Lapeer County Criminal Attorney

If you face felony or misdemeanor charges in Lapeer County, you need a top defense lawyer to protect and defend you. We have decades of experience and a consistent track record of success.

Top Criminal Defense Attorneys in Lapeer County, Michigan

If you face a felony or misdemeanor charge in Lapeer County, you need an attorney with the skill, credibility, and local insight to protect your freedom, reputation, career, and family. The Lapeer County criminal defense attorneys with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. are nationally recognized for their strategic, compassionate, and results-driven representation in both the Lapeer County Circuit Court and the 71A District Court.

Our team of seasoned trial lawyers handles every aspect of criminal defense, from pre-charge investigations and arraignments to trials, appeals, and post-conviction motions. We have successfully defended thousands of clients throughout Michigan and have earned a reputation for excellence, integrity, and fearless advocacy.

The Lapeer County Court System

Lapeer County operates with a uniquely streamlined structure: one Circuit Court Judge and one District Court Judge oversee all criminal cases. Because both judges personally handle every criminal matter in the county, familiarity with their expectations, procedures, and sentencing philosophies is essential to providing clients the best possible outcome.

The attorneys at LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. appear regularly before both judges. We understand how each court operates, how to prepare cases for optimal outcomes, and how to present our clients in the most favorable light.

71A District Court – Hon. Laura Cheger Barnard

Judge Laura Cheger Barnard presides over the 71A District Court and handles all misdemeanor cases, traffic offenses, and preliminary felony proceedings, including arraignments and exams.

Judge Barnard runs an efficient, organized courtroom and expects preparedness and professionalism from everyone who appears before her. She is fair, balanced, and pragmatic, and she provides defendants with genuine opportunities to demonstrate responsibility and rehabilitation. Even though she is generally fair, even Judge Bernard will rule in favor of the prosecutor unless defense counsel makes a compelling case for a different ruling.

Although she often favors probation and rehabilitative sentencing, she will order jail time when she believes a defendant presents a danger to themselves or others, when it becomes clear that the person is not committed to genuine reform, or there is a legitimate reason for her to impose punishment. Her approach is both firm and compassionate, and lawyers respect her for treating each case individually rather than applying a one-size-fits-all philosophy.

Because Judge Barnard values honesty, preparation, and sincerity, having a defense attorney who understands her expectations can make a meaningful difference in your case.

Lapeer County Circuit Court – Hon. Michael Nolan

Judge Michael Nolan presides over the Lapeer County Circuit Court, which handles all felony cases from arraignment on the information (AOI) through sentencing. Judge Nolan is known for his thoughtful and deliberate approach to each case. He carefully considers all information and arguments presented by counsel and strives to impose sentences that are balanced, lawful, and just.

When preparing for sentencing before Judge Nolan, defense counsel must be ready to present credible documentation, expert analysis, and clear evidence of rehabilitation. While he is open-minded and fair, Judge Nolan requires a strong, well-supported reason to deviate from a probation department recommendation, particularly in felony matters.

Our attorneys have appeared before Judge Nolan in countless cases and understand how to prepare persuasive presentations that earn credibility and achieve favorable results. We have the reputation, respect, and influence to provide a zealous defense during motions, evidentiary hearings, jury trials, plea negotiations, plea bargaining, and sentencing. Our first priority is always to seek a dismissal of all charges.

Our Advantage: Teamwork and a Track Record of Success in Lapeer County Courts

Because the Lapeer County court system is smaller and tightly coordinated, success depends on professionalism, preparation, and credibility. Our defense team has established strong working relationships with both Judge Barnard and Judge Nolan, the Lapeer County Prosecutor’s Office, and local court staff.

This familiarity allows us to anticipate procedures, tailor our advocacy to each judge’s expectations, and achieve results that many other firms cannot match. When we appear in court, the judges and prosecutors know our clients are represented by attorneys who are knowledgeable, skilled, relentless, and not afraid to win.

Common Criminal Charges in Lapeer County

Our Lapeer County criminal defense attorneys represent clients charged with the following felony and misdemeanor cases:

We also handle expungements, driver’s license restoration, and appeals throughout Lapeer County.

Avoid Jail – Protect Your Future

Lapeer County courts are known for being firm but fair. Although the judges often impose jail or prison time, it is not inevitable, even in serious cases. With experienced representation, creative strategy, and a robust defense, our attorneys have repeatedly helped clients avoid incarceration, secure dismissals, or resolve cases with minimal penalties. We understand the stakes! A criminal conviction can affect employment, professional licensing, family relationships, and reputation. Our mission is to safeguard your record, your freedom, and your future.

Contact a Lapeer County Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If you or someone you care about faces criminal charges in Lapeer County, contact LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. today for a free, confidential consultation. If you face criminal allegations, our team will mobilize behind you and do whatever it takes to protect and defend you. Even if someone has accused you of a crime, but the police haven’t charged you yet, we can find a way to help on a pre-charge basis, try to prevent the charges, and take measures to ensure the police do not arrest you. Give us a call today. We will review your case, explain your options, and design a defense strategy tailored to your specific goals.

Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete an online Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.

We will find a way to help you.
We Are Not Afraid to Win!

Lapeer County, Michigan

The Thumb region of Michigan contains Lapeer County, which is located one hour north of Detroit, while maintaining its rural character despite suburban development. The county seat of Lapeer maintains its traditional small-town atmosphere through its historic buildings and its ancient courthouse. The county contains agricultural land with traditional red barns that appear in tourist images, while Lake Nepessing and other lakes provide fishing and boating opportunities during the summer months. The population of 90,000 residents creates a community that feels neither extremely small nor entirely urban because residents frequently recognize each other at the gas station. The economy of Lapeer County faces challenges similar to Michigan’s other regions because it lost manufacturing employment during the past decades, yet maintains a balance between farming operations and local businesses and workers who travel to Flint and Detroit for their jobs. The county preserves its relaxed way of life because it maintains proximity to major cities, which prevents residents from feeling cut off from the world.