Michael Norman

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Michigan

Michael Norman is the firm’s managing attorney, with experience as a trial attorney practicing both civil and criminal litigation. Over the last 16 years, he has handled hundreds of cases; collecting millions of dollars for civil plaintiffs and multiple not-guilty verdicts for criminal defendants. He received his BA from Clark Atlanta University in 1998 in Sociology and Criminal Justice. He earned his JD from Georgia State University in 2004, where he served as president of the Black Law Student Association 2003. Michael is admitted to practice law in Michigan, the state of Georgia, federal courts and the Supreme Court of Georgia.  

Michael was born and raised in the City of Detroit. He served in the Marine Corps after high school until he was discharged in Georgia, where he settled and attended both undergraduate and law school. After interning with the Department of Justice, he has continuously represented criminal defendants and civil plaintiffs in Michigan and Georgia courts. Michael was recognized by the State Bar of Georgia Committee on Professionalism in 2007. He returned permanently to Michigan in 2013 and continues to represent clients in both criminal and civil cases.  

Michael is a member of the National Trial Lawyers: Top 100, Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan (CDAM), National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL), Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (GACDL), Wolverine Bar, Oakland County Bar, Michigan Bar Association, and Georgia Bar Association.

Education

• Georgia State University College of Law, Juris Doctor
• Clark Atlanta University, Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Criminal Justice
• Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE) training
• Advanced Standard Field Sobriety Test (SFST) training

Affiliations/Memberships

• The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100
• Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan (CDAM)
• National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL)
• Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (GACDL)
• State Bar of Michigan
• State Bar of Georgia
• Wolverine Bar
• Oakland County Bar

What Area of Law Are You Skilled In and Why?

Criminal defense and civil litigation. Since each case is different and the law is constantly evolving, my profession allows me to learn new things every day. I have specialized training for OWI defense. I have completed Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE) and Standard Field Sobriety Test (SFST) training, which enables me to zealously defend my OWI clients. I have also continuously attended seminars on criminal defense issues for my entire career, focusing on the admissibility of evidence and trial strategies.

Why Are You Passionate About the Law? What Made You Practice Law?

Growing up, one of my mother’s favorite shows was Matlock. In a house with only one TV, that made it one of my favorite shows. I was inspired to represent people facing difficult situations. Growing up in the inner city of Detroit, I have personally witnessed the disparities that exist in our legal system based on race and class. I have always focused on ensuring people are treated fairly under the law.

What Is Your Most Memorable Moment in Practicing?

My personal memorable moment was watching my first high school intern graduate from law school at my alma mater. My most memorable professional moment was the first not-guilty verdict in a murder case where my client was facing life in prison. After the not guilty verdict, my client got his life back. 

What Are Some of Your Hobbies and Interests?

I enjoy tinkering with cars and motorcycle engines; most people do not know that I am a trained diesel mechanic. Most of all, I enjoy spending time with my family.