Criminal expungement

Today in the State of Michigan, it has never been easier to remove your past criminal convictions. Whether it’s an old conviction or a mistake from years ago, an expungement can remove barriers to employment, housing, and peace of mind. The time to act is now — every year, more people become eligible for expungement under Michigan law, but the process remains complex and detail-oriented.

Our approach to expungement cases begins with a thorough review of your record and the underlying offense. We will meet with you personally, review all relevant documents, and determine your eligibility under Michigan’s expungement statutes. From there, we prepare and file your petition, represent you at the hearing, and guide you through every step of the process. Our experience in the local courts allows us to anticipate procedural issues and present your case in the most favorable light possible.

For many clients, an expungement represents more than a legal process — it’s a fresh start. Whether you’re seeking better job opportunities, professional licensing, or simply peace of mind, we are ready to help you take this important step toward reclaiming your future and living on your terms.

  Offenses not eligible for expungement

• All offenses punishable by life imprisonment

• Assault with intent to commit criminal sexual conduct

• Child sexually abusive material or activity offenses

• Felony domestic violence if the person has a previous misdemeanor conviction for domestic violence

• Fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct (committed after January 12, 2015)

• Human-trafficking related offenses

• Second-degree child abuse

• Second-degree criminal sexual conduct

• Some traffic offenses such as: convictions for driving while intoxicated, traffic offenses that cause injury or death, and commercial driver’s license violations

• Terrorism-related offenses - includes convictions for attempts to commit any of these offenses

• Third-degree criminal sexual conduct

• Using a computer to commit sex crimes offenses

Criminal Defense

If you have been accused of a crime in Northern Michigan the time is now to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to protect your rights.  Evidence and certain defenses you might have can begin to disappear the longer you wait so it is in your best interest to act quickly. 

Our approach to criminal defense involves a detailed meeting with any prospective client, be it in person, by telephone, or in jail.  We will ask you for every detail surrounding the alleged incident(s) from any background information you may have to the details of your arrest.  We will comb through all police reports and evidence in preparing a vigorous defense strategy moving forward. Our experience in the local courtrooms will help us to provide you with all available options and predictable results. 

If you are innocent of the charges being levied against you or we are able to determine that law enforcement made a procedural error in their investigation or arrest, we will begin fighting day 1 to have your case dismissed.  We will prepare a vigorous trial strategy from the outset and implement same if we are unable to have the case dismissed short of trial.  If we are unable to have your case dismissed and must proceed to trial, while we understand that you may be nervous about the proceedings, you should feel confident in your chosen representation.

Sometimes, whether it be because of an accidental admission or substantial and compelling evidence to the fact that you have committed a crime, mitigating your exposure will be our best strategy.  We will explore every option and our experience in Northern Michigan courtrooms can help us to craft a plea that will keep your life as ‘normal’ as possible given the circumstances.

dual representation divorce

Divorce Doesn’t Have to Be a Battle

When a legally married couple decides to part ways, it does not always require both parties to have separate representation. In cases where both parties agree on the division of assets and parenting time arrangements, a dual representation divorce or joint representation may be the answer. With Dual Representation Divorce, one experienced attorney helps both spouses finalize a fair, efficient, and affordable agreement—together.

If you and your spouse are ready to move forward with respect and cooperation, this streamlined approach saves time, reduces stress, and avoids the high cost of litigation.

No drama. No courtroom fights. Just solutions.Let us guide you through the legal process with clarity, compassion, and a shared goal: a peaceful transition for both of you.

In dual representation, both spouses work together with one attorney who:

• Drafts the divorce agreement

• Explains the legal process and implications

• Advises both parties on general legal matters

• Helps with filing documents and meeting court requirements

However, the lawyer must remain neutral and cannot advocate for one spouse over the other. If a conflict arises, the lawyer may be required to withdraw completely.

Is Dual Representation right for you?

1. You and your spouse agree on most or all terms, including:

• Division of property

• Child custody and parenting time

• Child/spousal support

2. There's mutual respect and communication

3. No history of abuse, coercion, or power imbalance

4. You both want a faster, more cost-effective divorce

5. You’re both comfortable with a single lawyer not advocating for either side exclusively