Legal Question in Criminal Law in Michigan

What is the typical punishment for keying a car? It is a first offense.


Asked on 2/20/11, 11:16 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

William Morrison Action Defense Center

Max $500 fine + probation, court costs, and restitution. It's a 90 day misdemeanor but first offenders don't go to jail.

You should be more concerned about keeping this off your record. An attorney helps.

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Answered on 2/20/11, 6:32 pm
Neil O'Brien Eaton County Special Assistant Prosecuting Attorney

The first attorney's answer is incomplete. He only listed the lowest level MDOP crime. Depending on the amount of damage, the charge could be a felony (if damage of $1,000 or more) that carries up to 5 yrs prison and/or $10,000 fine. Or, if the damage is $200-$999, the charge is a misdemeanor and the max punishment is 1 yr jail and/or $2,000 fine.

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Answered on 2/22/11, 1:35 pm


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