52-4 District Court Judge Kirsten Nielsen Hartig

Troy District Court Judge Kirsten Nielsen Hartig is an Intelligent, Hardworking Judge for the Cities of Troy and Clawson

Michigan Criminal Defense Attorneys - Group

A Judge Who Is Tough But Fair

Troy Michigan District Court Judge Kirsten Nielsen Hartig is a graduate of Traverse City Senior High School and Michigan State University (James Madison Honors College). She was chosen as one of six students nationally to intern at the White House during President Ronald Reagan’s administration. Judge Hartig received her law degree from the Washington College of Law at the American University and graduated in the top 5% of her law school class. She is one of two judges serving in the 52-4 District Court.

For six years, Judge Hartig was an Assistant Oakland County Prosecutor and co-founded the Domestic Violence Assault Unit. After leaving the prosecutor’s office, Judge Hartig was in private practice for 14 years, specializing in criminal and traffic law.

Troy Michigan District Court Judge Kirsten Nielsen Hartig is a fair jurist in criminal matters because she has served as a prosecutor and a defense attorney. She understands a criminal case from both sides. Judge Hartig’s expertise in criminal law is invaluable for a person charged with a crime in her court. To be before a Judge that has actually “been there” representing similarly situated people. Judge Hartig will listen to both sides of a case and give each side a full and fair evaluation. Just because Judge Hartig is thoughtful, a defendant should not assume that she is not a tough judge who can and will impose jail as a sentence for a misdemeanor or violation of probation. It takes thorough preparation, creative planning, and a highly persuasive argument to keep a client from being incarcerated in her courtroom. The highest possible caliber of legal representation can be expected by a client represented by the criminal defense team with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C.

Troy Michigan District Court Judge Kirsten Neilsen Hartig is not afraid to make tough, legally supported decisions.

In 2013, Judge Hartig invalidated a portion of the Michigan Motor Vehicle Code for equal protection reasons. The decision related to driving while “under the influence of a controlled substance,” specifically marijuana, because of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act. It was clear to Judge Hartig that two classes of people were subjected to the controlled substance provision of our motor vehicle code. One group of drivers have medical marijuana cards, and they are permitted to have THC in their bloodstream while driving, so long as the level does not impair their ability to drive. The other group of drivers has no such marijuana card and is strictly liable for operating a vehicle with any amount of THC in their blood.

In her ruling, Troy Michigan District Court Judge Kirsten Nielsen Hartig relied on a case from Georgia that stated the effects of legally used marijuana are indistinguishable from the effects of illegal marijuana consumption. She found that a driver is still impaired under either set of circumstances. Therefore, no rational public safety interest is served by creating these distinct classes of drivers; thus, the equal protection clause of our Constitution is offended.

Troy Criminal Defense Attorneys

The Troy Criminal Defense Team with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. has tremendous respect for Troy Michigan District Court Judge Kirsten Neilsen Hartig. No lawyer wins every case, but the mutual respect between Judge Hartig and LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. ensures that the firm’s clients get a fair hearing. Judge Hartig has a well-deserved reputation for making well-reasoned and intelligent decisions. The attorneys of LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. are lucky enough to have known Judge Hartig before becoming a Judge and unequivocally state that she was a first-rate prosecutor and defense attorney. She was always well-prepared and zealously represented her clients. She has transferred that work ethic to the bench. The cities of Troy and Clawson are lucky to have her as their District Court Judge.

LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. was founded on the principle that no person shall face the criminal justice system and the power of the state and federal government without assistance. The 6th Amendment to the United States Constitution states that a person has the right to counsel when facing criminal charges. LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. believes this protection is paramount to a functioning society. The firm takes its obligation to give people an opportunity for a full and fair hearing exceptionally seriously.

The attorneys with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. have an unparalleled track record of success in the 52-4 District Court. When the judge and prosecutor see an attorney from LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. enter the courtroom. They know that we are there to win. The firm’s attorneys command respect from the judiciary, colleagues, and prosecutors.

Common Criminal Charges in the 52-4 District Court in Troy, Michigan

Retail Fraud
Criminal Sexual Conduct
Weapons Charges
Violation of Probation
Theft and Embezzlement
White-Collar Crimes, including fraud, embezzlement, financial crimes
Internet and Identity Theft Offenses
Child Pornography and Child Sexually Abusive Material Possession, Manufacture, and Distribution
Reckless Driving and Civil Infraction Causing Serious Injury or Death
OWI, DUI, and other Drug/Alcohol-Related Driving Offenses
Domestic Violence
Felonious Assault and all assault charges
Drug Possession, Distribution, and Use Charges
Driving on Suspended or Revoked License (DWLS)
Homicide Offenses

The Premier Criminal Law Firm Practicing in Troy, Michigan

The Defense Team at LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. can provide the highest level of defense for felony or misdemeanor charges, probation violations, and expungement in the Troy District Court. If you call us for a free consultation, we will take the time to talk with you, answer all your questions, and address your concerns. We will find a way to help you. When you work with our team, you can expect the following:

Extensive knowledge of Michigan criminal law
Familiarity with the 52-4 District Court procedures and expectations
A strong track record of success in Troy, Michigan
Excellent negotiation skills
Ability to develop strategic, personalized defense plans
Respectful relationship with Judge Kirsten Hartig and court staff
Zealous advocacy both in and out of the courtroom
Deep understanding of jury selection and trial tactics
Commitment to continuous legal education and staying updated on law changes
Compassionate client communication and dedicated personal attention

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.