Top Best Criminal Appeals Lawyers | 33388 Available

I specialize in complex felony defense, particularly criminal sexual conduct cases. I have successfully tried numerous cases before judges and juries in both Michigan and Kentucky as a prosecutor and defense attorney. I am responsive and compassionate.I am a Kentucky native, but now reside in Saugatuck, Allegan County. I am married with two children, a dog Oscar, and two very friendly barn cats. In my free time (ha!) I love to poke around antique shops and plan trips to see our family.

I have owned my own firm since 1999, and have had a passion for criminal defense since I passed the bar. My previous experience working at the Michigan Court of Appeals combines with my decades of legal experience and allows me to offer my clients aggressive, passionate, and top-notch representation. I am active in the legal community as a member of my local bar associations and through participation as a mentor in the Ingham County Bar Association's Sixty-Minute mentoring program. I have also appeared as a guest commentator on Court TV's Best Defense.

Former federal prosecutor and Army JAG lawyer. Now criminal defense attorney.. Tessa K. Muir brings over a decade of experience as a former federal prosecutor and Army JAG attorney. As a federal prosecutor in the Western District of Michigan, she served as the lead attorney in over 150 criminal cases and Sixth Circuit appeals. She worked closely with and trained dozens of law enforcement agencies, including the Michigan State Police, FBI, DEA, ATF, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), police departments, and sheriffs’ offices. She earned commendations for her work as a trial attorney from the FBI, HSI, and the State Bar of Michigan. Since 2015, she has been selected by fellow attorneys and federal judges in the Western District of Michigan as an instructor at the Hillman Trial Advocacy Program — the district’s premier trial practice program.. As an Army JAG attorney, Ms. Muir worked inside the military’s highest security prison, prosecuted military courts-martial, and advised servicemembers and commanders on Army disciplinary procedures and separation boards.. Ms. Muir has also served as an in-house corporate attorney at a large international tech company, where she led discreet internal fraud investigations and defended the company against lawsuits worldwide.. Ms. Muir’s combined expertise in federal and state courts, the Army justice system, federal prisons, and corporate America is unrivaled.. CRIMINAL DEFENSE. From the first stages of an investigation through the final stages of appeal, Ms. Muir knows from the inside out how the system works. As a criminal defense attorney, Ms. Muir uses her expertise as a former federal prosecutor to help her clients understand the investigative process, find weaknesses in the case, and build a strong defense.Ms. Muir specializes in:. • Federal criminal cases nationwide;• Federal sentencing guidelines;• White collar crime (including tax evasion, bank fraud, and healthcare fraud);• Internal corporate fraud investigations;• Criminal sexual conduct (CSC) investigations;• Title IX college sex assault cases;• Juvenile offenses;• Violent crime and firearms offenses; and• Drug trafficking and drug possession cases.. Ms. Muir is a persuasive courtroom advocate. She has succeeded at both the state and federal level in achieving the complete dismissal of cases after filing Fourth Amendment motions to challenge traffic stops, search warrants, and inventory searches. She has convinced prosecutors at both the state and federal level to agree with her position on motions ranging from reversing improper sentencing conditions to excluding evidence of other acts by the defendant at trial. She has persuaded prosecutors’ offices throughout Michigan not to charge clients under investigation for serious sex offenses. She used the government’s own expert witness to defeat a federal supervised release violation alleging illegal drug use. She succeeded in a motion to reverse a federal magistrate judge’s decision to deny bond to a client pending trial in a serious RICO conspiracy case. She achieved early release from a halfway house for a client suffering a mental breakdown. These are just some examples of the results she has been able to obtain for her clients.Ms. Muir’s clients routinely comment that she is responsive, empathetic, professional, and effective. Read Ms. Muir’s client reviews below.. INVESTIGATIONS, ACCUSATIONS, AND WITNESSES. Ms. Muir regularly advises people who are being investigated, accused, or called as a witness in criminal cases. As a federal prosecutor and Army JAG attorney, she worked with hundreds of victims, witnesses, and defendants during criminal investigations. She knows the ins and outs of what to expect, how to prepare, and how to protect people facing these situations.. TITLE IX COLLEGE SEXUAL ASSAULT CASES AND SERIOUS SCHOOL DISCIPLINE. Title IX and other serious school disciplinary investigations follow an administrative process handled internally by the school, and the traditional courtroom rules do not apply. Sometimes people accused in these types of cases try to defend themselves, believing that their goodwill with the school, their community contributions, or other factors will make the case go away. On the contrary, internal school investigations can have life-altering results including expulsion, termination of employment, or criminal charges. Ms. Muir comes alongside her clients to help them better understand the process, mount a thorough defense, find weaknesses in the allegations, present expert witnesses, negotiate with the school, and convince the decision makers to resolve the case favorably.. Ms. Muir has succeeded in convincing a university’s Title IX office to disqualify its full-time investigator for bias, which resulted in the replacement of the investigator and a finding of “not responsible” for the student accused of sexual assault. Ms. Muir also successfully negotiated on behalf of a school employee accused of improper contact with students, ultimately resulting in a finding of no impropriety and ensuring the investigation stayed out of the press.. INTERNAL CORPORATE INVESTIGATIONS. Ms. Muir understands confidentiality, risk management, and mitigating public fallout for companies that suspect internal fraud or are under investigation. As former in-house corporate counsel to a large international tech company, Ms. Muir is a trusted corporate advisor, especially when confidentiality and privacy are of the utmost concern.. CIVIL LITIGATION. Clients turn to Ms. Muir’s trial skills for representation in civil matters on a range of topics, both on the plaintiff’s side and the defendant’s side. Ms. Muir leverages her skills in research, writing, negotiation, and litigation to help her clients avoid the upheaval of trial. If the case goes to trial, Ms. Muir’s litigation expertise serves her clients no matter the subject area of the case. On civil matters, Ms. Muir often partners with other civil attorneys in her network to ensure a comprehensive and specialized team approach in any particular case.

