Business Details
15 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Trusted Criminal Defense in Michigan
Michigan Defense Law has been dedicated to providing skilled criminal defense representation for over two decades. Our team of experienced attorneys, led by Paul J. Tafelski and David Goukassian, specializes in defending clients facing DUI charges, domestic violence allegations, drug offenses, and other criminal matters. We prioritize a client-first approach, combining legal expertise with personalized strategies to protect clients' rights and futures.Our practice spans all Michigan state and federal courts, with a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes through trial advocacy and negotiated settlements. We maintain strong professional affiliations with organizations like the Michigan Bar Association and Super Lawyers, reflecting our commitment to excellence in criminal defense.
Services
DUI Defense
Domestic Violence
Drug Charges
Felony Defense
License Restoration
Juvenile Crimes
Sex Crimes
Federal Crimes
OWI Appeals
Criminal Expungement
Details
- Year established: 2011
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of combined experience in criminal defense
- Our attorneys are admitted to all Michigan state and federal courts
- We offer 24/7 availability for urgent legal matters
- Our team includes former prosecutors with insider knowledge of the system
- We maintain a strong track record of case dismissals and reduced charges
Associations and certifications
- Super Lawyers
- Leading Lawyer
What people say
24/7 availability
Immediate responses
Professional knowledge
Case dismissed
Excellent results
Services
DUI Defense
Our DUI defense practice handles all levels of alcohol-related driving charges including first-time offenses, repeat violations, and high-BAC cases. We challenge chemical test accuracy, traffic stop validity, and field sobriety test reliability while exploring plea negotiation options. Our attorneys have successfully reduced penalties and secured dismissals for clients facing license suspension, fines, and potential jail time.
Domestic Violence
We defend against domestic violence allegations involving assault, protective order violations, and related charges. Our approach addresses both criminal penalties and collateral consequences like housing and employment impacts. We challenge evidence credibility while protecting clients' rights during no-contact order proceedings and criminal trials for misdemeanor and felony domestic assault charges.
Drug Crimes
Our drug crime defense covers possession, distribution, and manufacturing charges for controlled substances including marijuana. We examine search and seizure legality, challenge lab analysis procedures, and explore alternative sentencing options. Our team handles both state and federal drug cases, with experience securing charge reductions and diversion program placements for first-time offenders.
License Restoration
We assist clients with driver's license appeals following alcohol-related revocations. Our process includes preparing substance abuse evaluations, organizing character references, and presenting compelling testimony before the Michigan Secretary of State. We guide clients through ignition interlock device requirements and help establish sobriety timelines to maximize reinstatement success.
Criminal Expungement
Our expungement practice helps clients clear eligible criminal convictions from public records. We evaluate eligibility based on offense type and sentencing dates, prepare petition packages, and represent clients at court hearings. We focus on minimizing employment barriers by navigating Michigan's complex expungement statutes to secure fresh starts for qualified applicants.
People
Paul J. Tafelski
Founding Attorney
With over 20 years of criminal defense experience, Paul Tafelski graduated from Michigan State University College of Law. He's admitted to all Michigan state and federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. A Super Lawyers honoree (2011-2013, 2017-2021), he specializes in DUI defense, felony cases, and appellate work while maintaining a client-focused approach.
David Goukassian
Attorney
David Goukassian brings prosecutorial experience from Genesee County and clerkship training under Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Leo Bowman. Graduating Magna Cum Laude from Cooley Law School in 2017, he joined Michigan Defense Law in 2019. Fluent in Armenian, he handles state and federal criminal cases with particular focus on DUI and drug offense defense.
Questions
What should I do immediately after a DUI arrest in Michigan?
Contact Michigan Defense Law immediately to protect your rights. We'll review your case details, explain your legal options, and start building your defense strategy while preserving critical evidence.
Can first-time DUI charges be dismissed in Michigan?
Yes, through legal challenges to evidence validity, procedural errors, or by negotiating alternative resolutions. Our attorneys have successfully secured dismissals through pre-trial motions and plea negotiations.
How does a domestic violence charge affect child custody?
Domestic violence allegations can impact custody arrangements through automatic no-contact orders. Our attorneys work to protect parental rights while addressing criminal charges through coordinated legal strategies.
What's the difference between DUI and OWI in Michigan?
OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) is the official legal term in Michigan, while DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is commonly used. Both refer to alcohol-related driving offenses with similar legal consequences.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Michigan?
Eligibility depends on offense type and sentencing completion. We'll evaluate your criminal history to determine if you qualify for record sealing under Michigan's expungement statutes.
How long does license restoration typically take?
The process generally takes 3-6 months, including preparation time and hearing scheduling. Our team streamlines the process by organizing required documentation and representing you at Secretary of State hearings.
