Top best Criminal Defense Lawyers Near me in ZIP 49503

The West Michigan Defense Team  is a high powered Criminal Defense firm located in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. Attorney Jason Jansma is a senior partner with the firm.

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.

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.

Proud veteran of the United States Air Force

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.

Lykins Law specializes in Crimnal Defense, Drunk Driving and License Restoration cases. Attorney Jerry Lykins is a founding partner at Lykins Law, PLC.  Lykins Law is a high powered Criminal Defense law firm located in Grand Rapids, Michigan.. Jerry has experience of being both a former assistant prosecutor in 2 states and a seasoned trial tested defense attorney. Jerry has been a licensed attorney since 1994 and has been a practicing criminal defense attorney since 1998. Jerry practices in all criminal courts in West Michigan. In addition to his work as a defense attorney, Jerry has been actively involved with the Grand Rapids Bar Association as the Criminal Bar Section Chair for the past 2 years. Jerry is also a sitting member of the 62-B Regional Sobriety Court Team Member, and a Team Member to the Youthful Sex Offender Treatment Program.. In terms of his legal practice, Jerry has built a reputation within the legal community for always zealously representing his clients, for being honest, practical and attempting to deliver the very best results and resolutions to his clients cases. Over Jerry's 24 years in the criminal law system, he has handled a variety of criminal cases from Murder, Criminal Sexual Conduct (Rape), Home Invasion cases, Fraud cases, Major and Minor Drug cases, Felony Assault cases to misdemeanors like Domestic Violence. Jerry has represented over 1500 clients in Drunk Driving type cases. Jerry's experience as a prosecutor, defense attorney and Sobriety Court Team member truly makes him one of the best attorneys to deal with Drunk Driving defense cases.  If you want to see some of Jerry's results you can visit the review section of Jerry's AVVO page or his Google Plus page at Lykins Law.. Jerry can be reached 24/7 on his cell phone at.

Kelly was born in Omaha, Nebraska and graduated from Ottawa Hills High School in Grand Rapids. In 1985 he received his Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from Michigan State University where he was a National Merit Scholar.  In December 1988, he received his law degree from University of Michigan Law School where he was the recipient of the Wolverine State Bar Association Scholarship.  In 1989, Kelly was licensed to practice law in New York.  In 1990 he was admitted to practice law in Michigan.  He was admitted to practice in the US District Court for Western and Eastern Districts of Michigan in 1990 and 2009, respectively.. Actively involved in community orginazations for years, Kelly has worked with the Clinic for Child Advocacy and a board member for United Way Justice Committe.  He has also been a legal writer for Grand Rapids Times, volunteers for neighborhood associations and election campaign committees, served on the Grand Rapids Community College Business Advisory Board, served as Trustee for Living Word Church and board member for Guiding Light Missions.. Prior to his legal career, Mr. Lambert worked at the Pentagon for the Secretary of the Air Force.

I was born and raised in the Eastown area of Grand Rapids, Michigan, where from a very young age my parents instilled in me the importance and desire of helping other people. As an attorney, I am able to wake up every day knowing that I can fulfill that characteristic. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in English, with an emphasis on Language & Literature and a minor in Writing, from Grand Valley State University. I then graduated Magna Cum Laude from Western Michigan University Cooley Law School. While in law school, I was the Editor-in-Chief of the Law Journal, a Senior Associate Editor for Law Review, and a teacher’s assistant for Scholarly Writing. My practice areas include, but are not limited to, criminal defense, auto accidents, civil litigation, family law, contracts, personal injury, landlord/tenant law, estate planning, and appellate practice. I also volunteer through Cooley’s Access to Justice clinic helping indigent client’s receive expungements so that they may better their lives going forward into the future. When not working, I enjoy running, crossfit, backpacking, hiking, snowboarding, mountain climbing, camping, kayaking, reading, live music, and spending time with my family.

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.

I have been practicing criminal law for the past 24 years.  I graduated from the University of Toledo College of Law in 1987. Prior to going to law school I recieved my undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice from the university of New Haven. Since coming to Grand Rapids, my practice has been mainly criminal defense with some family law and personal injurie law to keep thngs interesting.. The reason I chose these areas of the law is that I love being in court and arguing. I have always enjoyed that part of my job the most, representing  clients is what I love.. If you find yourself in need of a criminal defense attorney, I would be honored to represent you. Just remember what I always say .... "TALK TO ME BEFORE YOU TALK TO THE POLICE"

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.

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.

