Onekama Lawyers

Matt Borgula is a seasoned trial attorney who has defended and prosecuted hundreds of criminal and civil cases. Prior to joining SBBL Law, he was one of the lead federal prosecutors for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan. As the Deputy Criminal Chief and head of the financial crimes unit and drug unit, Mr. Borgula handled every type of federal charge from investigation, to Grand Jury indictment through trial. Prior to joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office, he worked in Chicago for the law firm of Jenner & Block, where he represented clients in matters relating to...

Tessa K. Muir is an accomplished trial attorney as a former federal prosecutor and former Army JAG officer. As an Assistant US Attorney in the Western District of Michigan, Tessa served as the lead prosecutor in hundreds of federal criminal cases and Sixth Circuit appeals. She worked closely with and trained federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies on search warrants, computer investigations, and human trafficking — including the Michigan State Police, FBI, DEA, ATF, Homeland Security, police departments, and sheriffs’ offices throughout Michigan. Now, she uses that knowledge to understand weaknesses in an investigation and areas where law enforcement...

Running a business can be incredibly challenging (and rewarding), but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. I'm an attorney, but I'm also a small business owner with an entrepreneurial spirit. I love helping small business owners and creative entrepreneurs build and grow their businesses by identifying, protecting and leveraging their intellectual property. I also help businesses with legal issues and contracts involving vendors, employees, and independent contractors.

It's tempting to DIY every aspect of your business, but doing so can actually hold you back by taking you away from what you're really good at (growing your business) and spending countless...

Renee founded WN Law in 2011 in order to provide individuals with quality, affordable legal representation. Renee focuses her practice on both criminal law and family law. In her years of practice, Renee has gained extensive knowledge on how to most effectively represent her clients in order to provide the best possible outcome.

Renee has successfully represented individuals all over the State of Michigan. In her criminal practice, Renee has represented defendants facing everything from a civil infraction to a felony charge. Renee's experience includes crimes in the arena of drug crimes, theft and property crimes, juvenile crimes, violent crimes, sex...

Tom Kuiper is an experienced litigator with proficiency in a variety of cases and forums. He practices in State district, circuit, probate, federal and appellate courts, and in arbitration and mediation settings. He represents a variety of clients, from billion-dollar corporations in commercial litigation disputes to the individual involved in a personal dispute or family breakup. He also mediates a wide variety of cases. Although the issues and forums may differ, Tom's approach remains the same: To relate to people, to communicate difficult legal concepts and information in a clear and simple manner, and to work on a personal...

I live in the world of ideas and strategic planning. I value intelligence, knowledge, and competence, I have high standards in these regards, which I continuously strive to fulfill. I can objectively see the reality of a situation, and I’m adaptable enough to change things which aren’t working well. I am a strategist – always scanning available ideas and concepts and weighing them against my current strategy, to plan for every credible contingency. I am ready to work for you.

Jane A. Bassett has been practicing for over 20 years and is the principal of Bassett Law in Ann Arbor. Her practice focuses on probate, elder and disability law, LGBT law, and adoptions, including estate planning, special needs trusts, Social Security benefits, Medicaid, probate administration, vulnerable adult abuse and exploitation, and adoption. Ms. Bassett sits on council for the Elder Law and Disability Rights Section of the Michigan State Bar Association and is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. Bassett Law is a firm of five attorneys, a full-time care manager, two masters...

Bill Webster has been representing hard working men and women of Southwest Michigan for over 16 years in social security disability, workers' compensation, personal injury and domestic relations matters.

Originally a teacher, W. Jay Brown became a lawyer in 1998 and has been in practice in the Great Lakes Bay Region ever since. Mr. Brown graduated first in his law school class and joined Midland’s largest law firm as a litigation associate. While with the firm, Mr. Brown embarked on his litigation career and was soon promoted to member of the firm. In 2009, W. Jay Brown left the law firm to start his own practice based on his vision for the practice of law – where technology and innovation are leveraged to provide clients superior customer and...

Michael Bonvolanta earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 2011 from DePaul University in Chicago, Illinois. He earned his Juris Doctor degree in 2015 from the University of Detroit – Mercy School of Law where he graduated magna cum laude. He was admitted to the Frank Murphy Honor Society and served as a member of UDM’s Moot Court Board of Advocates. Bonvolanta is admitted to practice law in the State of Michigan, the United States District Court of the Eastern District of Michigan, the United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan, and the United States District Court for...

Michigan Criminal Defense Attorney Matthew L. Norwood is located in downtown Flint, directly across from the Genesee County local and state federal courts.

This prime location allows him to act quickly and aggressively in representing his clients’ cases. Having a statewide practice gives Mr. Norwood the opportunity to defend clients all over the state of Michigan.

