North Star Lawyers

My practice is concentrated in representing employers and entrepreneurs in all aspects of employment and business law including severance, termination issues, non-compete disputes and in issues involving the protection of proprietary information.

I also represents employers in Fair Labor Standards Act disputes, including those with the Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division. I represent clients in complex commercial litigation regarding these issues at both the trial and appellate levels. A significant portion of my litigation experience has been in business breakups, corporate and partnership dissolutions, securities and shareholder disputes, and related valuation issues. My business litigation experience allows me to...

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...

I've focused my career on building successful businesses. Over the past decade I created several nationally recognized organizations in the technology, marketing and real estate industries. By accurately evaluating market opportunities, targeting customer needs, and developing differentiated solutions, Industry focus includes: -Law and Accounting Firms -B2B private corporations -Information Technology -Investment Banking, Venture Capital & Private Equity Selected Highlights: -Co-founder - Instadium.com -Co-founder - Website4you.com -Co-founder - GoWebBaby USA, LLC

Thomas D. Pascaris, Esq., is CEO of Pascaris Law Firm, PLLC. He received his bachelor’s in Finance, Business administration, and a minor in Political Science from the University of Michigan-Dearborn, and his Juris Doctor from Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Thomas specializes in many legal areas including Divorce, Bankruptcy, Estate Planning, and Business Formation and Transactions. Thomas holds a board seat on the City of Farmington Downtown Development Authority, and was recently selected as Dbusiness Magazine’s 30 in their 30 for 2018.

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,...

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....

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...

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.

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.

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...

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.

Representative cases: $1.9 Million settlement - Trip and fall down defective stairway causing spinal cord injury. $610,000.00 jury verdict - Contractor left open hole at worksite causing fractured ankle. $535,000.00 jury verdict - Car crash causing head injury. $1,500,000.00 jury verdict - No fault claims for injured child. $195,000.00 settlement - Slip and fall on ice at hotel causing fractured foot. $150,000 settlement - Slip and fall on clear water at restaurant causing rotator cuff tear.

William Maze is a Wayne County criminal defense attorney with nearly 20 years of experience. BA, The Citadel, Military College of South Carolina, 1992 JD, Wayne State University Law School, 1996 National College for DUI Defense National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan (President 2014-2015) Wayne County Criminal Defense Bar Association Downriver Bar Association Founding Member Darrow Criminal Defense Attorneys *Training & Awards* Published Michigan Supreme Court Victories Numerous Victories Before the Michigan Court of Appeals DBusiness Top Lawyers Super Lawyers People's Choice Award AVVO Graduate - National Criminal Defense College (NCDC) in...

Loren Dickstein is an aggressive, intelligent and effective criminal defense attorney in Southeastern Michigan. He is well respected by prosecutors and judges. His excellent reputation and advanced trial skills often result in resolutions to cases that other lawyers could not achieve. He deeply cares about his clients and always returns calls. Fields of practice Include: > State and federal criminal offenses (misdemeanors and felonies) > Traffic cases (traffic infractions, reckless driving, accidents, etc...) > OWI (drunk driving) > Child neglect/abuse defense/allegations > Domestic Violence > PPO's (Personal Protection Orders) > Driver License Restoration > Professional Licensing Complaints based upon criminal allegations. > Petitions for Removal of...

PrainLaw, PLLC is a Michigan Criminal Defense law office that is tirelessly seeking justice. We specifically concentrate on defending those accused of Assaultive crimes, including Assault, Assault and Battery, Domestic Violence (Domestic Assault), Sexual Assault (Criminal Sexual Conduct), Resisting and Obstructing, Felonious Assault, Stalking, Child Abuse, Homicide, and all other crimes that are Assaultive in nature. A graduate of the famed Gerry Spence's Trial Lawyers College, Brian has been nationally ranked a Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorney in Michigan by NACDA, Top 40 Trial Lawyer Under 40 by National Trial Lawyers, and can be seen in...