I am an attorney with over 16 years of experience in all West Michigan and Metro Detroit counties specializing in:. Criminal defense representation for all misdemeanor and felony charges, including:  Drunk Driving/OWI/OUID, Drug Crimes, Criminal Sexual Conduct, Armed/Unarmed Robbery, Assault and Battery, Assault with Intent to Commit Great Bodily Harm, Felonious Assault, Domestic Vioence, Larceny/Theft crimes, Home Invasion, Trespass, MIP, Creating a Disturbance, and Resisting/Obstructing Police.. Juvenile Neglect and Abuse Cases.. Juvenile Delinquency Cases.. Driver License representation:  all issues involving license restoration hearings before the Secretary of State, circuit court appeals, and Implied Consent hearings.. Seizure/Forfeiture cases.. Criminal Record Expungements.. We also provide referrals for all legal matters that we choose not to handle ourselves.

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.

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.

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.

Decades of success is not easily overlooked. I am focused on delivering results. I have been practicing law in State and Federal courts for more than 20 years and have obtained a vast amount of experience as a result of many courtroom battles. Recent victories include acquittals for possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking (fed case#1:22-cr-169), retaliation against an informant causing injury (fed case#1:20-cr-009); reduced sentence sex trafficking, conspiracy to commit sex trafficking (state case#23-1409FC). You're innocent until proven guilty. It's not a crime to be accused of a crime - Don't Settle.. I've handled a wide array of criminal charges, including:. Firearm OffensesDrug distribution overdoseDrug conspiracyBank fraudArmed RobberyChild sexual abuseFelony drunk drivingMurderStalkingTerrorism-related chargesUttering and publishing. I grew up in Gary, Indiana (about 28 miles southeast of Chicago). Violent crime was commonplace in my childhood neighborhood. After graduating high school I left my old neighborhood and joined the U.S. Navy where I served six years on active duty. Afterward, I attended and graduated from the University of California, at Berkeley, Berkeley, California. From there it was on to Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Lansing, Michigan. My early life experiences have shaped my perspective of the criminal justice system. I have personally seen what it means to have a lawyer who (1) understands your family dynamics, (2) understands environmental barriers, and (3) will fight. I understand what it is like to be accused of a crime and to find yourself in the crosshairs of the police.. I've built a reputation for delivering results for my clients. I bring a disciplined approach and steadfast commitment to work each day.

Daniel B. Hess, JR. was raised in Grand Rapids, MI. Daniel went on to attend Michigan State University where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice in 1992. Daniel then attended California Western School of Law, where he graduated in 1995.. While obtaining his law degree, Daniel interned at the San Diego County Public Defender’s Office where he gained a tremendous amount of experience working within the criminal justice system. Daniel was admitted to the California Bar in 1997.. In 1999, Daniel accepted a position at Hess, Hess & Kmetz, PC along side his Father, the late Daniel B. Hess, Sr., and his Uncle, the late John H. Hess. Daniel was admitted to the Michigan Bar in 2000.. While with Hess, Hess & Kmetz, PC. , Daniel’s main areas of practice were bankruptcy law, criminal law and family law with a primary focus on protecting men’s rights through the firms affiliation with the American Divorce Association for Men (ADAM).. With the emergence of Gordon & Hess, PLC, Daniel now continues to seek justice for men and woman alike in both the family and criminal court systems and to carry on the legal family tradition of his late Father and Uncle. Daniel is a strong and savvy advocate and has obtained a significant amount of courtroom experience in his areas of practice.

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.

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

Brian Gordon was raised in East Lansing area where he attended and graduated from Okemos High School in 1989. Brian attended and graduated from Michigan State University in 1994 and Michigan State University College of Law in 1999 (formerly known as the Detroit College of Law at Michigan State University).

Brandon Gardner founded Brandon Gardner & Associates, PLC on the principle that every client deserves zealous, high-quality legal representation, especially those facing the most serious crimes and complex family disputes. Brandon has over twenty years' experience in multiple aspects of the court system from small claims dispute resolution to appeals to the Michigan Supreme Court and utilizes this breadth of knowledge to develop custom solutions to every case at the firm, no matter the complexity.. Mr. Gardner’s practice areas include serious felonies and federal crimes, complex domestic litigation, and personal injury litigation. Additionally, he is an approved domestic relations mediator on many court rosters throughout Michigan.. Brandon is admitted to practice in Michigan, the Federal District and Bankruptcy Courts for the Western and Eastern Districts of Michigan, and the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals. His professional memberships include the Criminal Law, Children's Law, and Family Law Sections of the State Bar of Michigan; the Grand Rapids Bar Association; the State Bar of Michigan Access to Justice Policy Committee where he makes recommendations on proposed rule and law changes and their impact on underrepresented communities; and the State Bar of Michigan Judicial Qualifications Committee where he makes recommendations concerning judiical appointments to the Governor's office. Other professional memberships include the Monroe North Business Association and Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce.. Since 2016, Mr. Gardner has been annually rated “AV Preeminent” by Martindale-Hubbell and recognized as a Michigan Rising Star by Thompson-Reuters. He has written several articles for the Ingham County Bar Association's "Briefs" and the Grand Rapids Lawyer. Mr. Gardner has practiced in over 30 Michigan Counties and appeared before over a hundred jurists.. Brandon completed his undergraduate degree at California State University, Fullerton, and earned his juris doctorate from Michigan State University College of Law. He is an active volunteer in the community regularly assisting low-income individuals, sober living groups, local farms, and community service providers.

