teacher can be charged with CSC 1 or CSC 3, both which involve
- [Sexual Assault Allegations on College Campuses](https://defendingabuse.com/sexual-assault-allegations-on-college-campuses/) - In a recent editorial from The Detroit News, titled “Regret: isn’t the same as rape” speculation is raised about the statistics of rape and sexual assault on college campuses released in a report from the Obama administration in January. The statistics stated that one out of every five college women are sexually assaulted while in
- [Changes for Michigan’s CSC Jury Instructions](https://defendingabuse.com/changes-for-michigans-csc-jury-instructions/) - Recently, Michigan’s Committee on Model Jury Instructions amended the existing first-degree criminal sexual jury instruction and added a new jury instruction to be used in certain cases where the defendant is charged with first-degree criminal sexual conduct. These changes apply to cases where the defendant is charged under MCL 750.520b(2)(b). This section of the statute applies
- [Child Protective Services Cases](https://defendingabuse.com/child-protective-services-cases/) - On May 30, 2015, Shannon Smith from Smith Blythe, PC, PC presented at the Young Lawyers Section 2015 Summit Conference in Detroit, Michigan. Shannon presented the topic “What Every Attorney Needs to Know about Child Protective Services.” After providing background and general information about Michigan Child Protective Services cases, Shannon also included some specific “how
- [“Sorry” For a False Accusation](https://defendingabuse.com/sorry-for-a-false-accusation/) - In April 2014, former child actor, Michael Egan, spoke of sexual abuse allegations against a group of four Hollywood executives that occurred in Hawaii when he was a teenager in the 1990s. Egan hired two attorneys to represent him in a civil suit against the Hollywood executives under a Hawaiian law that allowed alleged victims
- [Obtaining Counseling or Medical Records in Criminal Sexual Conduct Cases](https://defendingabuse.com/obtaining-counseling-or-medical-records-in-criminal-sexual-conduct-cases/) - In Michigan, the law provides that the defense may have access to counseling or medical records in certain situations. Ordinarily, these are privileged and confidential records that are not discoverable. Michigan Court rule 6.201(C)(2) states as follows: If a defendant demonstrates a good-faith belief, grounded in articulable fact, that there is a reasonable probability that
- [The Importance of Speaking to an Attorney Before Criminal Charges are Brought](https://defendingabuse.com/the-importance-of-speaking-to-an-attorney-before-criminal-charges-are-brought/) - In January 2015, University of Michigan fraternities and sororities took a trip north of Ann Arbor to two popular ski resorts in northern Michigan. During their stay at Treetops Resort and Boyne Mountain, the students reeked havoc through the rooms and halls and caused, as the price stands now, over $130,000 in damage to both
- [False Memories and Suggestibility: How They Can Affect You](https://defendingabuse.com/false-memories-and-suggestibility-how-they-can-affect-you/) - Recently, NBC News anchor Brian Williams came under criticism for claiming to be on board a helicopter that was shot down. The problem is that Mr. Williams was not on a helicopter that was shot down. Mr. Williams has blamed his version of events on “the fog of memory,” but many people do not believe
- [Case Law Update – Michigan Sex Offender Registry](https://defendingabuse.com/case-law-update-michigan-sex-offender-registry/) - On February 19, 2015, the Michigan Court of Appeals issued a published opinion in the matter of People v Evans Costner (Docket No. 316806). In Costner, the Court of Appeals held that an individual who is even 1 day past the 4-year or 48 month eligibility limit described under MCL 28.728c(14)(a)(ii) (the “Romeo and Juliet” provision of the Michigan Sex
- [Social Media and Jury Contact](https://defendingabuse.com/social-media-and-jury-contact/) - Recently in Oakland County, a defendant was tried on drug charges. During deliberations, the girlfriend of the defendant sent a friend request via Facebook to one of the jurors. The juror immediately informed the judge and other jury members of the request. It is not known at this time whether the girlfriend or defendant sent
- [Second-Degree Child Abuse in Michigan](https://defendingabuse.com/second-degree-child-abuse-in-michigan/) - In Michigan, second-degree child abuse is a felony punishable by up to ten (10) years in prison, and for a second or subsequent offense, is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Accusations of child abuse are serious allegations that can arise is several circumstances. To be guilty of second-degree child abuse in Michigan, the prosecutor
- [False Confessions Happen in Sex Cases](https://defendingabuse.com/false-confessions-happen-in-sex-cases/) - Just this month, a judge granted a new trial for a man convicted of murder and rape in Kalkaska, Michigan. Jamie Peterson, convicted of the first-degree murder and rape of an elderly Kalkaska resident, Geraldine Montgomery, in 1998, was facing a life sentence without parole. The crazy thing is Mr. Peterson confessed to all of
- [Man Pleads Guilty to CSC 1 and CSC 3 in Wayne County](https://defendingabuse.com/man-pleads-guilty-to-csc-1-and-csc-3-in-wayne-county/) - On August 8, 2014, a man, from Salem Township, pled guilty to one count of first degree criminal sexual conduct and one count of third degree criminal sexual conduct in Wayne County as part of a plea agreement. The plea agreement was a result of a mistrial, and it dropped further counts of CSC. Robert
- [Sexting Prevention for Parents in Michigan](https://defendingabuse.com/sexting-prevention-for-parents-in-michigan/) - As parents, our main concern is always our children and their protection. However, with the technology available to our children, especially teens and young teens, it’s not always easy to look out for them, or monitor their activities. According to a recent article, children spend on average of 7 hours and 38 minutes a day
- [Macomb County Criminal Sexual Conduct Case](https://defendingabuse.com/macomb-county-criminal-sexual-conduct-case/) - In June, a Mount Clemens high school teacher, who recently resigned, was charged for having sex with one of her 17-year-old male students. Former teacher, Rachael Smith, faces three charges of third-degree criminal sexual conduct and one count of furnishing alcohol to a minor. News reports indicate the following, which may or not be true. In May,
- [Michigan Criminal Sexual Conduct and Parole](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-criminal-sexual-conduct-and-parole/) - An article was released this month in the Washington Post, which can be found here, that features some information on parole boards and a specific case from Michigan. Michigan law, specifically MCL 791.233, which governs parole, states: “A prisoner shall not be given liberty on parole until the board has reasonable assurance, after consideration of all of the
