Michael H. Erlich

PRO

Michael H. Erlich

4.9
Rating: 9.9

Licensed for 33 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Worcester, MA
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Domestic Violence ... +2 more

47 Harvard Street, Worcester, MA

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About Michael

Biography

If you're thinking about hiring a lawyer, please take a moment and read my dad's client reviews.

If you're thinking about hiring a lawyer, please take a moment and read my dad's client reviews.

If you're thinking about hiring a lawyer, please take a moment and read my dad's client reviews.

If you're thinking about hiring a lawyer, please take a moment and read my dad's client reviews.

If you're thinking about hiring a lawyer, please take a moment and read my dad's client reviews.

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 30%

I devote all of my practice to those charged with crimes ranging from shoplifting to sexual assaults. I have significant experience in District, Superior & Juvenile Courts and was named Massachusetts Lawyer of the Year for a breakthrough Racial Profiling case invovling the Mass State Police. There are many lawyers out there that dabble in criminal defense. Whether you chose to have me represent you, please look for someone who devotes the majority of their practice to criminal defense.

35 years | 5,000 cases

30%
DUI and DWI 30%

I represent numerous OUI clients as you can see from my client reviews. Please read a few of them as a few of the most recent reviews deal with OUI's that I tried to jury verdicts in 4 different courts and two county's obtaining NOT GUILTY verdicts.You don't want a divorce lawyer in front of a jury for your OUI/DWI.

34 years | 1,000 cases

30%
Domestic Violence 20%

Not only do I defend domestic Assault & Battery and any other crimes involving violence to property but I will appear on your behalf for restraining orders whether your a defendant or a plaintiff.

35 years | 400 cases

20%
Violent Crime 15%

I have tried over the last 3 years 2 separate cases involving rape to jury verdicts in Superior Court. I have significant experience in Superior Court and defend probation violations as well. If you also have been arrested for weapons charges or have had your license to carry revoked by the Chief of Police in your town, I can help with that process.

31 years | 350 cases

15%
Speeding and Traffic Ticket 5%

5%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 45 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2022 2021 2020
...
+ 9
Top Contributor
Top Contributor
2013 2012

Licenses

Licensed in Massachusetts for 33 years

State: Massachusetts

Acquired: 1992

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Criminal Defense Worcester, PC

47 Harvard Street, Worcester, MA, 01609

criminaldefenseworcester.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find Michael online.

Michael H. Erlich's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

349 Client Reviews

Showing 46 - 50 of 79 reviews | Practice Area Knowledge

Posted by Michael | April 01, 2015 | Speeding & Traffic Ticket

Framingham Dist Ct

Excellent knowledge, well prepared. Attorney Erlich made a potentially expensive situation go away. With the cost of insurance and speed traps everywhere, hire someone who knows the law. I would recommend Attorney Erlich every time. He has been practicing law for over twenty years and has real tria...l experience. Many others do not. When you have to be in court, don't leave your future to a lesser experienced attorney.

Posted by anonymous | January 13, 2015 | Speeding & Traffic Ticket

Criminal Traffic / Moving Vehicle Citation - DISMISSED

Nobody referred me to Attorney Erlich. I found him on his web site from a Google search. My hope was that with his experience, relationships, and knowledge of the Worcester District Court, that he would be able to navigate me to a success. AND THAT'S EXACTLY WHAT HE DID I'm a family man who...'s just focussed on running his business and taking care of his family. My record included 1 speeding ticket many many years ago. That's it. I was 500 shades of completely anxious and distraught when I read that traffic ticket. Suddenly I was in a very serious situation with nothing but my word against the police officer's... And absolutely no desire to argue this in a trial. And my connections weren't really hooking me up with anyone who seemed to be a good criminal defense attorney. When I called Attorney Erlich, he responded immediately, interviewed me, and gave me a consultation over the phone. I met with him in his office a few days later to review my situation and decided to retain him. Wow... Am I happy I did. He was amazing! In the early stages, he was excellent counsel and let me know all the various things that could happen, including the worse case scenario. And THAT let me sleep at night. When we engaged the officers of the Court, he knew exactly who to talk to and how to seize on the right opportunities to mitigate the charges down. Today, after getting through an Arraignment, I no longer have to worry about a criminal citation. I highly recommend Attorney Erlich if you need someone who knows the Court, the law, and the fine people of Worcester District Court who have been keeping our community safe all these years.

