Best Detroit Criminal Defense Lawyers

Top rated criminal defense attorneys in Detroit, MI, deliver expert legal representation. This curated list showcases the city's best criminal justice professionals, ready to protect your rights.

List of the Top Criminal Defense Attorneys in Detroit, MI

Screenshot of the Davis Law Group PLLC Website
615 Griswold St Ste 719, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

Detroit criminal defense attorney Maurice Davis brings former assistant state's attorney experience to Davis Law Group. The firm maintains over 200 five-star reviews while specializing in DUI/OWI defense, drug charges, and expungement services. Clients receive fast, dedicated legal representation throughout Michigan's court system. Davis Law Group offers free consultations and focuses on protecting the rights of individuals facing criminal charges in Detroit and surrounding areas.

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Screenshot of the George Law Website
444 S Washington Ave, Royal Oak, MI 48067, USA

Award-winning criminal defense distinguishes George Law in Royal Oak, Michigan. The firm earned recognition as a 2024 Top Lawyer by dBusiness and maintains over 200 five-star client reviews. Their attorneys specialize in DUI/OWI, family law, and business law with decades of experience. George Law handles violent crimes and white-collar offenses while providing personalized attention and robust legal representation. They offer free consultations throughout southeastern Michigan.

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Screenshot of the The David J. Kramer Law Firm, PLLC Website
42400 Grand River Ave Suite 109, Novi, MI 48375, USA

The David J. Kramer Firm specializes in criminal defense and family law. Since 1992, attorney David Kramer has led the firm in Detroit and Southeast Michigan. They handle felony and misdemeanor cases across several counties. The firm has offices in Novi and Detroit. Their expertise covers criminal sexual conduct, domestic violence, DUI, and child custody issues. The team is known for its strong track record and personalized approach. They aim to achieve the best results for every client..

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Screenshot of the Boria Law - Criminal Defense Attorney Website

Boria Law operates throughout Plymouth, Michigan, with attorney Aaron J. Boria achieving near-perfect success in license restoration cases. Recognized by DBusiness Top Lawyers and Super Lawyers, the firm handles assault, domestic violence, DUI/OWI, and expungement cases. Boria serves courts across Livonia, Redford, and Westland while providing award-winning representation. They focus on drug possession defense and driver license restoration with personalized, effective legal support for each client.

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Screenshot of the Law Office of Julian J. Poota, PLLC Website
26555 Evergreen Rd #1220, Southfield, MI 48076, USA

The Office of Julian J. Poota is Michigan's top-rated criminal defense firm. Attorney Poota brings 2 decades of experience to the table. The firm handles cases from misdemeanors to felonies across Metro Detroit. They offer 24/7 availability and free consultations. Their team is known for effective legal strategies and strong client advocacy. The Southfield office assists with DUI, assault, and drug crime charges. Their goal is to achieve positive outcomes for every client.

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Screenshot of the Jonathan Jones, Attorney at Law, PLLC Website

Jonathan Jones brings over 30 years of criminal defense experience to clients throughout Oakland, Wayne, and Macomb Counties. His dedication earned recognition on the 2024 Michigan Super Lawyers list. The firm provides aggressive representation with personalized attention for those facing criminal charges. Jones offers free case evaluations and maintains 24/7 availability for consultations. His Royal Oak practice focuses exclusively on criminal defense and DUI cases with proven expertise.

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Screenshot of the Kirsch Daskas Law Group PLLC Website
2882 S Telegraph Rd STE 105, Bloomfield Twp, MI 48302, USA

Kirsch Daskas Law Group is a Michigan criminal defense firm specializing in child abuse, sex crimes, and federal charges. Led by former prosecutor Lisa Kirsch Satawa, a Super Lawyers selectee. The team brings over 30 years of experience defending clients across Michigan. They serve Detroit, Bloomfield Hills, and Big Rapids with free consultations and strategic defense approaches.

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Screenshot of the Law Office of Kevin Bessant & Associates, PLLC Website

The Office of Kevin Bessant & Associates provides top-tier criminal defense in Detroit, Michigan. Attorney Kevin Bessant, a Michigan Superlawyer, fiercely defends clients against various charges. The firm handles cases from drug offenses to federal crimes. With offices in Detroit, Eastpointe, and Southfield, they serve Southeast Michigan. Free consultations and flexible payment options make legal help accessible to all.

