Recent Victories
Our Services
Criminal defense representation across Southwest Michigan
What Our Clients Say About Us
Your Future Is Worth Fighting For - Call Now!
Don't face criminal charges alone. Our experienced criminal defense team provides compassionate, strategic representation to protect your rights and preserve your freedom.
Proven Advocacy:
Markou | Montague | Levine
Defense
The efforts of our three attorneys are backed up by a full support team. When you choose Markou | Montague | Levine Defense, you’ll have access to a group of talented legal professionals who all know your case and are working toward the same outcome.
Anastase Markou
30+ Years of Criminal Defense
Sarissa K. Montague
18+ Years of Criminal Defense
Randall S. Levine
45+ Years of Criminal Defense
Our journey began in 1987, and since then, we have evolved to protect our clients' future, securing the best possible outcomes. We prioritize: custom strategies for every case, clear communication, and personalized attention.
Areas We Serve
Based in Kalamazoo, our criminal defense team serves clients throughout Southwest Michigan:
Primary Counties:
- Kalamazoo County
- Van Buren County
- St. Joseph County
- Calhoun County
Statewide Services:
- Driver's License Restoration (throughout Michigan)
- Professional Licensing Defense (throughout Michigan)
- Appeals/6.500 Motions (throughout Michigan)
Additional Areas:
- Berrien County
- Cass County
- Allegan County
- and surrounding communities
You Deserve Powerful Defenders
When you're facing criminal charges, every moment matters. Don't wait to get the experienced legal representation you need. Our team is ready to listen to your story, explain your options, and start building your defense immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Criminal Defense
If you're arrested in Michigan, stay calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Request an attorney immediately and avoid answering questions without legal representation present. Don't discuss your case with other inmates or anyone except your lawyer. Do not talk about anything related to your case over the jail phones or through the jail tablets. Contact a family member to help arrange bail if necessary, and remember that anything you say can be used against you in court.
In Kalamazoo County, bond amounts are typically set within 24 hours of arrest. The magistrate considers the severity of charges, your criminal history, ties to the community, and flight risk. You can pay the full bond amount to the court, use a bail bondsman (typically 10% of the bond amount), or request a personal recognizance bond if eligible. Our attorneys can assist with bond hearings and reductions.
Misdemeanors in Michigan are punishable by up to one year in county jail and fines up to $1,000 (though some carry higher penalties). Felonies carry potential prison sentences ranging from one year to life, with substantial fines. Felony convictions result in loss of voting rights (restored after incarceration completion), restrictions on gun ownership, and can impact employment, housing, and professional licensing opportunities.
Yes, we handle driver's license restoration cases throughout Michigan. The process involves filing a petition with the Secretary of State, providing required documentation, and appearing for a hearing. We help clients prepare substance abuse evaluations, gather supporting letters, and present compelling cases to the hearing officer. Multiple revocations require different strategies and documentation.
If you receive a complaint from LARA (Licensing and Regulatory Affairs), contact an attorney immediately so that you can respond promptly. Don't try to handle the investigation alone - even minor missteps can jeopardize your professional license. We represent professionals statewide in licensing matters, including disciplinary hearings, compliance agreements, and license restoration petitions. Time is often critical in these cases.
Criminal case timelines vary based on complexity and court schedules. Simple misdemeanor cases may resolve in 2 to 4 months, while serious felony cases can take 6 to 18 months or longer. Factors affecting the timeline include plea negotiations, motion practice, discovery requests, witness availability, and court backlogs. We keep clients informed about expected timelines and work efficiently to resolve cases as favorably and quickly as possible.