Posted by Joe | October 26, 2014 | Criminal Defense

Assault with a dangerous weapon criminal harassment

During my situation Attorney Erlich put me at ease with his professional approach. I was charged with assault with a dangerous weapon. This charge was dismissed outright. Attorney Erlich worked a fair solution to the harassment charge which satisfied both parties and the circumstances of the case. I ...would recommend him to anyone looking for a hard working Attorney with a clear understanding of the system and criminal law. With empathy and caring he made me feel properly represented. His quick response to any questions I had made me feel connected. Highly recommended.

Posted by Stephen | September 10, 2014 | Criminal Defense

A very smart, professional, and savvy defense attorney

Mr. Erlich was very instrumental in helping me through a very difficult predicament brought upon me by a false accusation. Overall, his professionalism, his ability to cross-examine witnesses, his knowledge of the legal system, and his rapport with members of the criminal justice system in Central Ma...ssachusetts are just some qualities that make him an outstanding defense attorney. Mr. Erlich made me feel confident in my case, predicted the outcome well in advance, and acted quickly to make sure justice was served where it needed to be. He is highly intelligent, has great interpersonal skills, and understands his profession very well. I would definitely recommend Mr. Erlich.

Posted by anonymous | September 09, 2014 | Speeding & Traffic Ticket

Crosswalk tickets- outcome Not responsible

Myself and two of my colleagues got a crosswalk ticket at same place at the same time . My Elrich got all three of us out of it in no time ..No points. No penalties ...great person to work with .. Highly recommended

See All Client Reviews

Michael H. Erlich's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Michael
Steven Lewis Rovner headshot
Steven Rovner

Personal injury lawyer | Dec 15

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Known Michael for almost 20 years and he is an excellent advocate for his clients."

Anthony M Salerno headshot
Anthony Salerno

General practice lawyer | Dec 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney Erlich is a strong advocate for his clients. He is always prepared, he knows the law and his courtroom procedures are fawless."

Jordan Belliveau headshot
Jordan Belliveau

Criminal defense lawyer | May 30

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Lindsay N. Stewart headshot
Lindsay Stewart

Unknown lawyer | Jan 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Adam D. Schmaelzle headshot
Adam Schmaelzle

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jennifer T Currie headshot
Jennifer Currie

Criminal defense lawyer | May 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Gregory Paul Benoit headshot
Gregory Benoit

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 06

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Michael. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."

Michael P. Gerace headshot
Michael Gerace

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Awesome litigator."

Michael Mayer Franklin headshot
Michael Franklin

Criminal defense lawyer | May 24

Relationship: Friend

"I have known Michael both as a friend and as a colleague and highly recommend him as a criminal defense lawyer. He is always well prepared and fiercely fights for his clients."

Steven D. Power headshot
Steven Power

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Anthony J. Luzzo headshot
Anthony Luzzo

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

John Michael Goggins headshot
John Goggins

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. A very good lawyer. Highly respected in the Worcester legal community."

Corine K. Claxton headshot
Corine Claxton

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Mark Twombly Lee headshot
Mark Lee

Criminal defense lawyer | May 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Terri D. Leary headshot
Terri Leary

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Damian N. Riddle headshot
Damian Riddle

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Erlich is a well respected attorney among his peers. I have persoanlly had the opportunity to observe him in Court and he is a zealous advocate on behalf of his clients. Any client of Attorney Erlich will be well represented."

Laurie S Raphaelson headshot
Laurie Raphaelson

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael is a bright and creative attorney. I never hesitate to recommend Michael when someone is looking for a reliable, well-respected criminal attorney."

John Vigliotti headshot
John Vigliotti

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Nicole Rachael Moskowitz headshot
Nicole Moskowitz

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 23

Relationship: Friend

"I endorse this lawyer."