Matthew’s law practice is devoted exclusively to Michigan criminal law and driver’s license restoration. Matthew has been working in mid-Michigan’s criminal court as a driver’s license attorney and a DUI lawyer since 2002. His favorite courts to practice out of is Grand Blanc and Fenton, although...

I practice all areas of criminal defense in both state and federal courts. I have a strong passion for helping our youth when they are charged with crimes. Most people that are charged with crimes have underlying issues that need to be addressed. We work closely with healthcare professionals through substance abuse counseling, mental health counseling, sexual deviancy counseling, and general counseling. Our approach is making sure the client gets their life back on track, all while helping them navigate their legal challenges through their court case. I love what I do. I thoroughly enjoy working with people through their...

As a research and writing attorney, Debra Garlinghouse has dedicated herself to the representation of persons who have been seriously injured due to the negligence of others. Ms. Garlinghouse has authored numerous appellate briefs on cases decided by Michigan’s various appellate courts. She is also a member of the Michigan Association for Justice amicus committee, writing and submitting briefs to the Michigan Supreme Court on important issues in personal injury law. She is a member of the State Bar of Michigan and Michigan Association for Justice, and is a founding member of the Southeastern Michigan Chapter of the Cooley Alumni...

Michael Simon earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Wayne State University in 1987 and his law degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 1990. While receiving his college and graduate education, he remained active in numerous organizations, including the Helenic Bar Association and the Delta Theta Phi Law Fraternity. After obtaining his law degree, he worked as a law clerk at the U.S. Attorney’s office, the Department of Justice in Grand Rapids and later at several metropolitan law firms. As a Trial/Litigation attorney, he has dedicated himself to the representation of persons who have been seriously injured...

Corene C. Ford has practiced law in Michigan since 2003, specializing in litigating a wide variety of civil matters including in the areas of condominium and HOA, real estate law, business law, landlord tenant, contract disputes, collections, landlord tenant, as well as personal injury cases. Corene is also a certified court appointed mediator. She has successfully mediated dozens of cases ranging from simple real estate disputes to complex commercial matters.

After graduating with a B.S. from Eastern Michigan University in 1999, Corene attended Vermont Law School from which she received a JD and Master of Studies in Environmental Law, cum laude,...

A magna cum laude graduate of Wayne State University’s law school, Steve began his law career at a large firm and immediately became involved with community association law. In 2010, he joined Mark Makower and Nathaniel Abbate to start a firm focused on providing specialized legal services to community associations. Managing partner since 2013, Stephen is known for approaching problems methodically, ensuring that everyone is treated fairly and that all viewpoints are heard and respected. When not at work, he likes to spend time with his family, play guitar and go boating and skiing.

I'm a former electrical engineer who focuses on patent preparation and prosecution in the electrical and computer arts, particularly in autonomous vehicles. My technical background is computers, digital signal processing, and communications. I am a co-inventor on ten issued U.S. patents. I am currently accepting new clients.

Since 2016, I have been serving as an expert witness and assisting in trials dealing with hazing and Risk Management engendered lawsuits involving fraternities. I have been involved in over 25 matters in the past four years primarily involving hazing and substance abuse related tragedies. I am primarily working on behalf of plaintiffs, but have represented a national fraternity, and two individual defendants.

I am an “anti-hazing and risk management Specialist”. I was the Executive Director of Delta Kappa Epsilon International Fraternity for over 29 years. In such role, I became familiar with just about all conduct by undergraduate young men...

ARTURO TRAFNY is an associate attorney with The Health Law Partners, P.C. Mr. Trafny received his J.D. from Chicago-Kent College of Law, where he received various honors, including a CALI: Excellence for the Future award for legal writing as well as a Top Associate Award for trial advocacy. While attending Chicago-Kent College of Law, Mr. Trafny conducted research on "The International Law Implications of Imposing a Border Tariff on Mexico" and presented his research at La Academia del Pueblo, an academic conference at Wayne State University.

Mr. Trafny graduated Magna Cum Laude from Wayne State University, where he received a B.A....

Sarah Gorski earned her Bachelor of Science degree in 2005 from Eastern Michigan University. She earned her Juris Doctor degree in 2017 from Thomas M. Cooley Law School. She was a member of the Phi Alpha Delta Fraternity, and Chair of the Mock Trial Board. Gorski focuses primarily on first-party automobile claims, third-party auto negligence, motorcycle and bicycle accidents. She also handles other personal injury claims, including slip and falls, dog bites, and wrongful death lawsuits.

I was a law clerk coming out of school, then a trial lawyer, then a general practice and criminal defense lawyer. My practice somehow evolved into focusing on business issues, asset protection, debt work outs, and bankruptcy. I've been practicing for 39 years. I know a little about a lot.