- [DNA in Criminal Sexual Conduct Cases](https://defendingabuse.com/dna-in-criminal-sexual-conduct-cases/) - Polls and other surveys have proven that when there is DNA evidence involved in a case that juries are more likely than not to convict a defendant. According to researchers at several large universities, jurors find DNA evidence to be 95% accurate, and extremely persuasive. Although juries may be more likely to convict a defendant
- [Medical Child Abuse in Michigan](https://defendingabuse.com/medical-child-abuse-in-michigan/) - In the 1980s and 1990s, especially after the McMartin day care child sexual abuse trials, parents were overzealous to suspect that their young children had been sexually abused, as were prosecutors to bring charges of child molestation. Recently, the same panic ensued over shaken baby syndrome, now known as Abusive Head Trauma, and caused the
- [Michigan Assistant Principal Charged with Second Degree CSC](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-assistant-principal-charged-with-second-degree-csc/) - In January, an assistant principal at a middle school was accused of touching a female student’s chest. An internal investigation by the school district took place immediately after the incident. During the investigation, the male assistant principal, Kevin Doerfler, was still working for the school district; however, he was working in the school district’s main
- [Drugs in Exchange for Sex According to Cosby Deposition](https://defendingabuse.com/drugs-in-exchange-for-sex-according-to-cosby-deposition/) - Bill Cosby is a household name, and one that many are familiar with, however, now anytime his name is mentioned accusations of rape seem to be attached to it. In the past year, around 40 women, including some big names, like former model Janice Dickenson, have accused Cosby of drugging them and raping them. However,
- [Sex on Beach Lands Couple on Sex Offender Registry](https://defendingabuse.com/sex-on-beach-lands-couple-on-sex-offender-registry/) - A year ago, 20-year-old Elissa Alaverez and 40-year-old Jose Caballero, engaged in public sex on Florida’s Bradenton Beach. Caballero claimed that he was passed out and Alaverez was trying to wake him up by “dancing” on him. However, a video that an onlooker took of the two showed what looked like the the two engaging
- [Deputy Sentenced for Sexual Assault](https://defendingabuse.com/deputy-sentenced-for-sexual-assault/) - At 27 years old, a former jail guard for the St. Clair County Jail will have to register on the Michigan sex offender registry for life and spend the next ten months in county jail. In July 2014, Gemma Cowperwaithe worked at the St. Clair County Jail and a female inmate caught her eye. The
- [Out of State Teen Considered Michigan Sex Offender for Consensual Sex](https://defendingabuse.com/out-of-state-teen-considered-michigan-sex-offender-for-consensual-sex/) - A 19 year-old male from out of state recently appeared before a Michigan court for having consensual sex with a 14 year-old minor female from Michigan. The young man found the girl on the phone app “Hot or Not” and was under the assumption she was 17 years old. The two met once in Michigan
- [Changing Consent](https://defendingabuse.com/changing-consent/) - The “yes means yes,” or affirmative consent standard has already made its way through college codes of conduct in the U.S., and even Michigan. But is affirmative consent the next big thing to be changed throughout the American legal system? It seems that the idea of affirmative consent has been sneaking its way in to
- [Woman Explains False Allegation](https://defendingabuse.com/woman-explains-false-allegation/) - Recently, Smith Blythe, PC came across the story of Quentin Carter. Carter was incarcerated for 17 years following a false conviction of a sexual assault involving a ten-year-old neighbor. There was speculation that another man, Aurelias Marshall, who lived with the neighbor and her mother, forced the girl into making a false accusation against Carter to get
- [Statements by Children](https://defendingabuse.com/statements-by-children/) - On June 18, 2015, the United States Supreme Court issued its Opinion in the case of Ohio v. Clark. In its Opinion, the United States Supreme Court held that the introduction of statements by a child’s teachers regarding an allegation of child abuse do not violate a defendant’s Sixth Amendment Confrontation rights when the primary purpose
- [Protest Supporting Father Wrongfully Accused of Child Abuse](https://defendingabuse.com/protest-supporting-father-wrongfully-accused-of-child-abuse/) - Early in 2014, it was just another day for a family and their 11-week-old baby, until the baby slipped off the father’s lap and he caught her by the face to stop her from falling on the ground. The family acted quickly, as any family would, and drove the baby to C.S. Mott’s Children’s Hospital
- [Digital Dating, Teenagers & the Law](https://defendingabuse.com/digital-dating-teenagers-amp-the-law/) - Over the past few years, the concept of dating has gone more digital than ever before. People access more online dating, online “hook up” sites, and other ways to meet new people than in previous years. If you search for “dating apps” in the App Store on the iPhone, there are over 3,000 results of
- [Parental Alienation Syndrome](https://defendingabuse.com/parental-alienation-syndrome/) - Parental Alienation Syndrome is most apparent when a child becomes brainwashed as a result of his or her parent’s conscious, or unconscious, efforts to turn the child against the other parent, and in combination with the child’s own attempts to cut the other parent down. In extreme cases, a child usually won’t want to communicate
- [Changes to Michigan’s HYTA Law](https://defendingabuse.com/changes-to-michigans-hyta-law/) - Background for HYTA The Holmes Youthful Trainee Act, or HYTA, is a program for youth offenders charged with misdemeanors and certain felonies. Oftentimes young people get charged with an offense by making a mistake or uneducated decision and it later affects their ability to get jobs or get into college. HYTA helps to eliminate the criminal records of
- [How to Obtain Court Records](https://defendingabuse.com/how-to-obtain-court-records/) - Background Information Regarding Court Records Most criminal convictions and criminal court records are public records, with a few exceptions. For example, if your case was disposed of under the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act under MCL 762.11, et. seq., (commonly referred to as “HYTA” or “TYA”), your court file and records would not be public records. By law,
- [Michigan CPS Cases and Child Protective Services Investigations](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-cps-cases-and-child-protective-services-investigations/) - Michigan Child Protective Services Cases Child Protective Services investigations and cases tend to be very overwhelming. Many parents call us when CPS has contacted them, especially when the case involves sexual abuse allegations or physical abuse allegations. CPS cases and investigations are complicated and sometimes difficult to understand. Below is an explanation of what you can expect
