Michigan Criminal Defense Lawyers

Lawyer Legion Criminal Defense Information Center of Michigan

Search Directory for Criminal Defense Lawyers
Criminal Defense Lawyers by County
Criminal Defense Lawyers by Practice Area
Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Michigan
More Noteworthy Criminal Defense Attorneys in Michigan
Michigan Legal Resources
Specialty Certifications in Criminal Defense
Michigan Government and Court Resources

Search Directory for Criminal Defense Lawyers in Michigan

Change your query below to search for lawyers in other areas. *results are limited to 250 per query

Criminal Defense Lawyers by County

Criminal Defense Lawyers by City

Criminal Defense Lawyers by Practice Area

More Practice Areas

Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Michigan

Lawyer Legion created this list of the top picks in 2024 for the best criminal defense attorneys in Michigan. To rank the top criminal defense attorneys and other lawyers in Michigan, we used both objective and subjective criteria.

The top criminal defense attorneys were selected based on their career accomplishments, success in high-profile cases, professional involvement, community leadership, and board certifications.

This list represents some of the most highly accomplished criminal defense lawyers currently practicing in Michigan. When reviewing this list, please be aware of each of the following:

Lawyers cannot pay to be included in this list.
Only lawyers who are active on Lawyer Legion were selected.
No online directory can accurately determine a statewide list of attorneys who are actually “the best” at practicing criminal law (but our list comes close).

Scott Grabel
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Lansing, MI
View Profile

Steven A Freeman
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Windsor charter Township, MI
View Profile

Mary Chartier
Criminal Defense and Marijuana Lawyer
East Lansing, MI
View Profile

Michael J Nichols
Criminal Defense and DUI / DWI Lawyer
East Lansing, MI
View Profile

Jared C Austin
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Lansing, MI
View Profile

Barton W Morris Jr
Criminal Defense and DUI / DWI Lawyer
Royal Oak, MI
View Profile

John N. Elliott
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Troy, MI
View Profile

Gary K Springstead
DUI / DWI and Criminal Defense Lawyer
Fremont, MI
View Profile

Jalal Dallo
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Bloomfield Hills, MI
View Profile

Michael R Bartish
Criminal Defense and DUI / DWI Lawyer
Grand Rapids, MI
View Profile

Steven C. Benson
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Reed City, MI
View Profile

James Makowski
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Dearborn, MI
View Profile

More Noteworthy Criminal Defense Attorneys in Michigan

Michigan Legal Resources

Criminal Defense Bar Associations and Legal Organizations
Specialty Certifications in Criminal Defense
Michigan Government and Court Resources

Helpful Videos

Dallo Law | Premier Criminal Defense

Criminal Defense Bar Associations and Legal Organizations

Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan (CDAM) - Formed in 1976, the Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan (CDAM) was established by criminal defense lawyers to enhance the representation of indigent defendants and others accused of crimes. By providing training and educational resources to its members, the CDAM strives to better its practice. Members of CDAM come from both private practices and the public sector and have a range of experience from new to well-seasoned.

Specialty Certifications in Criminal Defense

Criminal Trial Law - The specialty area of Criminal Trial Law is offered by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) to lawyers. To earn NBTA board certification, the criminal defense attorney must show substantial involvement in at least 45 days of trial, must have served as lead counsel in jury cases through verdict; conducted direct examinations and cross-examinations, and conducted a specified number of voir dire, opening statements and closing arguments.

DUI Defense Law - The National College for DUI Defense, Inc. (NCDD) is an organization that grants specialty or board certification for DUI Defense Law. The ABA has recognized the NCDD as an organization that is accredited to award certification in this specialty area of the law. The purpose of granting board certification in DUI Defense Law is to recognize DUI and DWI lawyers who focus their practice on representing men and women accused of drunk and impaired driving offenses. In order to qualify for board certification in "DUI Defense Law," the attorney must meet specific qualifications and apply for board certification with NCDD.

Michigan Government and Court Resources

Department of Attorney General - State of Michigan
Michigan Indigent Defense Commission
Michigan Judicial Branch
Michigan Legislature
Michigan Supreme Court
Michigan Law Enforcement Agencies

Department of Attorney General - State of Michigan

Department of Attorney General - State of Michigan - The Department of Attorney General of Michigan, led by the Attorney General elected by the people, serves as the state's chief legal officer. This department is responsible for providing legal counsel to state agencies and officials, representing Michigan in legal matters, and overseeing the enforcement of laws. The Attorney General plays a pivotal role in prosecuting and defending legal actions on behalf of the state, issuing legal opinions, and addressing a diverse array of legal issues, including consumer protection, public safety, and environmental concerns.

Michigan Indigent Defense Commission

Michigan Indigent Defense Commission - The Michigan Indigent Defense Commission (MIDC) was created in response to concerns about the quality of legal representation for indigent individuals. Established in 2013, it aims to ensure constitutionally effective defense services. MIDC sets standards, oversees funding, and offers resources to improve the quality of representation for those who cannot afford private attorneys. The commission collaborates with stakeholders to enhance defense services within Michigan's legal system.

Michigan Judicial Branch

Michigan Judicial Branch - The Michigan Judicial Branch plays a pivotal role in the state's legal system, entrusted with interpreting and upholding the law. Its core duties include adjudicating civil and criminal cases, ensuring due process, protecting individual rights, and overseeing family law matters. With its unique challenges and legal issues, such as those related to the automotive industry and the Great Lakes, the Michigan judiciary addresses state-specific matters while maintaining a commitment to fairness.

Michigan Legislature

Michigan Legislature - The Michigan Legislature operates as a bicameral body, composed of the Michigan Senate and the Michigan House of Representatives. The Senate consists of 38 members serving four-year terms, while the House comprises 110 members serving two-year terms. The Legislature is responsible for proposing, debating, and passing laws that govern the state. Its duties include formulating the state budget, levying taxes, and addressing various policy issues such as education, healthcare, and economic development.

Michigan Supreme Court

Michigan Supreme Court - The Michigan Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority in the state, responsible for interpreting and administering the law. Its primary role involves reviewing appeals from lower courts to ensure the correct interpretation and application of state laws and the constitution. The court's duties encompass hearing a diverse array of cases, including civil, criminal, and constitutional matters, and establishing legal precedents that guide lower courts and legal practitioners statewide. Additionally, the Michigan Supreme Court oversees the regulation of attorneys, managing attorney admissions, setting ethical standards, and disciplining lawyers to uphold ethical conduct within the legal profession throughout Michigan.