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Trusted Criminal Defense Attorney in Traverse City
As a seasoned criminal defense attorney with over 25 years of trial experience, I have dedicated my career to protecting the rights of the accused in Traverse City, Michigan, and surrounding areas. My background as a former prosecutor and U.S. Army veteran informs my strategic approach to defending clients against serious charges. I provide honest legal counsel, aggressive advocacy, and personalized attention to every case, leveraging my deep understanding of Michigan law and courtroom procedures. My firm prioritizes client communication, transparency, and achieving favorable outcomes through proven defense strategies tailored to each individual's circumstances. 
Services
Criminal Defense
OWI Defense
Drug Crime Defense
Assault Charges
Felony Defense
Highlights and features
- We offer 25 years of trial experience as former prosecutors
- Our team provides one-on-one attorney representation for every client
- We deliver honest appraisals with no unexpected surprises
- US Army Veteran with deep understanding of military legal matters
- Available 24/7 for urgent legal matters and consultations
Associations and certifications
- Martindale-Hubbell
- National College for DUI Defense
What people say
Best possible results
Genuine caring for cases
Prompt communication
Professional and compassionate
Confident and persistent
Services
Criminal Defense
Our criminal defense practice protects clients facing serious charges in Michigan. With former prosecutor experience, we develop tailored defense strategies for assault, drug crimes, and felony charges. Services include case evaluation, evidence analysis, courtroom representation, and negotiation with prosecutors. Our Traverse City-based attorney leverages 25+ years of trial experience to protect clients' rights and freedom throughout Michigan.
OWI Defense
Specialized defense for operating while intoxicated charges in Michigan. We challenge breathalyzer accuracy, field sobriety test validity, and police procedure violations. Our Traverse City office serves clients statewide with strategies to reduce penalties, contest evidence, and protect driving privileges. Former prosecutor insights help identify weaknesses in prosecution cases for OWI, high BAC, and repeat offenses.
Drug Crime Defense
Comprehensive defense for drug-related charges including possession, manufacturing, and trafficking. Our Michigan practice challenges search and seizure legality, lab analysis procedures, and evidence handling. We represent clients in drug court programs, probation violations, and sentencing negotiations. Former prosecutor experience informs effective strategies for reducing charges and securing deferred sentences for first-time and repeat offenders.
Assault Charges
Defense representation for all assault charges under Michigan law, including domestic violence and aggravated assault. We challenge evidence credibility, establish self-defense claims, and contest witness testimony. Our practice addresses both misdemeanor and felony assault charges, focusing on minimizing penalties and protecting clients' futures through trial preparation and plea negotiation strategies.
Felony Defense
Specialized defense for felony charges carrying prison sentences of two years or more. Our Traverse City firm handles complex cases including homicide, sex crimes, and drug trafficking. We challenge evidence admissibility, develop mitigation strategies, and negotiate sentencing alternatives. Former prosecutor insights help anticipate prosecution tactics while protecting clients' constitutional rights throughout Michigan's criminal justice system.
People
Patrick S. Fragel
Attorney at Law
Accomplished criminal defense attorney with 25+ years of experience, including former prosecutor role. U.S. Army veteran and Michigan State Bar member. Specializes in defending serious criminal charges across Michigan, with notable acquittals in assault, OWI, and drug crime cases.
Questions
What should I do immediately after being charged with a crime in Michigan?
Contact our Traverse City office immediately for a free consultation. Avoid speaking to law enforcement without legal representation to protect your rights and prevent self-incrimination during police investigations.
How can a former prosecutor help with my criminal defense case?
Our attorney's prosecution experience provides unique insights into police tactics and prosecution strategies. This background enables more effective case preparation, evidence challenges, and negotiation with current prosecutors handling your case.
What are common defenses for assault charges in Michigan?
Common defenses include self-defense under Michigan's stand-your-ground law, lack of intent, witness credibility challenges, and evidence suppression. Our firm evaluates all available defenses to build the strongest case for assault charges.
Can OWI charges be reduced or dismissed in Michigan?
Yes, through challenges to breathalyzer accuracy, field sobriety test validity, and police procedure violations. Our firm has successfully obtained dismissals and reduced penalties for first-time and repeat OWI offenses across Michigan.
What are the consequences of a felony conviction in Michigan?
Felony convictions carry prison sentences, fines, and lifelong consequences including loss of voting rights, gun rights, and employment opportunities. Our firm works to minimize these impacts through charge reduction and alternative sentencing strategies.
How does the firm handle drug crime cases in Michigan courts?
We challenge evidence collection methods, lab analysis procedures, and constitutional violations. Our approach includes negotiating plea bargains, securing deferred sentences, and advocating for drug court alternatives to minimize long-term consequences for clients.