- [How to Obtain Your Criminal Record](https://defendingabuse.com/how-to-obtain-your-criminal-record/) - Background Information Having full knowledge of your criminal record can be very important as your criminal record can not only impact many aspects of your life, but also your eligibility to expunge an offense or your ability to be removed from the sex offender registry. Even if you previously went to court, it is possible
- [Lifetime Registration for Juveniles Unconstitutional](https://defendingabuse.com/lifetime-registration-for-juveniles-unconstitutional/) - In late December 2014, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court held that lifetime sex offender registration for juvenile offenders was unconstitutional because it violated the due process rights of juveniles. Lifetime sex offender registration on a private registry is currently a part of Michigan law for juveniles who are 14-16 years old and convicted of a Tier
- [Snapchat is Dangerous!](https://defendingabuse.com/snapchat-is-dangerous/) - The smartphone app “Snapchat” is a popular application that teens and adults alike download to their smartphones daily. With billions of pictures sent on a daily basis, Snapchat has become part of the everyday lives of smart phone users. However, most users are not aware of how the application really works or the dangers that
- [Teenagers Need to Know Their Rights](https://defendingabuse.com/teenagers-need-to-know-their-rights/) - The New York Times recently reported that an estimated 37% of teenagers that went through an interrogation falsely confessed to criminal acts. It further reported that 31% of teenagers during those interrogations made incriminating statements against themselves. One thing was shocking about this study, none of the teenagers involved in the research invoked their constitutional
- [False Allegation Leads to CSC Acquittal](https://defendingabuse.com/false-allegation-leads-to-csc-acquittal/) - During a preliminary examination, a 13-year-old girl testified that a 45-year-old man that lived with her had sex with her multiple times while her mother was away at work. The girl stated that the man discussed sex with her before and the first time he had sex with her she was 12. She gave a
- [First Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct Case Dropped](https://defendingabuse.com/first-degree-criminal-sexual-conduct-case-dropped/) - In late 2013, a teenage male was accused of sexually assaulting a female relative and was subsequently charged with first degree criminal sexual conduct and two other felonies related to the assault. At a preliminary examination that took place last year, the teenager, Justin Hannahs, was charged with a second count of first-degree criminal sexual conduct. Hannahs
- [Electronic Monitoring for Criminal Sexual Conduct Convictions](https://defendingabuse.com/electronic-monitoring-for-criminal-sexual-conduct-convictions/) - In 2006, the Michigan Legislature added the lifetime electronic monitoring requirement for convictions of criminal sexual conduct, among other revisions, to Michigan law. According to the Michigan Senate Fiscal Agency, the rationale for the amendments were a result of nationwide efforts to increase penalties and post incarceration supervision of sex offenders convicted of crimes involving children
- [Child Shaming as Child Abuse in Michigan](https://defendingabuse.com/child-shaming-as-child-abuse-in-michigan/) - We’ve seen the videos and pictures on Facebook and other social media sites…parents running over video games with lawn mowers, dads wearing the same revealing outfits as their daughters, parents cutting their child’s hair, and even messy rooms. “Child shaming” has become a popular form of punishment for parents. It’s easy to snap a picture
- [Consent in Criminal Sexual Conduct Cases in Michigan](https://defendingabuse.com/consent-in-criminal-sexual-conduct-cases-in-michigan/) - Today an interesting article came out discussing the concept of “affirmative consent” in the Wall Street Journal. Affirmative consent is where the accused must show that the accuser gave affirmative consent — and that the accuser’s actions during sex are not enough. A Judge in Tennessee found that this way of thinking shifts the burden to the
- [False Report of Rape](https://defendingabuse.com/false-report-of-rape/) - In today’s political climate, one of the major movements that has influenced how people look at sexual assault is certainly the “Me Too” movement. Our office does not deny that sex abuse happens or the horrors of cases involving true allegations of criminal sexual conduct in Michigan. However, there are cases of false claims, and our office
- [First Degree Child Abuse Case: A Success](https://defendingabuse.com/first-degree-child-abuse-case-a-success/) - Incorrect diagnoses of child abuse, or non-accidental trauma, are devastating for parents and children. Often, medical determinations made by a sole child abuse physician is sufficient for bringing out first degree child abuse charges and petitions to terminate parental rights. Consider for example, the story of one of our clients, who noticed bruising on her daughter’s
- [Child Abuse Pediatricians and False Accusations](https://defendingabuse.com/child-abuse-pediatricians-and-false-accusations/) - Recently, a case from Wayne County is garnering national attention after a child abuse pediatrician incorrectly diagnosed a child as having been abused, when in fact an alternate medical explanation for the child’s condition existed. After the children were removed from their parents for months, the Court concluded the child was not abused and reunited the family. The
- [The Degrees of Criminal Sexual Conduct in Michigan](https://defendingabuse.com/the-degrees-of-criminal-sexual-conduct-in-michigan/) - Most of the cases we handle at Smith Blythe are charges of criminal sexual conduct. In Michigan, all cases involving sex crimes, including rape, statutory rape, molestation and sexual abuse, are charged under the criminal sexual conduct statutes. The easiest way to break down the charges for people who are learning about this for the first time is
- [Victory on a First Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct Case](https://defendingabuse.com/victory-on-a-first-degree-criminal-sexual-conduct-case/) - A few weeks ago, we represented a client charged with first degree criminal sexual conduct in a small county close to Traverse City. First degree criminal sexual conduct is a felony punishable by up to life in prison. A conviction would not only require prison, but also registration as a sex offender for life. The stakes could not have been
- [Effective Criminal Sexual Conduct Lawyer](https://defendingabuse.com/effective-criminal-sexual-conduct-lawyer/) - When hiring a criminal sexual conduct lawyer it is important to hire the best lawyer you can find. A lawyer who has the time, skill and ability to focus on your case and get you the best results. Unfortunately, this does not always happen and many who claim to be a criminal sexual conduct lawyer, let their clients down. Unfortunately,
