Kent County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Being charged with a crime is one of the most stressful experiences you can face. By working with a Kent County criminal defense lawyer, you can build a defense strategy that helps you move forward after a criminal charge.

The Bartish Law Firm, PLLC: Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer Who Is Ready to Defend Your Rights

At The Bartish Law Firm, PLLC, we have over a decade of experience. Our team is comprised of a husband and wife with experience as an Army JAG, where we handled serious felony cases and even federal crimes. We make it a priority to be available throughout your case, from when you are first arrested through sentencing. We would rather you contact us at midnight than have you worried about your case.

Criminal Offenses We Help Clients Defend Against at The Bartish Law Firm, PLLC

Kent County has a crime rate of 23.83 per 1,000 residents, with 2996 crimes against persons from January to June of 2026. From 2013 to 2023, the Grand Rapids Police Department made 39,745 arrests. At The Bartish Law Firm, PLLC, we defend both misdemeanors and felonies, including federal crimes. Some examples of crimes we handle include:

• OWI
• Drug offenses
• Domestic violence
• Assault and battery
• Violent crimes

In Kent County, many criminal cases are handled through the 61st District Court at 180 Ottawa Ave. NW.

Why Your Criminal Defense Strategy Matters

Having a strong criminal defense strategy can minimize the impact of a criminal charge on your future. Often, outcomes such as dismissed charges, reduced charges, or reduced penalties are achieved through a detailed defense strategy.

Every criminal case involves unique circumstances, which impact what defense strategy is most effective. If you hire a criminal defense lawyer, they can determine the right criminal defense strategy, such as:

• A lack of sufficient evidence. To be convicted of a crime, the prosecution must have sufficient evidence to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. A Kent County criminal defense attorney can evaluate the prosecution’s evidence and identify any weaknesses or gaps that can be used to argue that there is insufficient evidence. 
• Claiming self-defense. You can claim self-defense if you used force against another person because you were defending yourself or another person. Criminal defense laws require you to prove that there was an immediate threat to your safety and that the level of force used was justifiable.
• An alibi. An alibi involves evidence that proves that you were elsewhere when and where the crime occurred. This defense can use evidence such as witness statements, surveillance footage, or time-stamped receipts.
• A lack of intent. For many criminal offenses, you must have acted with the intent to commit a crime or cause harm. If you accidentally or unknowingly committed a crime, you may avoid a conviction.
• Constitutional violations. Law enforcement must follow strict requirements to avoid violating your constitutional rights. If you can prove that your rights were violated, such as through an illegal search and seizure or an arrest without probable cause, this can strengthen your defense.

Learn How a Kent County Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help

If you are ready to begin your criminal defense, The Bartish Law Firm, PLLC, offers 120-minute free consultations. Contact us to speak with a Kent County criminal defense lawyer about your case.