Chris focuses his practice on State and Federal litigation, family law, criminal law, and mediation. Named 2023 Top Family Law and 2022 Top Criminal Defense Lawyer in Grand Rapids by Grand Rapids Magazine!. Experienced.. “I have had the pleasure of working with Mr. Wirth - often as opposing counsel - in family court, including several trials. He is a knowledgeable and skilled attorney. Most significantly, however, he possesses innate psychological understanding and quick wit that together translate into excellent courtroom skill. I would endorse him to anyone facing serious legal challenges in family or criminal law.” Attorney Michael Brown. "Chris -- you gave your client one of the best defenses I've seen in a long while." Adam Dreher, Ionia County Assistant Prosecutor. Respected.. "Chris has the respect of his colleagues because he believes our laws must be applied without political or personal bias," Abraham Gonzales, past President of the Ottawa County Bar Association. Knowledgeable.. “Chris is trusted by Ottawa County to care for our most vulnerable citizens,” Steve Eckert, retired Director of Bethany Christian Services.. Reasonable.

I earned a B.A. from the University of Michigan in history, with a minor in moral and political philosophy in 2005.  Following my studies, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to clerk at Willey, Chamberlain, & Yates, which was my first experience with criminal law.  I received a J.D., with distinction, from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 2009.  While in law school, I served as an associate editor of the Thomas M. Cooley Law Review and Chairman of the Mock Trial Board, Grand Rapids Campus.  Additionally, I had the opportunity to intern in the Ottawa County Prosecutor's Office which provided experience with trial work and criminal law.. Prior to joining Willey & Chamberlain LLP as an associate attorney, I used my education and experiences from law school to open a private practice devoted exclusively to criminal law.  During that time, I focused on alcohol related offenses, drug offenses, and violent crimes and was able to gain valuable experience in state courts throughout West Michigan.  Since joining Willey & Chamberlain, I have continued to develop my expertise in these areas while expanding my practice into federal criminal defense.