- [Expert Testimony Regarding Michigan Sex Crimes](https://defendingabuse.com/expert-testimony-regarding-michigan-sex-crimes/) - At Smith Lehman, we fight for people accused of Michigan sex crimes. We handle both adult and juvenile cases and have strategies that will help if you are facing this type of a case. Allegations of Michigan sex crimes including criminal sexual conduct and child sexual abuse often require expert testimony – both from the State and
- [Michigan Federal Criminal Defense — Risk of Flight Issues](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-federal-criminal-defense-risk-of-flight-issues/) - In a Michigan federal criminal case, the federal court will assess whether the accused is a flight risk. A Michigan federal criminal lawyer will be able to analyze the individual circumstances to determine if being seen a flight risk should be of concern. Pretrial detention is only appropriate in specific limited circumstances, including a case that involves
- [Withdrawing a Plea in a Sex Case](https://defendingabuse.com/withdrawing-a-plea-in-a-sex-case/) - In criminal sexual conduct cases defense attorneys sometimes advise a client to take a plea offer without giving the client accurate advice about taking the plea. Each client, no matter if they are advised by a public defender or retained counsel, should be aware of what he or she is pleading guilty to, especially in
- [Congressional Authority — Michigan Federal Lawyers](https://defendingabuse.com/congressional-authority-michigan-federal-lawyers/) - As Michigan federal defense lawyers, we take on some of the most difficult and unique battles. Next week, our office will be arguing whether Congress had authority to enact the female genital mutilation statute. The position by our federal defense lawyers, is that it did not. It is our position, that Congress lacked authority to enact 18 U.S.C. §
- [HYTA and Teenage Sex Crimes](https://defendingabuse.com/hyta-and-teenage-sex-crimes/) - In June, a 19 year-old male from out of state appeared before a Michigan Court for having consensual sex with a 14-year-old minor female from Michigan. He was charged with third-degree criminal sexual conduct, MCL 750.520d, for having sex with a minor, even though she lied about her age. Eventually, the teen pleaded guilty to a
- [Sex Offender Recidivism](https://defendingabuse.com/sex-offender-recidivism/) - Crimes against children are serious offenses and Michigan has a legitimate interest in increasing child safety and decreasing recidivism of sex offenders. Criminal sexual conduct and sexual abuse are of the highest concern for Michigan lawmakers and courts. The Michigan court system has displayed a reliance on the high risk for recidivism posed by sex offenders or
- [A Sexting Story Ripped From the Headlines](https://defendingabuse.com/a-sexting-story-ripped-from-the-headlines/) - I don’t have children nearing high school age yet, but I’m already worried. High School changed in the 2010s and high school today is not the high school we – the parents of 2020s high school students – went to. I know that from my practice. We see cases, serious cases, involving high school –
- [“They Must Be Believed”](https://defendingabuse.com/they-must-be-believed/) - If you were alive, kicking, and even a tiny bit aware during the 1980’s the odds are pretty high you vividly remember the Tigers cruising to a World Series, standing in line to see Ghostbusters or Back to the Future, and/or watching the ending of St. Elsewhere. What you have probably forgotten – as it
- [Avoiding the “Backstairs Justice System”](https://defendingabuse.com/avoiding-the-backstairs-justice-system/) - We have a lawyer friend in New England who coined the term “Backstairs Justice System” a few years ago. It’s a pretty highly descriptive term to those of us who have been in and out of courtrooms defending serious criminal cases over the years. For those who haven’t, it’s this: the Backstairs Justice System is
- [Strategies for Defending Child Criminal Sexual Conduct Cases](https://defendingabuse.com/strategies-for-defending-child-criminal-sexual-conduct-cases/) - Strategies for Lawyers to Consider When Defending Child Criminal Sexual Conduct Cases Cases involving allegations of criminal sexual conduct by children are some of the hardest cases to defend. The stakes could not be higher; the accused could not be more frightened; and much of the rest of the world will repeatedly and rhetorically ask,
- [Confusion about the 4 Degrees of Criminal Sexual Conduct in Michigan](https://defendingabuse.com/confusion-about-the-4-degrees-of-criminal-sexual-conduct-in-michigan/) - In Michigan there are four degrees of criminal sexual conduct that most sexual offenses fall under. Criminal sexual conduct cases are routinely referred to as CSC cases. So a fourth degree criminal sexual conduct for example, may be referred to as a CSC 4. It is not unusual for a person facing multiple counts to be charged
- [Happy New Year! A Review of Smith Blythe 2019 Jury Trials](https://defendingabuse.com/happy-new-year-a-review-of-smith-blythe-2019-jury-trials/) - Back in January, the trial attorneys at Smith Blythe got together to reflect on 2019. Over lunch, we talked about what worked well for us, what led to success in our cases, and of course, where we can improve. We ended up talking a lot about the jury trials we had in 2019 and the
- [The Top 10 Things to Do and Know When Your Teenager or College Student is Accused of Criminal Sexual Conduct](https://defendingabuse.com/the-top-10-things-to-do-and-know-when-your-teenager-or-college-student-is-accused-of-criminal-sexual-conduct/) - Having children is stressful. There is no doubt. As a mother of four, I constantly sit back and reflect on what it’s like to have a 6, 7, 9 and 10 year old. But my friends all say the same thing…”Bigger kids mean bigger problems.” And I see that in my work. Too often. Recently
- [A Few Comments About Comments](https://defendingabuse.com/a-few-comments-about-comments/) - We get comments about more than a few of the things we write about. After a few a pattern emerges. In the last few weeks we published blog posts about Roger Clemens and his trial(s) for perjury and lying to Congress and the movie Richard Jewell. We’ve also posted more than few Facebook posts about some
- [Let’s Talk About Richard Jewell](https://defendingabuse.com/lets-talk-about-richard-jewell/) - As a criminal defense attorney, I’m compelled to write about Richard Jewell. A movie that deeply explores the criminal justice system despite the fact no charges are brought, no arrests are made, there is no trial, no courtroom histrionics, no suspenseful appeals. Instead, there’s a man ‘just’ suspected of a horrific crime – the Atlanta Centennial
- [CDAM Fall Conference 2019](https://defendingabuse.com/cdam-fall-conference-2019/) - Earlier this month, our team at Smith Blythe trekked up north to attend the Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan Fall Conference at Boyne Mountain. Because I was a part of the committee who selected and invited our keynote speakers, our whole team, including our support staff, came for the conference. The keynote speakers were fantastic.
