Livonia Drug Charge Defense Attorney William Maze
28 Years of Aggressive Criminal Defense in the 16th District Court
A drug charge in Livonia, Michigan can derail your future. Even a simple possession conviction creates a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, professional licensing, and educational opportunities. Attorney William Maze brings 28 years of criminal defense experience to drug cases in the 16th District Court, fighting to protect your rights and keep your record clean.
Protecting First-Time Offenders Under MCL 333.7411
Michigan law provides a powerful tool for first-time drug offenders through MCL 333.7411, commonly known as a "7411 deferral." This statute allows eligible defendants to avoid a public criminal conviction by successfully completing probation. Upon completion, the charges are dismissed and no public record of the case is retained.
Important: 7411 status is not automatic—it requires a judge's approval, and some courts grant it more readily than others. Attorney Maze understands the nuances of how the 16th District Court handles these requests and works aggressively to secure deferred status for qualifying clients.
Felony Drug Charges Require Immediate Action
Felony drug possession charges in Livonia begin with arraignment and preliminary examination in the 16th District Court before Judge James J. Jolly or Judge Sean P. Kavanagh. If probable cause is established, the case proceeds to Wayne County Circuit Court for trial.
These proceedings demand an attorney who understands both the district court process and the potential consequences at the circuit court level. With over one hundred jury trials and extensive experience handling felony preliminary examinations, William Maze provides the aggressive representation that serious drug charges require.
Constitutional Challenges to Search and Seizure
Many drug cases hinge on how police obtained the evidence. The Fourth Amendment protects citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures, and violations of these constitutional rights can result in suppression of evidence—often leading to dismissal of charges.
Attorney Maze scrutinizes every aspect of police conduct, from the initial traffic stop to the search of your person, vehicle, or home. His willingness to file and argue suppression motions sets him apart from attorneys who simply negotiate pleas without challenging the prosecution's evidence.
Experienced Defense Across All Drug Offenses
Whether you face charges for possession of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, prescription medications, or controlled substance analogues, William Maze provides knowledgeable defense representation. His practice encompasses the full spectrum of drug offenses including:
- Possession & Use
- Possession with Intent to Deliver
- Delivery & Manufacturing
- Maintaining a Drug House
- Drug Paraphernalia
- Prescription Fraud