Attorney and founding firm partner Charles E. Chamberlain, Jr. has been practicing law in West Michigan for over 30 years. His legal practice has covered a wide variety of trial work in both federal and state courts. Early in his career, “Chip” Chamberlain was a federal prosecutor, as well as a defense attorney.. Chip has earned an excellent reputation among fellow attorneys and judges, and is known as a tough and effective advocate for his clients. He is a fellow of the American and Michigan Bar Foundations. He has also been listed in The Best Lawyers in America every year since 2000, and in Michigan Super Lawyers since 2006. The Grand Rapids Magazine has also recognized him as one of Michigan’s top lawyers.. If you have been charged with a crime, you need aggressive, effective and efficient representation dedicated to protecting your rights and interests at every stage of your case. Experienced attorney Chip Chamberlain will effectively support you from the grand jury investigation through an appeal, if necessary.

Aggressive, experienced, hard working attorney working for YOU!  As communication is key, I will keep you informed, educate you about the system, law and case, and give you the honest pro's and con's to your case.  I provide all clients statutes, case law, and my personal cell number - I'd rather you call with a question or to talk about your case then loose sleep! Secretary, para-legal, computer forensic examiner, private investigator, and associate attorney are ready willing and able to work on your case.  I have represented clients agains: health care fraud; mortgage fraud; conspiracies; gun charges; murder; drugs; sex crimes and more.

A Life Devoted to Justice, Honor, and Service. Beginning with his service in the United States Army Judge Advocate General Corps, where he defended those who defend America, Mike Bartish has always been a force to be reckoned with. A criminal defense attorney whose compassion for his clients is as fierce as his courtroom skills, Mike has been an unwavering advocate for justice and the accused for nearly two decades. His story is not just about legal triumphs but a dedication to service that transcends professional boundaries.. Early Life and Education. Mike Bartish's journey in the realm of law began at the University of Notre Dame, where he attended on a U.S. Army R.O.T.C. scholarship. Yet it was at the University of Cincinnati College of Law where he honed his legal skills, setting the stage for a remarkable career that would extend far beyond the confines of the courtroom.. A Lawyer's Mind, a Soldier's Soul: The Army Years. After graduating from law school, Mike joined the United States Army Judge Advocate General Corps, where he took his first steps in criminal law. Stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, and serving in the First Cavalry Division and the Trial Defense Services, Mike navigated the intricacies of over 100 cases and 15 jury trials, including high-profile murder and attempted murder cases. His four-year tenure in active duty honed not just his legal skills but also instilled an unbreakable sense of duty, honor, and service.. A New Chapter: The Birth of SBBL Law, PLLC. Leaving active duty after four years, Mike moved to Grand Rapids and worked for two renowned law firms before joining forces with Gary Springstead to create Springstead & Bartish Law, PLLC in 2011. What began as a modest, three-person operation quickly established itself by turning seemingly indefensible cases into trial successes. As the firm’s reputation grew, so did the size of the firm until it evolved into SBBL Law, PLLC, - West Michigan’s premier criminal defense firm.. A Lawyer With a Heart. Mike has a reputation for taking his cases personally. Some might see this as a weakness; for him, it's an unmatched strength. Specializing in defending clients charged with some of the most serious criminal offenses imaginable, Mike's numerous acquittals in both state and federal courts speak volumes about his commitment to his clients—whom he defends as passionately as if they were family. Mike also understands, however, that sometimes clients need more than just a defense in the courtroom. Mike has a unique ability to fashion resolutions for his clients in lieu of trial that address the client’s circumstances and treat the underlying cause of uncharacteristic actions. Mike’s reputation for honesty, honor, and ethical behavior has allowed him to cultivate trustworthy relationships with prosecuting attorneys and courts throughout the state to benefit his clients.. Mike’s advocacy is not limited to trials. Mike has also established himself as a formidable advocate for his clients in the appellate courts. With extensive experience in the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals and Michigan appellate courts, his record includes numerous victories and precedent-setting published decisions.. A Lasting Legacy. In addition to his civilian practice, Mike dedicated his life to the United States Army. Mike served on active duty in the Army Reserves and the Michigan National Guard for 26 years, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel in May 2023. He spent most of his career as a trial defense attorney and defense appellate counsel defending those defending America.. Beyond Legal Briefs and Courtrooms. His service didn't stop at the courtroom or the military. It extends to shaping future legal minds as a West Catholic High School Mock Trial Team volunteer coach. What spare time Mike does have, he spends with his wife Anne (an accomplished attorney in her own right) and his four children. On weekends, Mike can usually be found on the sideline of an athletic field (often multiple fields), cheering on his children or immersed in a spirited yard or board game with his family.