- [The Story Behind a Dismissal](https://defendingabuse.com/the-story-behind-a-dismissal/) - I will never forget the panic in Barbara’s voice on the phone. Her husband, Larry Orr, had just been arrested at their home. A few hours later, he went before a magistrate to be arraigned. This is the first court proceeding in a criminal case — where Larry would find out the charges lodged against
- [Anatomy of a Murder Acquittal](https://defendingabuse.com/anatomy-of-a-murder-acquittal/) - Smith Blythe’s Mariell Lehman just secured a not guilty verdict for her client, Curtis Brown. That’s a rare thing in a case where there was no question our client pulled the trigger. Rarer still in a county where the police commissioner announced Curtis’ arrest with, “I can’t emphasize enough that when a crime of this
- [Vouching Testimony in Child Criminal Sexual Conduct Trials](https://defendingabuse.com/vouching-testimony-in-child-criminal-sexual-conduct-trials/) - Sometimes watching trials of other defense lawyers can feel like watching nails on a chalkboard. This is particularly true when the prosecution plays dirty and the defense attorney does not catch on. Unfortunately, this happens all too often. You see, in a trial, no witness is allowed to comment on the credibility or lack of
- [Convicted by the media long before your day in court](https://defendingabuse.com/convicted-by-the-media-long-before-your-day-in-court/) - In the Court of public opinion and the media there are no rules of evidence, no burdens of proof, no cross examination – no questions and no answers. In emotionally charged cases such as the ones that we defend at Smith Lehman, P.C. our clients are often convicted in the media long before they ever have
- [Should I take a polygraph to prove my innocence?](https://defendingabuse.com/should-i-take-a-polygraph-to-prove-my-innocence/) - Every week we get at least one phone call with the same question – “I have been accused of a crime, the police have asked me to take a polygraph….should I take the test to prove I’m innocent?” When it comes to police polygraphs there is not a hard and fast rule that people should follow
- [“What it really means to be a defense lawyer”: Amanda Knox Interviews Smith Blythe attorneys about the Larry Nassar case](https://defendingabuse.com/what-it-really-means-to-be-a-defense-lawyer-amanda-knox-interviews-smith-blythe-attorneys-about-the-larry-nassar-case/) - In January of 2018, Larry Nassar was sentenced to 175 years in prison after almost three decades as a clinical physician and doctor for the USA Gymnastics national team. He pled guilty to both charges of possession of child pornography and, more notably, 10 counts of first degree criminal sexual conduct. His attorneys at the time included Smith
- [Shannon Smith Receives the G. Terry Jackson Friend of the Constitution Award for Criminal Defense](https://defendingabuse.com/shannon-smith-receives-the-g-terry-jackson-friend-of-the-constitution-award-for-criminal-defense/) - Smith Blythe founding partner Shannon Smith has been awarded the G. Terry Jackson Friend of the Constitution Award by her peers in criminal defense at the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, she did not receive the award at the 2020 GACDL Winter Seminar, but rather received the beautiful trophy in her
- [Should I take my child to an interview at CARE House or a Child Advocacy Center (CAC)?](https://defendingabuse.com/should-i-take-my-child-to-an-interview-at-care-house-or-a-child-advocacy-center-cac/) - In Michigan, when a child makes an allegation of criminal sexual conduct, law enforcement and Child Protective Services should set up a forensic interview for the alleged victim at a child advocacy center. Child advocacy centers, including CARE House and Kids-TALK, are the physical centers where interviews take place. During the interviews, the law allows
- [The Movie Cuties in a World of Sexting, Social Media and Fitting In](https://defendingabuse.com/the-movie-cuties-in-a-world-of-sexting-social-media-and-fitting-in/) - Over the last week, my Facebook feed was flooded with controversy posts about the Netflix movie Cuties alongside hashtags of #savethechildren and #cancelnetflix. For anyone who has not heard of the movie, the story is about an 11-year old girl who becomes a part of a group of girls who eventually participate in a dance competition. They learn dance
- [What To Do If You’re Under Investigation For Child Pornography in Michigan](https://defendingabuse.com/what-to-do-if-youre-under-investigation-for-child-pornography-in-michigan/) - Michigan takes sexual crimes seriously, and the consequences are even more severe when it comes to child pornography. Child pornography involves the production, receipt, possession, and or distribution of sexually depicted images of children under the age of 18 – all of which is illegal. If you’ve been caught with or accused of child pornography, the
- [COVID’s Impact on Bail Bonds in Michigan](https://defendingabuse.com/covids-impact-on-bail-bonds-in-michigan/) - Due to the types of cases that we defend we often find ourselves fighting for our clients to either stay out of jail, or to get out of jail, at arraignment. It is incredibly difficult to convince a judge to release our clients especially if they had been previously represented by another attorney who was
- [What to Do When a Minor Accuses You of Child Abuse in Michigan?](https://defendingabuse.com/what-to-do-when-a-minor-accuses-you-of-child-abuse-in-michigan/) - Child abuse allegations need to be taken seriously — especially when those allegations are coming from the child themselves. Of course, some child abuse accusations could be a result of an accident or a misunderstanding. In other situations, it may be a part of a larger scheme to discredit you. No matter the circumstance, our team at
- [What to Do When a Minor Accuses You of Sexual Assault in Michigan](https://defendingabuse.com/what-to-do-when-a-minor-accuses-you-of-sexual-assault-in-michigan/) - The stigma of being accused of sexual assault by a minor not only effects you and your loved ones, but it can tarnish your reputation and ruin your career, as well. Unfortunately, many people dealing with these types of accusations have been wrongfully accused, and some are even wrongfully convicted. The sad truth is that these kinds
- [The Catchall Exception to the Sex Offender Registry](https://defendingabuse.com/the-catchall-exception-to-the-sex-offender-registry/) - Sometimes when people are charged with sex crimes, they are able to resolve the case with a non-sex offense and an agreement with the prosecution that the accused does not have to register. It is important for any practitioner to be aware that even taking a non-sex plea can require a registry if the complainant was
- [What To Do If You’ve Been Falsely Accused of Rape in Michigan](https://defendingabuse.com/what-to-do-if-youve-been-falsely-accused-of-rape-in-michigan/) - False rape accusations are devastating. The stigma and trauma that come with such accusations is something no one should have to deal with. And if convicted in Michigan, the accused person not only faces jail time and fines, but also will be required to register as a sex offender on Michigan’s public Sex offender Registry. Sadly,
- [‘Outcry’ and Smith Blythe – An Upcoming Series](https://defendingabuse.com/outcry-and-smith-blythe-an-upcoming-series/) - On April 3rd Showtime is launching a five-part documentary, Outcry, about the 2013 arrest and conviction of a 17-year-old Texas high school football star, Gregory Kelley, on charges of sexually assaulting a young boy. Every week, right after each episode, we will publish our thoughts, insights, and much more as we follow this case every step of the way .