Britt Morton Cobb has been practicing law since 1998. She practices in both Michigan and Colorado. She has worked exclusively as a defense attorney, representing the accused in criminal cases at the trial level and in appeals at both the federal and state court levels. Britt's focus is on her federal practice, handling everything from serious drug trafficking and fraud offenses to more minor federal offenses. But, she also handles criminal cases in trial and appellate courts across Michigan and Colorado.. Britt is a conscientious, caring, and detail-oriented legal advisor. She puts clients at ease with her positive attitude, her warmth, and her penchant for problem solving.. Britt worked in Denver, Colorado for 8 years after graduating law school at the Law Firm of Abraham Hutt. When her family relocated to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 2006, Britt landed with the acclaimed criminal defense firm of Willey & Chamberlain. She worked at Willey & Chamberlain as associate then partner for 18 years. Recently, Britt's family has relocated back to Denver and she started a solo practice, handling cases in both Michigan and Colorado.. Bar Admissions. Honors & Awards. Professional Associations. o Treasurer, 2019-2021. o President-elect 2021-2022. o Newsletter Editor, 2019-2021. o President, 2022-2023

Former F.B.I. Special Agent dedicated to criminal defense and criminal appeals in state and federal court throughout Michigan.

Rachel L. Frank is a third-generation attorney committed to providing confident, compassionate, and tenacious legal representation to individuals throughout Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Understanding firsthand how an exceptional attorney can impact a client's life, the client experience is at the center of Rachel's practice, and she strives to make a difference in each of her client's lives. Clients have described her as empathetic, responsive, and confident in her abilities. From the outset of a case, Rachel takes the time to understand a client's unique situation and concerns, ensuring that her client feels heard, understood, and respected throughout the legal process. More so, no matter a client's situation, she brings a sense of genuine confidence to every case, and her confidence is not unfounded. Rachel's confidence is based on her extensive experience and success representing individuals in complex state and federal criminal cases in courts throughout Michigan. In addition, she has argued before the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals and is admitted to the United States Supreme Court. Throughout the years, she has gained an intimate knowledge of the court systems and what it takes to achieve the best outcomes for her clients. In 2018, Rachel was nominated and admitted to the National Trial Lawyers – Top 40 Under 40 division, recognizing her as one of the top 40 attorneys under the age of 40 in the state of Michigan.

I earned a B.A. from Hope College in Spanish and International Relations, and graduated Magna Cum Laude. While a student at Hope College, I took advantage of their numerous study abroad opportunities, and studied in Mexico, Spain, and India. After graduating from Hope College, I volunteered for a year as an AmeriCorps Vista volunteer at the Seattle Red Cross chapter, where I worked in their International Services Department and helped reconnect families who had lost contact due to war or natural disaster.. In 2017, I received my J.D. from Case Western Reserve University School of Law, and graduated with distinction. While there, I received a certificate honoring my commitment to pro bono work. In addition, I served as an associate editor of Case Western's Journal of International Law. While in law school, I interned at several prominent Grand Rapids law firms as well as the Kent County Office of the Public Defender.. Prior to joining Springstead Bartish Borgula & Lynch PLLC as an associate attorney, I used my education and experiences from law school at the Ottawa County Office of the Public Defender. During that time, I focused on alcohol related offenses, drug offenses, assaults, and violent crimes and was able to gain valuable experience. Since joining Springstead Bartish Borgula & Lynch PLLC, I have continued to develop my expertise in these areas while expanding my practice into federal criminal defense.