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Screenshot of the Ellen K. Michaels and Associates, PLLC Website
500 Griswold St # 2340, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

Ellen K. Michaels is a top-rated criminal defense lawyer in Detroit and Southeast Michigan. Her firm offers strategic legal representation for various criminal charges. They handle cases from drug crimes to federal offenses. The legal practice has offices in Detroit, Bloomfield Hills, and other locations. They work diligently to protect clients' rights and achieve favorable outcomes. The firm provides free consultations and is available 24/7 for criminal defense services.

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Screenshot of the Federal Criminal Attorneys of Michigan Website

Federal Criminal Attorneys of Michigan is a top Detroit legal firm. They specialize in federal criminal defense nationwide. With over 30 years of experience, the firm handles complex legal matters. Sanford Schulman leads the team, having managed 4,000+ cases. The firm defends clients against fraud, theft, and drug charges. Their attorneys offer strategic advice to protect clients' rights. They strive for positive outcomes in high-stakes federal cases.

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Screenshot of the Bajoka Law Group PLLC Website
500 Griswold St Suite 1630, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

Bajoka Law Group specializes in federal criminal defense throughout Detroit and Michigan. Edward Bajoka, Super Lawyers since 2019, authored the LexisNexis Practice Guide for Michigan Criminal Law. The firm handles white-collar crimes, healthcare fraud, drug trafficking, and immigration violations. They offer free confidential consultations and maintain offices in Detroit, Lansing, and Warren.

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Screenshot of the Grabel & Associates Website
1345 Bridlewood Ln, Williamston, MI 48895, USA

Grabel & Associates delivers criminal defense across Lansing, Ann Arbor, and Grand Rapids with over 100 years of combined experience. The firm handles DUI, drug charges, sex crimes, and license restoration cases. They maintain 24/7 availability and offer free consultations. Their attorneys focus on avoiding jail time and protecting client records through aggressive representation.

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Screenshot of the The Bennett Law Firm, PLC Website
25600 Woodward Ave #214, Royal Oak, MI 48067, USA

The Bennett Law Firm is a Royal Oak criminal defense practice focusing on drunk driving, drug crimes, and assault cases. Attorney Samuel Bennett earned Super Lawyers Rising Star recognition for his compassionate approach. The firm provides free case reviews throughout Southeast Michigan, including Detroit and Bloomfield Hills. Bennett combines extensive experience with personalized client service.

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Screenshot of the Salvatore Prescott & Porter, PLLC Website
1010 Davis St, Evanston, IL 60201, USA

Salvatore Prescott & Porter is an elite law firm founded by three female trial lawyers with 70+ years combined experience. Operating from Northville, Michigan, and Evanston, Illinois, they specialize in employment law, civil rights, white-collar criminal defense, and Title IX claims. The partners have secured seven-figure verdicts in high-profile cases. Jennifer Salvatore ranks among Michigan's Top 100 lawyers, while both she and Sarah Prescott made the Top 50 Women in Michigan list.

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Screenshot of the Michael A. Rataj, PC Website
500 Griswold St #2450, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

Michael A. Rataj is a Detroit lawyer specializing in federal criminal defense. Attorney Rataj brings over 30 years of experience to complex cases. He handles drug charges, healthcare fraud, and RICO violations. Rataj, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, is known for his strong advocacy. The firm represents clients facing serious federal charges in the Detroit area. They offer free case evaluations to potential clients.

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Screenshot of the Law Offices of Christopher R. Shemke Website
24500 Ford Rd, Dearborn Heights, MI 48127, USA

Christopher R. Shemke operates a Dearborn Heights criminal defense practice serving Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties. The former Wayne County prosecutor brings prosecutorial insight to DUI, federal charges, and white-collar crime defense. Shemke graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law and maintains active membership in the Michigan bar association.

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Screenshot of the William W. Swor, PC Website
Guardian Building, 500 Griswold St #2450, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

William Swor & Associates is a Detroit-based legal practice with 50+ years of experience. The firm specializes in federal criminal defense, constitutional law, and serious criminal matters. Led by William Swor, their team handles high-profile cases. They provide expert representation for complex legal challenges. Their lawyers focus on protecting clients' rights and achieving positive outcomes.