- [The Criminal Justice System in the Time of Coronavirus](https://defendingabuse.com/the-criminal-justice-system-in-the-time-of-coronavirus/) - With all the business shutdowns, millions working from home, millions suddenly unemployed, professional sports suspended or cancelled, and delays to so many ‘business as usual’ ‘taken for granted’ day-to-day little things – like getting a cup of coffee – have changed, we need to discuss the criminal justice system. Well, the impact of the steps
- [The Pros and Cons of Holding a Preliminary Exam](https://defendingabuse.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-holding-a-preliminary-exam/) - When a person is charged with a felony in Michigan, one of the first hearings that takes place is the preliminary exam when the case is in district court. At the preliminary exam, the prosecution has to show probable cause to support that (1) a crime was committed, and (2) that the accused person committed
- [Why We Do Not Take Every Case](https://defendingabuse.com/why-we-do-not-take-every-case/) - At Smith Lehman, we believe that every person who is accused has an absolute constitutional right to a lawyer. We also believe that it is critical the accused has the right lawyer for them, and quite frankly, sometimes we are not it. We simply cannot take all of the cases that call our office. If we did,
- [Title IX Cases Involving Sexual Assault or Sexual Harassment](https://defendingabuse.com/title-ix-cases-involving-sexual-assault-or-sexual-harassment/) - Title IX cases (also referred to as Title Nine cases in this blog) are the school disciplinary proceedings that take place against a student accused of sexual assault or sexual harassment. These types of complaints are very common, particularly among college-age students. Federal Title IX law provides federal funding to universities for having programs to
- [Tethers During a Criminal Case](https://defendingabuse.com/tethers-during-a-criminal-case/) - During the pendency of a criminal case, and while many defendants are on bond, they may be asked to wear a GPS tether to monitor their whereabouts. The most important thing is to establish the conditions that pretrial services expects from the person wearing the tether. It is equally as important that the person on
- [Tips for the Family to Follow During a Criminal Case](https://defendingabuse.com/tips-for-the-family-to-follow-during-a-criminal-case/) - Many of our clients come from good families who have good intentions and want to help their loved one prove their innocence in a case. We do have some important information that family members who want to be helpful should know so that they do not get in the way of the case or create additional evidence
- [Miranda Warnings – When Do the Police Have to Read Me My Rights?](https://defendingabuse.com/miranda-warnings-when-do-the-police-have-to-read-me-my-rights/) - We have all seen TV shows where a police officer or detective is arresting a suspect and reads the person being arrested their rights: You have the right to remain silent…anything you do say may be used against you…You have the right to an attorney…If you cannot afford an attorney one will be appointed to
- [HYTA in Criminal Sexual Conduct Cases](https://defendingabuse.com/hyta-in-criminal-sexual-conduct-cases/) - When our firm represents young people accused of sex crimes, Shannon Smith is often asked if there is any way to resolve a case with no criminal record. Michigan does have a law called the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (HYTA) that allows for young people who plead guilty to certain offenses to be free of
- [How is Bond Determined in Michigan?](https://defendingabuse.com/how-is-bond-determined-in-michigan/) - When a person is charged with a crime, the first court hearing that will happen is an arraignment. At the arraignment, the accused is provided a copy of the complaint and learns the specific laws they are alleged to have broken. The Court will make a determination at the initial arraignment regarding bond. To determine
- [Tips to Be a Great Fact Witness in a Trial](https://defendingabuse.com/tips-to-be-a-great-fact-witness-in-a-trial/) - At trial in Michigan criminal sexual conduct cases, the accused person does not have to present a defense or any witnesses on their behalf. While many other lawyers do not present evidence or call witnesses at trial, our office most often does. We find that although we do not need to prove anything in the case,
- [Hiring a Female Lawyer for a Criminal Sexual Conduct Case](https://defendingabuse.com/hiring-a-female-lawyer-for-a-criminal-sexual-conduct-case/) - Recently, there has been some attention in the media about R. Kelly having a female lawyer as part of the legal team representing him in his New York federal trial. Many of the articles discuss whether the choice to have a woman was a strategic move on Kelly’s part, similar to other high-profile clients like
- [“But There is No Evidence!” The Lack of Evidence Required for Criminal Sexual Conduct Cases](https://defendingabuse.com/but-there-is-no-evidence-the-lack-of-evidence-required-for-criminal-sexual-conduct-cases/) - At Smith Lehman, many of the cases we handle are “he said — she said” situations. You would think these cases are simple – one person makes a claim with absolutely no physical or corroborating evidence – no DNA, no fingerprints, no eyewitness corroboration, absolutely nothing to back up their allegations. The only thing a falsely
- [Defending Cases with an Incapacitated or Physically Helpless Complainant](https://defendingabuse.com/defending-cases-with-an-incapacitated-or-physically-helpless-complainant/) - In our Michigan practice, a number of our criminal sexual conduct defense cases are date-rape type allegations where both the accused and the complaining witness have engaged in a night of drinking. In some cases, the complainant will say they don’t remember a thing and believe they may have been sexually assaulted. In other cases, the complainant