View All Endorsements
Adam D. Schmaelzle headshot
Adam Schmaelzle

Criminal defense lawyer

Lindsay N. Stewart headshot
Lindsay Stewart

Car accident lawyer

Jennifer T Currie headshot
Jennifer Currie

Juvenile law lawyer

Gregory Paul Benoit headshot
Gregory Benoit

Admiralty and maritime lawyer

Stephen W. Debs headshot
Stephen Debs

Real estate lawyer

Barbara S Liftman headshot
Barbara Liftman

Probate lawyer

Steven D. Power headshot
Steven Power

Criminal defense lawyer

James Joseph Kaeding headshot
James Kaeding

Criminal defense lawyer

Aaron H. Hutchins headshot
Aaron Hutchins

General practice lawyer

Julieanne Richard headshot
Julieanne Richard

Personal injury lawyer

Mark Twombly Lee headshot
Mark Lee

Divorce and separation lawyer

John Michael Goggins headshot
John Goggins

Criminal defense lawyer

Corine K. Claxton headshot
Corine Claxton

Criminal defense lawyer

Tania M. Palumbo headshot
Tania Palumbo

Immigration lawyer

Terri D. Leary headshot
Terri Leary

Unknown lawyer

Damian N. Riddle headshot
Damian Riddle

Criminal defense lawyer

Rose E. King headshot
Rose King

Criminal defense lawyer

Brian P. Burke headshot
Brian Burke

Criminal defense lawyer

Chester V. Shea III headshot
Chester Shea

Criminal defense lawyer

Laurie S Raphaelson headshot
Laurie Raphaelson

Divorce and separation lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.9 (Superb)

Honors

2020

Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2016

Top 10 Lawyer Client Satisfaction, American Institute of Legal Counsel

2016

Top Lawyers in Massachusetts, Legal Network

2016

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2004

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2003

Lawyer of the Year, Lawyers Weekly

2002

Courageous Advocacy Award, Worcester Bar Advocate Program

Work Experience

2015 - Present

President/Owner, Criminal Defense Worcester

2004 - 2015

Partner, Eden, Rafferty, Tetreau & Erlich

1992 - 2004

Partner, Erlich & Erlich

Associations

2002 - 2006

Worcester County Bar Advocates

President

1996 - 2009

Worcester County Bar Association

Executive Committee

Sample of Legal Cases

Assault & Battery With a Deadly Weapon Bullying

Dismissed

Aggravated Assault & Battery

Not Guilty both counts.

OUI (4th offense), Operating to Endanger

Not Guilty both counts.

Operating Under the Influence (3rd), Resisting Arrest, Disorderly Conduct, Assault & Battery (2 counts)

Probation 2 years. All Other Charges Dismissed.

Larceny, Receiving Stolen Property

1-Year House of Correction Suspended for 1 Year.

OUI (2nd Offense) .16 Breath Test, Operating to Endanger

Not Guilty both counts

Larceny over $250

CWOF 6 Months.

Larceny over $250 (Felony)

Dismissed

Probation Violation

Probation Continued

Breaking & Entering

Dismissed

Drug Offense-Possession Class B

Dismissed

Operating To Endanger

Dismissed

OUI (3rd offense)

Amended to 2nd offense

Restraining Order Hearing

Order Vacated

Assault & Battery, Assault & Battery With A Dangerous Weapon.

Dismissed

Commonwealth v. Holly

Jury Verdict Not Guilty

See More Legal Cases

Education

1992

University of Miami School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1987

Northeastern University

MBA - Master of Business Administration

1985

Nichols College

BSBA

Speaking Engagements

2006

Training

Criminal Defense

2003

O'Reilly Factor

Racial Profiling

Publications

2004

Lawyers weekly (Front page article Re Racial Profiling case) Cops Action Race-Based

2004

Boston.com Race Bias

Languages

Spanish

Portuguese

Activity

Top Contributor

Michael earned significant contribution points in 2013.

Avvo Rating

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Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution