West Branch Lawyers

Clay Wittman served 26 years in the Active Duty US Air Force, retiring as a Colonel in 2009. He is now "retired" in Grand Rapids. He has "been around the block" a few times and knows what it means to serve others. As a Lawyer, Clay Wittman takes a very limited number of clients, so that he can serve those few clients with the care and attention they deserve. Clay is a graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, and the Western Michigan Law School. He graduated Law School Magna Cum Laude and...

Michael Oblizajek is a veteran in the field of personal injury. He's settled millions of dollars in cases for his clients and is a strong fighter who is ready to take on big insurance companies that have a reputation of denying benefits to those injured in auto accidents.

I am a licensed attorney in the state of Michigan, who practices criminal and family law in Genesee County and Metro Detroit. I am an experienced attorney that consistently wins favorable outcomes for clients across southeast and mid-Michigan.

Melissa K. Allen has served the Greater Lansing area since 1995, offering compassionate and professional estate planning services. A University of Michigan and then Thomas M. Cooley Law School graduate, she earned multiple honors, including Cum Laude distinction and top 7% of her class. Ms. Allen has been recognized with the "People's Choice Award for Favorite Attorney" seven times and frequently speaks on estate planning. Her approachable manner and expertise simplify complex issues, such as second marriages and beneficiaries with disabilities, making the process easy and rewarding for her clients.

Frank Hathaway studied at the University of Detroit-Mercy graduating with a Bachelor of Arts Degree. He studied law at Michigan State University College of Law graduating with the degree of Juris Doctor, Cum Laude. Mr. Hathaway is admitted to practice in all Michigan Courts, the United States Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Michigan, and the United States Bankruptcy Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Michigan. He is an active member in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan, a former member of its Representative Assembly, a member of the Criminal Law...

Jeffrey’s experience and expertise in consumer bankruptcy – specifically chapters 7 and 13 – makes all the difference. “Our firm has shown time and time again that our dedication to the client does not end when their case does. Our job isn’t done until we have done everything possible to help clients lead a financially successful life,” he explains. “I love seeing my clients, but I know I am most successful if I never need to see them again. If my clients exit bankruptcy with a better understanding of their finances, what mistakes they made, and how they can avoid...

My practice focuses on criminal defense including misdemeanors and felonies in both the trial and appellant courts. He has a strong interest in complex constitutional law issues and their applicability in the criminal justice system. I am an active member of the Michigan Appellate Assigned Counsel System commonly known as the MAACS; an organization responsibly for nearly 84% of all assigned criminal appeals cases in Michigan. My practice also includes a strong emphasis in family and estate law including: parent’s rights, divorce litigation, custody, parenting time, child support, guardianships, estate planning, probate litigation and juvenile matters. I...

Ivan is a dedicated Divorce and Family Law attorney that works diligently to fight for fairness for Men and Fathers. He is proud of his affiliation with the American Divorce Association for Men (ADAM).

George Zulakis has successfully represented clients in criminal and juvenile matters for over 30 years. He is a recognized leader in the field of criminal defense and has been nominated by his peers for Lead Counsel Rating in state felonies and misdemeanors and for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America (DUI subspecialty, 2009-2016). Mr. Zulakis has experience in many areas of criminal defense, including DUI/drunk driving, domestic violence, assault, breaking and entering, drug crimes, sex crimes, juvenile delinquency, embezzlement, fraud, shoplifting, MIP/minor in possession, and traffic offenses. For more details on Mr. Zulakis's extensive legal experience, honors, and...

With over eighteen years' experience in both law firm and large corporate environments, handling local, national, and international transactions of various types, I am able to assist clients in structuring and completing complex transactions while maintaining a personalized focus. Our firm appreciates each opportunity we have to learn a client's needs and provide customized solutions to the client's legal issues. I have substantial experience in real estate, corporate structure and governance, commercial contracts and procurement, mergers and acquisitions, estate and succession planning, and construction.

Lise Spresser focuses her entire practice on all aspects of family law, with over a decade of practice before the Circuit Court Family bench in Oakland, Lapeer, Macomb, Genesee, Wayne and St. Clair. Her goal is to educate, support and passionately advocate for her clients while helping them navigate through the difficult legal process. Lise earned her Juris Doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law and graduated from the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada, where she received top accolades in the Legal Studies Program. Lise is a member of the Family Law Section of the State Bar...