Mikayla S. Hamilton is a zealous advocate for her clients both in and outside the courtroom. Ms. Hamilton has a unique perspective as a former Assistant Corporation Counsel defending Chicago Police Officers and the City of Chicago in civil rights suits. Ms. Hamilton now defends individuals and corporations in an array of federal and state criminal charges while also representing individuals in quasi-criminal matters involving Title IX, sexual harassment, and school misconduct cases. Ms. Hamilton's diverse experience helps her evaluate the best case strategy and weigh all options with her clients to help them make informed decisions at every stage of the case. Ms. Hamilton's attention to detail, careful evaluation of the evidence, and effective advocacy help ensure her clients get the best result.. Ms. Hamilton has successfully tried several federal jury trials to defense verdict, has helped obtain acquittals, and helped clients avoid prosecution by negotiating with prosecutors before charges are made.. She is dedicated, diligent, and driven and will fight for her clients every step of the way.

I am an aggressive and professional litigator.  Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to providing the highest degree of representation available to persons accused of any crime.  A former collegiate swimmer (and current dog lover), I use my relentless work ethic to obtain the best possible results for my clients.. During my years in Central Florida, I handled thousands of cases ranging from violent felonies (murder, sexual assault, armed robbery, etc.) to civil mental health commitments, and every manner of charge in between.. In Michigan, I defend all types of criminal cases - misdemeanors, felonies, and expungements - all over southwest and central Michigan.. Several traits set me apart from other attorneys: I treat my clients like valued human beings, I love what I do, and I'm not afraid to go to trial.  In order to best serve my clients, I utilize an aggressive motion practice.  It has been my experience that aggressive litigation improves my position to negotiate favorable outcomes for my clients. Luckily for many of my clients, I also have strong Spanish language abilities.. It is my privilege to represent anyone accused of a crime. I will proudly stand alongside you on some of the worst days of your life, and I will fight for you.

Proud veteran of the United States Air Force

The sole focus of my legal practice is criminal defense at the state and federal level. I don't dabble in any other areas of the law. Similar to other professions, lawyers are--or should be--very focused in what they do. There's just too much to know in any one area of the law. To be effective is not to provide a broad array of legal services but, rather, be very particular in your field. My expertise lies in criminal defense.. Being accused of or charged with a crime, understandably, can feel like a life-altering event. The first steps you take after you receive a call from a detective seeking to ask questions or are after you've been charged with a crime, will have an incredible impact on your future. What may intuitively feel like the "right" thing to do is often, for example: explaining your side of things, surprisingly, is often the wrong thing to do legally. So if you're called or charged: I can help. I use a very communicative (you'll be able to get a hold of me) and thorough approach to every case I handle. You'll always know and understand what is going on in your case, and why we are doing what we're doing; you'll feel engaged in the process rather than feeling like the legal process is simply taking place around you.. Consultations are always free and confidential. I can be contacted directly on my phone.

How does someone choose the "right attorney"? I believe that the client must feel comfortable with the attorney, along with having confidence in the attorney's abilities in dealing with the issues at hand.. I  specialize in criminal and bankruptcy law. I also handle divorce, license restoration, and debt settlement. I offer personal service and have been very successful in keeping my clients out of jail. In practicing bankruptcy law, in addition to guiding my client through the bankruptcy process, I offer advice to my clients on how to avoid various debt traps and how to live within a budget , but only if they want the advise. I respect my client's right to make their own decisions regarding their lives.. Come on in for a free consultation. I may not be the right fit for every person, but you will not get any high pressure tactics, and you can decide if me representing you and your family is the right decision for you.

I have dedicated my career to indigent defense, and strive to provide the best representation I can to those who through no fault of their own cannot afford it.  I am a Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer (Florida 2017), "evaluated for professionalism and tested for expertise."  As an Assistant Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Michigan, I am only available by appointment of the Federal Court for the Western District of Michigan and am not available for private retention.. I am admitted to practice federally in the Western District of Florida and the Middle District of Florida.  I am admitted to practice in State court in Florida.  Please contact the Office of the Federal Public Defender, Western District of Michigan, for any questions.