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Screenshot of the Jeffrey G Schwartz Offices Website
400 Monroe St # 490, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

Jeffrey G. Schwartz defends clients in criminal cases across Michigan. The Detroit firm handles felonies, misdemeanors, and juvenile matters. Mr. Schwartz brings 4 decades of experience to his legal practice. He represents clients in state and federal courts. The firm also takes on police misconduct and personal injury cases. As a former prosecutor, Mr. Schwartz has earned respect in legal circles. With offices in Detroit and Southfield, the firm serves clients statewide.

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Screenshot of the The Law Offices of Holland Locklear Website
607 Shelby St Suite 725, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

The Law Offices of Holland Locklear combines personal injury and criminal defense expertise in Detroit. Holland Locklear has secured millions for clients in car accidents, employment disputes, and civil rights cases. The metro Detroit native is a member of the National Lawyers Guild and the Michigan Association for Justice. He offers free consultations for all practice areas.

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Screenshot of the Law Office of Matthew S. Erard, PLLC Website
400 Bagley St #1150, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

The Office of Matthew S. Erard fights for individual rights in Detroit and beyond. Attorney Erard, a Wayne State Law graduate, specializes in constitutional and civil rights cases. He defends clients in criminal matters and appeals. The firm fights for workers' rights and against employment discrimination. It also handles eviction defense and personal injury claims. Erard's experience includes work at the ACLU of Michigan. This progressive practice serves clients throughout Michigan, focusing on First Amendment issues.

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Screenshot of the Goldman & Associates Website
3150 Livernois Rd. Suite: 335, Troy, MI 48083

Goldman & Associates is a top criminal lawyer in Troy, Michigan. They defend clients statewide against DUI, assault, theft, and other charges. The firm's attorneys are experienced criminal defense experts. They work tirelessly to protect clients' rights and achieve favorable outcomes. G&A boasts a perfect 10.0 AVVO rating. The firm offers free legal advice sessions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I'm arrested in Detroit?

If you're arrested in Detroit, immediately:

  • Exercise your right to remain silent and avoid discussing your case with anyone except your attorney
  • Request to speak with a criminal defense lawyer before answering any questions
  • Do not resist arrest or argue with law enforcement officers
  • Remember all details of your arrest, including officer names, times, and locations

How do I choose the right criminal defense attorney in Detroit?

When selecting a criminal defense lawyer, consider these crucial factors:

  • Years of experience handling similar criminal cases in Detroit courts
  • Track record of successful case outcomes and plea negotiations
  • Knowledge of local court systems and relationships with prosecutors
  • Client reviews and professional reputation in the Detroit legal community

What types of criminal cases do Detroit defense attorneys handle?

Misdemeanors Felonies
DUI/OWI Drug Trafficking
Petty Theft Violent Crimes
Simple Assault White Collar Crimes
Minor Drug Possession Criminal Sexual Conduct

How much does a criminal defense attorney cost in Detroit?

Legal fees vary based on case complexity and attorney experience. Most Detroit criminal defense attorneys offer:

  • Free initial consultations to evaluate your case
  • Flat-fee arrangements for straightforward cases
  • Hourly billing for complex cases
  • Payment plans to make legal representation more accessible

What are the potential outcomes of a criminal case?

Possible case resolutions include:

  • Case dismissal due to lack of evidence or procedural errors
  • Plea bargains with reduced charges or penalties
  • Diversion programs for first-time offenders
  • Trial verdict of guilty or not guilty
  • Alternative sentencing options like probation or community service

How long does a criminal case typically take in Detroit?

Case duration varies significantly based on:

  • Case complexity and severity of charges
  • Court calendar and scheduling
  • Prosecution's evidence gathering process
  • Defense strategy and negotiation process

Misdemeanor cases may resolve in weeks or months, while felony cases can take several months to over a year.

Can a criminal record be expunged in Michigan?

Michigan's Clean Slate laws allow for expungement of certain criminal records. Eligibility depends on:

  • Type and severity of the conviction
  • Time passed since the conviction
  • Criminal history and subsequent offenses
  • Completion of all court-ordered requirements

What sets Detroit criminal defense attorneys apart?

Top Detroit criminal defense lawyers offer:

  • Deep understanding of Michigan criminal law and local court procedures
  • Experience with Detroit's unique legal landscape and judiciary
  • Strong relationships with local prosecutors and law enforcement
  • Knowledge of available diversionary programs and alternative sentencing options
  • Familiarity with specific judges' tendencies and preferences