Alex grew up on the Mississippi River in the Quad Cities area. He has been a public defender in Iowa, an elected prosecutor in Wyoming, and now has established a firm in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan focusing exclusively on top notch state and federal criminal defense.

K.C. Baran, P.C. was established in 2003. K.C. Baran has been practicing law for over seventeen years. His areas of practice include, bankruptcy, estate planning, civil and criminal litigation, collections, contracts, employment law, family law and corporate practice.

K.C. is a graduate of the United States Military Academy, West Point and Michigan State University College of Law, cum laude. K.C. is a member of the State Bar of Michigan and the Genesee County Bar Association. He is admitted to practice in the State of Michigan, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, and the United States Court...

Since he began practicing law, Luke has gained experience in all aspects of the justice system. He has experience in administrative hearings, trial courts, and appellate courts. He has represented criminal defendants, prosecuted municipal ordinance violations, and served as guardian ad litem for children in child protective proceedings, vulnerable adults, and people with mental incapacitation. He maintains a robust transactional practice as well. Serving clients with real estate transactions (residential and commercial) and business sales (industrial and commercial).

Michigan Attorney Kathryn Wayne-Spindler has built a full-service law firm that is pleased to be successfully helping clients with all their divorce, family law, adoption, child custody, change of domicile, estate planning, minor criminal defense and probate needs. She is an experienced and aggressive fighter in the courtroom. She is also known for being a compassionate counselor to her clients. She understands that her clients' cases are not just legal battles to be won, but life-changing events that can potentially be emotionally traumatic. She listens and advises with her client's best interests in mind. Years ago, Wayne-Spindler realized that...

Matthew’s practice focuses on all aspects of both criminal defense and family law, including divorce, child custody and support issues, paternity, parenting time disputes and spousal support modifications. Specifically, Matthew ‘s talents are best utilized in high conflict family situations for professionals, especially cases involving mental health and substance abuse issues, dealing with narcissistic personality disorders and special needs children. Matthew is a proud Howell High School graduate and is a lifelong resident of Livingston County. Matthew is the recipient of: American Institute of Legal Advocates “Rising Star 2019” award, and the “Top Ranking Attorney” award for both 2020 and 2021 from...

Michigan State University 1986
Detroit College of Law 1989

Scott J. Sumner, J.D. is a graduate of Michigan State University, (1986) and Michigan State University/Detroit College of Law, (1989). He is a founding member of Sumner & Associates, P.C., and is its President and principal shareholder. Scott was the President of the Rochester Bar Association (2004-2005). He is a member of the State Bar Association and a member of the Oakland and Macomb County Bar Associations, since 1990, and is licensed to practice in the United States Federal Court. He is also a licensed and experienced Real Estate Broker and Residential Builder.

Nicolas A. Vesprini earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology in 2000 from Oakland University. He earned his Juris Doctor degree in 2003 from the University of Detroit – Mercy School of Law where he served as the Executive Director of Moot Court Board, represented the law school in national moot court competition, and was an active member of the Student Bar Association Board of Governors, and a Book Award recipient. Nicolas is admitted to practice law in the State of Michigan, the United States District Court of the Eastern District of Michigan, and the United States District Court for...

Michael R. Shaffer earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1995 from Michigan State University. He earned his Juris Doctor degree in 1999 from Wayne State University Law School. Shaffer joined Buckfire Law in September 2022 with extensive experience in Michigan’s No-Fault Law and auto accident litigation. Prior to joining Buckfire Law, he worked for 17 years for a well-known plaintiff firm specializing in auto law. Shaffer’s primary focus will be on first-party automotive claims, third-party auto negligence, and motorcycle, pedestrian, and bicycle accidents. He also handles other personal injury claims including dog attacks, slip and falls, and wrongful death lawsuits.

Professional Affiliations: Michigan Bar Association Wayne County Family Law Bar Association Oakland County Bar Association Livingston County Bar Association Washtenaw County Bar Association Michigan Association for Justice (formerly Michigan Trial Lawyers Association) Collaborative Practice Institute of Michigan Professional Accreditations: Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Rated AV (Highest possible Rating in both Legal Ability and Ethical Standards) 2005-2023 Michigan Super Lawyers 2010-2023 Family Law Certificate recipient, Institute for Continuing Legal Education (I also teach the Custody and Parenting Time segment for this program)

Mr. Wright is general counsel to numerous corporations both in the United States and abroad, advising senior management regarding general corporate affairs, finance, business planning and the resolution of business disputes.
Mr. Wright is often called upon to negotiate complex business and legal issues, including the purchase or sale of a client company or its assets, and the resolution of contentious disputes between clients and suppliers, competitors, or government regulators. Mr. Wright frequently lectures to lawyers and business executives on the topics of international business transactions, enforcement of commercial agreements, and business financing.
Mr. Wright is a member of the American Bar...