Paparella & Associates is a law firm specializing in intellectual Property. Namely, Patents, Trademarks, & Copyrights, and serves the business community nationwide. By structuring the law firm around, and operating the firm under sound business practices, Paparella & Associates has uniquely positioned itself to deliver the highest quality representation, while utilizing a fee structure that is more in line with the business community’s expectations. Representing clients in all intellectual property matters including, Patents, Trademarks, Copyrights, Infringement Matters, Clearance Opinions, Freedom to Operate Opinions, Trade Secrets, and Litigation.

Mark Reina was admitted to practice law by the Michigan State Bar in 1984.He has handled all types of Criminal cases, such as: drug offenses, CSC, larceny, OUIL/DWLS, etc. Mr Reina also handles all forms of family matters law, including: Divorce, Custody and Support. His office handles Bankruptcy (usually Chapter 7 individual). His office is conveniently located on Dixie Hwy in Clarkston, He can be reached at his cell phone (248) 390-3464.

We offer a full suite of legal services including: Criminal, Family, Divorce, Child Support/Visitation, Bankruptcy, Civil and Litigation. We cover primarily Oakland County but...

I am a shareholder at Rhoades McKee, P.C. I help individuals and businesses facing real estate disputes, land development challenges, condemnation, real estate transactions and construction matters achieve their objectives through a defined and realistic strategy. I can provide a detailed understanding of the emerging legal issues in green building and the LEED rating system. I am the only attorney in West Michigan that has achieved the LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) designation through the United States Green Building Council, and an environmental certification from Green Advantage®. I understand the issues faced by those individuals and businesses in the real...

David has practiced law for 15 years and specializes in estate planning, wills, trusts, probate and defense of medical malpractice and civil rights lawsuits. He is a shareholder of Chapman Law Group and is licensed in both Michigan and Indiana. David is a Special Fiduciary at the Oakland County Probate Court. He is dedicated to educating the public on issues in estate planning including providing assets and care to loved ones, limiting taxes, and establishing healthcare protocols. David strives to serve each individual clients estate planning needs, tailoring each plan to address wealth preservation and family financial security. David holds a Certificate...

Ms. Breen specializes in family law which includes divorce, child custody disputes, child support, spousal support, and prenuptial agreements. She also prepares estate plans which includes the preparation of trusts, wills, powers of attorneys for finance and medical care, and setting up guardianships/conservatorships. Ms. Breen has litigated hundreds of cases and has the experience to represent her clients in court.

The Law Offices of Marshall S. Tauber has been committed to representing and serving the needs of all clients, throughout Michigan, in all trial courts, both State and Federal, with integrity and dedication.

Mark Bank’s legal career has focused on complex matrimonial matters for more than 20 years. Every year since 2009, he has been named as one of the “Top 100 Lawyers in Michigan” by Michigan Super Lawyers. Annually, he has been listed by his peers in Best Lawyers in America as “one of the top family law attorneys” in the country, and in Michigan Super Lawyers as one of the premier family law attorneys in Michigan. He is also a Fellow in the nationally distinguished American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, where he serves as the Co-Chairperson of the Continuing Legal Education...

I am a partner in the law firm of Lippitt O'Keefe Gornbein, PLLC where I head the family law unit of the firm. I am a leading expert in all aspects of family law including divorce, child custody, pre and postnuptual agreements as well as doing a substantial amount of mediating and collaborative law. I am a former chairperson of the Family Law Section of the State Bar of Michigan, a former President of the Michigan Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, former chair of the long range planning committee of the national AAML. Member...

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...

Kevin Kijewski is a practicing attorney and the owner of KDK Law located in Birmingham, Mich. The attorneys at KDK Law proudly serve clients throughout Metropolitan Detroit in the areas of divorce, family law, criminal defense, and civil litigation. Kijewski is committed to getting his clients results, and he is relentless to that end. He's known for the unparalleled level of energy and expertise he brings into cases, and the long lasting results he wins for his clients.

Marisa is an attorney at Varnum providing support across several practice areas. As a member of the Litigation Practice Team, she focuses her practice on commercial business disputes and general litigation matters, including contract disputes, business torts and construction or property-related issues. Marisa also supports the firm’s Privacy and Mobility Practice Team, working with children’s privacy issues and helping clients address regulatory and compliance challenges in the evolving mobility sector. Within the Family Law Practice Team, Marisa has experience with cases involving divorce, custody disputes, minor guardianships, stepparent adoptions and parental rights termination. She is actively building a fertility law practice,...