Attorney Keilen is licensed to practice law in the State of Michigan, the Federal US District Court for the Western District of Michigan, and the Federal US District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. Attorney Keilen is a Board Member and Attorney Representative for Kalamazoo Plus; he is an Advisory Board Member for the Michigan Medical Device Accelerator.

Attorney Keilen is a commercial litigator specializing in closely held business disputes; he is also the founder/owner of a local medical device company, giving him a unique appreciation for the legal issues in today’s business environment. Attorney Keilen has been a guest...

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...

My law office understands that when people hire an attorney, they are often experiencing very stressful situations. These people need someone who cares about them. As your lawyer, I make sure you receive high-quality legal services, but also the support and resources you deserve. I take the time to listen to your concerns and utilize my considerable skills and experience on your behalf.

For forty years K. Alexander of Alexander & Associates, P.C., has been providing expert legal assistance in diverse practice areas of Criminal law, Home Mortgage Defense and Real Estate law.

Overview: What our legal practice offers
• Our legal team...

Timothy Smith graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science/Pre-Law. He then earned his law degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law in downtown Detroit. During law school, Tim clerked for a metropolitan Detroit-based insurance defense firm. He was also fortunate to complete a federal judicial externship with the Honorable Bernard A. Friedman in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. Prior to joining the Mike Morse Law Firm in 2022, Tim was a successful litigator with more than 25 years of experience in...

Shawn Coppins is an aggressive litigation attorney and is one of the firm’s founding partners. Mr. Coppins was born and raised in the Metro-Detroit area. Prior to establishing Coppins Law Group, he was a litigation attorney at one of Michigan‘s largest law firms. Mr. Coppins also worked as a litigation attorney with one of Michigan's most well renowned Civil Rights Firms. Since his admission to the State Bar of Michigan, Shawn Coppins has represented clients in both State and Federal Court. Although many seem quick to criticize trial attorneys, their criticism ends when they find themselves...

John Kelsey is a shareholder at Goldberg, Persky & White, P.C and has represented hard-working men and women who are victims of asbestos exposure for over 20 years. Mr. Kelsey began his career as an assistant prosecuting attorney and his extensive trial experience led him to Goldberg, Persky, & White, where he put his skills to work representing those suffering from lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other asbestos-caused diseases. John Kelsey manages the firm’s Indiana asbestos docket and assists in the firm’s Michigan asbestos docket. Mr. Kelsey is a Top 10 Asbestos/Mesothelioma Trial Lawyer and a top 100 Trial Lawyer recognized...

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.

Education: Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Oakland University (2004) Honors: Graduated Cum Laude; Dean’s List; Golden Key International Honour Society. Juris Doctor from Wayne State University (2008) St. Thomas More Legal Society, President Honors: Graduated Cum Laude Associations: Member, State Bar of Michigan Member, Federal Bar Association Member, Chaldean American Bar Association

Attorney Shiraz K. Khan is a licensed Attorney and Counselor admitted to practice law in the State of Michigan, admitted to practice in the United States District Court - Eastern District of Michigan, a member of the State Bar of Michigan and registered with the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) under the United States Department of Justice. Attorney Shiraz Khan stands firmly for justice. He has been featured on CBS In The Morning and interviewed for CNN Newsroom with Brooke Baldwin. His legal opinions and statements have been cited in various articles of the New York Times, the...

Eric Hultman is a registered patent attorney with experience counseling corporations and individuals on a wide range of intellectual property and business matters. Mr. Hultman represents his clients on a broad spectrum of intellectual property issues, including patent, trade secret, trademark, and copyright and unfair competition matters. He has dealt with diverse patent matters including patent availability and non-infringement opinions, patent preparation, patent prosecution and litigation support. Prior to beginning his legal career, Mr. Hultman worked for eight years as a mechanical engineer, designing and testing automotive parts for Tier I automotive suppliers. Mr. Hultman is admitted to practice before the United States...

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.

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...

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.

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...