- [How Long Does a Michigan Criminal Sexual Conduct Case Take?](https://defendingabuse.com/how-long-does-a-michigan-criminal-sexual-conduct-case-take/) - One common frustration our clients find is the amount of time it takes to get through a case involving criminal sexual conduct. Most people and their close family members become easily annoyed about the amount of time it takes to get through a case as they want to move on with their lives. Whether the
- [SADO: Spotlight: Shannon Smith](https://defendingabuse.com/spotlight-shannon-smith/) - In an interview with the State Appellate Defenders Office, Shannon answered a few questions. Please tell us about your background, where you practice, and how long you have been a criminal defense lawyer. While my practice is in Oakland County, my cases are truly spread across the state. I have been practicing since 2005, however,
- [is 1st Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct A Felony?](https://defendingabuse.com/what-is-1st-degree-criminal-sexual-conduct/) - 1st Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct Explained In Michigan, first degree criminal sexual conduct is a felony punishable by up to life in prison. The crime is defined in Michigan Penal Code 750.520b as non-consensual sexual penetration with someone under the age of 13. This includes sexual intercourse, cunnilingus, fellatio, anal penetration, or any other intrusion
- [Is 2nd Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct A Felony?](https://defendingabuse.com/2nd-degree-criminal-sexual-conduct-explained/) - What is Second Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct? In Michigan, second-degree criminal sexual conduct is defined as sexual penetration with another person when any of the following are true: The accused is 17 years of age or older and the victim is under 13 years of age. The accused is 17 years of age or older
- [3rd Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct Explained](https://defendingabuse.com/3rd-degree-criminal-sexual-conduct-explained/) - 3RD DEGREE CRIMINAL SEXUAL CONDUCT IS A FELONY IN MICHIGAN At Smith Lehman, we see clients most frequently charged with third degree criminal sexual conduct when the complaining witness or the alleged victim is someone who is under the age of 15, but over the age of 13. The crime must involve some kind of
- [4th Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct Explained](https://defendingabuse.com/4th-degree-criminal-sexual-conduct-explained/) - 4th degree criminal sexual conduct is a High Court misdemeanor, which means it\'s also treated like a felony in some circumstances that subjects the person accused to two years in prison and sex offender registry. A fourth degree criminal sexual conduct charge, while two years in prison and High Court misdemeanor doesn\'t sound very serious,
- [Can I Be Charged With A Sex Crime With No Evidence?](https://defendingabuse.com/can-i-be-charged-with-a-sex-crime-with-no-evidence/) - This is a common question that a lot of my clients ask whether they've been charged with a crime or not. And the truth of the matter is that you can be charged with a crime, whether there's physical evidence or not. In fact, most of our cases involve allegations that don't have physical evidence.
- [Statutory Rape Explained](https://defendingabuse.com/statutory-rape-explained/) - Criminal sexual conduct in the third degree is more commonly known as statutory rape, and the situation that we see most often is two young people, usually in high school, who decide to have a consensual sexual encounter. Often one of them is under the age of 16, which is the age of consent in
- [The Dangers of Social Media](https://defendingabuse.com/the-dangers-of-social-media/) - Social media can be a wonderful tool in just your regular everyday life. The unfortunate side of social media is that it allows individuals to hide behind a keyboard or a computer screen or a phone so you don't actually know who you're talking to. We've had a large number of cases and clients walk
- [What is the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (HYTA)?](https://defendingabuse.com/what-is-the-holmes-youthful-trainee-act-hyta/) - The Holmes Youthful Trainee Act, or HYTA, is a Michigan statute that's only available to people who are charged with a crime between the ages of 17 and 24 years old. This statute is especially important in sex crimes cases and in a wonderful option in cases where a client decides that they're going to
- [Defense Mechanism](https://defendingabuse.com/defense-mechanism/) - FOUR YEARS SINCE the curtain fell on the highly publicized trial of disgraced Michigan State University doctor Larry Nassar, Michigan's courts are playing venue to another public court spectacle. This time, the national spotlight is trained on Jennifer and James Crumbley--the parents of the Oxford High School shooter: Much like Nassar, they've become the subjects
- [The Importance of the Johnny Depp vs Amber Heard Trial Verdict](https://defendingabuse.com/the-importance-of-the-johnny-depp-vs-amber-heard-trial-verdict/) - The Johnny Depp vs Amber Heard verdict helped bring light to the harmful effects of false allegations. Men (and women) are falsely accused of sexual assault, criminal sexual conduct, and other heinous crimes each and every day and Johnny Depp’s victory shows that there are severe consequences to pay for making such false claims.
- [Destroying the Presumption of Innocence](https://defendingabuse.com/destroying-the-presumption-of-innocence/) - A few months ago, Shannon represented a client at a retrial on a case that previously resulted in a hung jury. After more than 11 hours of deliberations, it became evident that the case would end in a mistrial once again. Both sides found themselves in a challenging position. The prosecution was unlikely to secure

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- [Home](https://defendingabuse.com/) - Nationally-Recognized Sex Crimes Defense Attorney. For decades, I’ve defended people against the most serious allegations a person can face.