With over 25 years of extensive experience as the founding partner of the Oliver Bell Group, attorney Alyson Oliver possesses a robust foundation for tackling intricate litigation challenges. She can assist clients nationwide with locations in both Troy, Michigan, and Dallas, Texas. Her determination, meticulous preparation, and comprehensive discovery processes have secured leadership positions in infamous cases such as Phillips CPAP, MOVEit, Exactech, and more. Oliver boasts a well-documented history of representing a diverse clientele, ranging from corporations and class action plaintiffs to individuals and the broader community. Her expertise encompasses multiple types of litigation such as: Product liability Class action litigation Mass tort...

Andrea has over a decade of courtroom experience in civil, criminal, family law, and juvenile matters. She devoted a significant portion of her caseload to tackling family law matters, helping her clients face the complex family court systems and working hard to resolve their family issues. She understands that family law matters are emotional and often stressful. Her goal is always to provide compassionate, caring representation that keeps in mind her clients’ best interests. Through her dedicated advocacy, she gives her client a voice and makes sure their side of the story is hear through the legal system.

Sam Morgan's practice focuses on advising and representing non-union employees in employment-related legal disputes. The vast majority of his work involves litigation, including lawsuits alleging wrongful termination, all forms of illegal employment discrimination (especially age, race, gender and disability discrimination), sexual harassment, "Whistleblowers" and other unlawful retaliation, breach of employment contract (retention agreements, bonuses, commissions) non-payment of wages and overtime pay, non-competition and non-solicitation agreements, disputes over the misappropriation, use and/or disclosure of proprietary information and/or trade secrets. Sam has particular expertise in executive compensation disputes, and disputes involving minority equity owners and shareholder oppression, as well as public...

Mr. Karian has represented individuals and businesses throughout the United States in complex federal and state matters, audits and appeals, income tax, payroll tax and sales tax issues.
He is a veteran attorney who is also highly proficient in bankruptcy and estate planning. Mr. Karian obtained his Master of Laws in Taxation from New York University, annually ranked as the top tax law program in the country.
Prior to entering private practice, Mr. Karian served as CEO of a large national health and wellness company. He brings unique experience that has proved invaluable to individuals, business owners and...

Robert M. Meisner has been a practicing attorney since 1969 and is the founding member of the community association law firm, The Meisner Law Group, P.C., in Bingham Farms, Michigan. Mr. Meisner is a Fellow of and Michigan’s first inductee into Community Association Institute’s College of Community Association Lawyers (CCAL). He has been selected in multiple years as a Michigan Super Lawyer by Thomson Reuters, has been selected in multiple years as a Top Metro Detroit Attorney in the field of Condominium Law and Real Estate Law by DBusiness Journal, and has been honored as one of only 30...

Marc has practiced in the areas of tax controversies and litigation, business litigation, and probate litigation for over 35 years. He knows what to do to release tax levies, release liens, and resolve audits, innocent spouse and fraud claims, and civil penalties. Likewise, he knows how to litigate business disputes and probate contests.

In June, 1989, I was appointed an assistant prosecuting attorney with the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office. While an assistant prosecutor, I tried over 150 cases to verdict and was assigned to the office’s Special Narcotics Unit, prosecuting mid to upper level drug traffickers. In 1997, I was promoted to the position of Chief of the Narcotics Unit, a position I held until leaving the office in August, 2000. As Chief, I was responsible for overseeing the work of four assistant prosecutors, presented large scale drug investigations to the Oakland County Citizen’s Grand Jury and taught numerous courses to cadets at...

Christopher Frayer earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from Northwood University in 1991. He later earned his Juris Doctor degree in 2001 from Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Chris joined the firm in February 2024 and focuses primarily on medical malpractice, nursing home neglect, birth injury, civil rights, and governmental claims. Before joining Buckfire & Buckfire, P.C., Chris served as a medical malpractice attorney at a firm in metro Detroit. He previously represented healthcare companies, professionals, and corporate clients litigating medical malpractice cases in state and federal courts.

I focus on serving the needs of businesses in the food, beverage and hospitality industry, including regulatory compliance (TTB, FDA, USDA and FTC), commercial real estate (acquisition, disposition, leasing, tax credits, development and financing), finance, commercial transactions (licenses, contracts and agreements), intellectual property protection, and business entity structuring and governance matters.

When you come to The Law Offices of Stuart Lee Sherman, you can have confidence that your case can receive the help you need from an estate planning lawyer in Oakland County. Attorney Sherman has earned his highly-respected reputation, and he is ready to stand beside you and support you today. He attended Indiana University in Bloomington, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree. From there, he went on to earn his Juris Doctorate at Wayne State University, before continuing on in his education and receiving his LL.M. in Taxation from New York University School of Law. Attorney Sherman has a...