- [Criminal Sexual Conduct Defense](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-criminal-sexual-conduct-lawyer/) - Criminal Sexual Conduct Defense Few accusations carry such stigma and life-altering consequences as being charged with criminal sexual conduct. In Michigan, these charges threaten more than just your freedom; they threaten your reputation, your career, and your family. Once an allegation is made, the system often assumes guilt before the facts are even examined. But
- [Juvenile Criminal Sexual Conduct Defense](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-juvenile-criminal-sexual-conduct-lawyer/) - Juvenile Criminal Sexual Conduct Defense When a juvenile is accused of criminal sexual conduct, the consequences can be just as devastating as if the charges were brought against an adult. What makes these cases especially tragic is that many juvenile criminal sexual conduct charges come from misunderstandings. Unfortunately, once the accusation is made, schools, courts,
- [Sexual Consent and Rape Defense](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-sexual-consent-and-rape-defense/) - Sexual Consent and Rape Defense Being accused of sexual assault or rape is one of the most devastating allegations a person can face. These charges carry not only the threat of years in prison and lifetime sex offender registration, but also a stigma that can destroy reputations, careers, and families before a trial even begins.
- [Sexting Defense](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-sexting-lawyer/) - Sexting Defense In Michigan, sexting may seem like something between consenting teens, but the criminal consequences can be devastating and lifelong. When images or messages involve anyone under 18, even if shared between peers, the law treats it as akin to child pornography. That means severe penalties, including felonies, possible sex offender registration, and criminal
- [Professionals Accused of Sex Crimes](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-professionals-accused-of-sex-crimes/) - Professionals Accused of Sex Crimes If you’re a professional accused of a sex crime in Michigan, you risk not only prison and a criminal record but also the loss of your license, career, and reputation. For doctors, teachers, executives, and others, even an allegation can trigger media scrutiny or employer action. As an experienced criminal
- [Child Sexual Abuse Defense](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-child-abuse-lawyer/) - Child Sexual Abuse Defense There are few accusations more devastating than being accused of sexually abusing a child. Just the words alone can destroy your reputation, strain your family, and change the way people see you. On top of that, the penalties under Michigan law are some of the harshest you can face, including years
- [Child Pornography and Internet Crimes Defense](https://defendingabuse.com/michigan-child-pornography-and-internet-crimes-defense/) - Child Pornography and Internet Crimes Defense Being accused of an internet sex crime, especially child pornography, is one of the most serious situations a person can face. Our office handles these cases in both state and federal court, as they can be charged in either. Even before a case goes to trial, the stigma of
- [Disclaimer](https://defendingabuse.com/disclaimer/) - Disclaimer No Attorney-Client Relationship Created by Use of this Website. Neither your receipt of information from this website, nor your use of this website to contact Shannon Smith Law (hereinafter “the Firm”) or one of its lawyers creates an attorney-client relationship between you and the Firm. You will become a client of the Firm only
- [Sitemap](https://defendingabuse.com/sitemap/) - Sitemap Pages About Shannon Smith Blog Books Child Pornography and Internet Crimes Defense Child Sexual Abuse Defense Contact Criminal Sexual Conduct Defense Development Disclaimer Frequently Asked Questions Home Juvenile Criminal Sexual Conduct Defense Press & Media Professionals Accused of Sex Crimes Results Sexting Defense Sexual Consent and Rape Defense Sitemap Posts ‘Outcry’ and Smith Blythe
- [Contact](https://defendingabuse.com/contact/) - Contact Our Nationally-Recognized Sex Crimes Defense AttorneyJustice Doesn’t Intimidate Me. Neither Does Your Case.Call Now: I’m Ready When You Are.Download Press Kit Send a message: ContactCall Now (248) 636-25952510 S. Telegraph Suite L290, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 “If you have been charged with any type of sex crime, Shannon Smith is one of the most
- [Results](https://defendingabuse.com/results/) - Proven ResultsOur criminal sexual conduct lawyers have been securing favorable outcomes for our clients for over 16 years now. We love adding new success stories – and yours could be next. If you are being accused of criminal sexual conduct, rape, molestation, or any other sex crime in Michigan – send our office a message
- [Books](https://defendingabuse.com/books/) - Books by Shannon SmithComing Soon Shannon is working on a series of books that will give an inside look at high-stakes criminal defense, her courtroom experiences, and the lessons she’s learned defending the most challenging cases. Stay in the loop and be the first to know when they’re released. Get alerts for Shannon’s upcoming book
- [Press & Media](https://defendingabuse.com/press-media/) - Shannon Smithin the Press Real cases. National coverage. Expert commentary.Call Now: I’m Ready When You Are. Want updates on Shannon’s books and media appearances? NameNameEmailEmailSubmit FEATURED PRESSNational & Major Media View article “A Rare Question for Michigan Jurors: Do a Son’s Crimes Merit His Mother’s Conviction?” View article “Who Is Shannon Smith? Larry Nassar’s Attorney
- [Frequently Asked Questions](https://defendingabuse.com/frequently-asked-questions-2/) - Frequently Asked QuestionsSex Crimes Defense Attorney: Ready to Fight for YouCriminal Sexual Conduct Defense QuestionsJuvenile Criminal Sexual Conduct Defense QuestionsSexual Consent and Rape Defense QuestionsSexting Defense QuestionsProfessionals Accused of Sex Crimes QuestionsChild Sexual Abuse Defense QuestionsChild Pornography and Internet Crimes Defense QuestionsCall Now: I’m Ready When You Are. Criminal Sexual Conduct Defense Questions What should
- [About Shannon Smith](https://defendingabuse.com/about-shannon-smith/) - Shannon SmithNationally-Recognized Sex Crimes Defense Attorney Shannon Smith has built a career on a singular philosophy: every person, no matter what they are accused of, deserves a fierce legal defense. Even when the public rushes to judgment or when the system seems stacked against her clients, Shannon doesn’t hesitate. Known for fearlessly defending clients in
- [Blog](https://defendingabuse.com/blog/) - By Shannon Smith In Articles Destroying the Presumption of Innocence A few months ago, Shannon represented a client at a retrial on a case that previously resulted in a hung… Read More Search our articles Search AllArticles The Importance of the Johnny Depp vs Amber Heard Trial VerdictArticlesThe Importance of the Johnny Depp vs Amber
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