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Michael M. Hawkins

DUI and DWI Attorney at Atlanta, GA

4.9   35 reviews

also known as Mike Hawkins

About Michael

Learn Michael’s areas of practice.

Mr. Hawkins is Board Certified in DUI Defense by the National College for DUI Defense (NCDD).  Georgia Super Lawyer® designated 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020 as featured in Atlanta Magazine.  Frequently selected as a Top 100 Lawyer in Georgia, and twice named "Lawyer of the Year" in DUI Defense by Best Lawyers in America. Elected to the NCDD Board of Regents in 2008, served Dean of the NCDD from 2017-18. Prior to devoting his practice to defending driving under the influence cases, Mr. Hawkins served as a prosecutor for nearly five years in the metropolitan Atlanta area. He has served as lead counsel on more than 200 cases at trial and has successfully avoided convictions prior to trial for hundreds of clients.  Listed in Best Lawyers in America and in Best Lawyers in Georgia as featured by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Photos and videos

Board Certified in DUI Defense
Attorney Michael M. Hawkins
Licensed for 30 years
State GA
Status Active Member in Good Standing
Acquired 1992
Updated 05/03/2023

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact Michael

Similar lawyers nearby

Hawkins Spizman Fortas, LLC
200 Ashford Center N
Suite 350
Atlanta, GA, 30338

Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  35 customer reviews
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Posted by anonymous | May 22, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best of the best
Mr Hawkins is a consummate professional! He got my DUI reduced to reckless driving which ultimately saved my career, which means 2.6 million dollars over next 10 years. Thank you sir for everything! I highly recommend him and this firm.
Posted by anonymous | September 13, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Attentive, Professional and Charismatic
Michael Hawkins was attentive and transparent during the whole process. Even with a damning piece of evidence that the prosecutors held against my case, Mike was able to navigate through the legal process with ease with his experience. My charge was reduced greatly reduced, license was not suspended, and I was not convicted of DUI. Mike was honest and transparent with my doubts and questions, providing some comfort during a trying time.
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Posted by anonymous | August 24, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
TOP NOTCH LAWYER
If ever in legal trouble with a DUI offense(s), Mike Hawkins is the one to retain! From the initial office visit through the entire legal process, Mike worked relentlessly (even through the pandemic) to ensure that I receive the best possible outcome. Without his expertise, dedication & vast networking, my outcome could’ve been much worse. Thanks to him, not only was my charge reduced to reckless driving, he also was able to negotiate a conditional discharge to have my record cleaned, and have my license reinstated. My career, family & financial livelihood could have been devastating had I not received such a favorable outcome. I may never be able to thank Mike enough for everything he has done!
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Posted by anonymous | August 19, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Absolute Pro!
Mike Hawkins is a God send!! Given my driving history I did not know what to expect after my last arrest. Mike met with me at his office and gave me a rundown of different scenarios of what could happen. He explained how to get on top of the case by finishing up things the judge would sentence you to. This along with Mike's connections throughout Atlanta had my charges reduced and kept me out of jail. This is the best experience I have ever had with a lawyer and I've met a few. Mike made time for me even on his vacation. Five stars! Absolute Pro! Professional staff! I can't thank you enough Mike! If you are facing big trouble with a DUI arrest, do yourself a favor and hire Mike Hawkins immediately.
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Posted by Michael | May 23, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommended!
I was referred to Attorney Hawkins by a friend following a DUI for which I was charged in February 2021. I was unsure and unknowledgeable about the legal processes; however, Attorney Hawkins invited me to his office within days of my consultation and assuaged my concerns, taking the time to teach me everything I needed to know about the situation I placed myself in and what I'd need to expect (e.g., scenarios and outcomes) during the coming months. He never made promises, but he remained confident, which gave me hope, and I couldn't have asked for a better advocate at the negotiating table. While he's a prominent lawyer and commands respect in the courtroom given the sheer amount of cases he's successfully resolved, he treated me as though I was his most important case. Attorney Hawkins attended all virtual court appearances, oftentimes even on my behalf, and my plea (i.e., DUI reduced to Reckless Driving) was arranged before my official court date a mere year later, so that I was already aware of the manageable legal requirements - such as fines, probation, community service, etc. - needed to continue on with my life. I couldn't recommend him more highly; Attorney Hawkins has certainly earned his reputation as a top-notch defense attorney.
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Posted by Kris | March 9, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Lawyer Experience to Date
So I was referred to Mike thru a friend who had a DUI that said he was the best person to get me the outcome that I wanted for the charge. I reached out and from the very beginning the communication was superb which I can say from dealing with TONS of lawyers of the years for various reasons was a breath of fresh air. I sat with Mike and explained the situation with him as well as his partner and they broke down everything to me in extensive detail. I was convinced immediately that I would be hiring him and that is with him being the first and only lawyer I met with. Over the course of the next few months (and even longer due to the pandemic) everything that Mike described could happen as an outcome did and in the end I got exactly what I wanted. The best thing about Mike in my opinion is that he strives to ensure that you actually understand the legal side that I think too many lawyers gloss over and just expect you to blindly trust. I would recommend Mike to pretty much anyone who is in need (and is in state that he practices in) because if you want the best outcome he is definitely the man for the job.
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Posted by anonymous | February 16, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Service and Exceeded Expectations - DUI Case
Mike represented me in a DUI single car accident. I had a high BAC and a prior DUI charge. The prosecutors were pushing for 30-days in jail. This was deeply concerning as at the time more than a week away from work would derail my career. Through Mike's deep knowledge and relationships, Mike directed and guided me through the steps to give us the best the chance for success. Mike's counseling got my sentence down from 30-days in jail to ZERO jail time and 200-hours of community service. I was already more than satisfied, but then on our court date, Mike further negotiated my community service hours down from 200 to 40... I honestly couldn't believe it. This was a huge weight off of my shoulders. My sentence includes a limited driving permit for 4 months, and a year probation, only having to call to check in once a month and ZERO probation costs. Much of my fees were waived by the judge, whom Mike has a great relationship with as well. Regarding Mike's professionalism and service, he was on top of everything and very responsive. He always returned calls in a timely manner—if he didn't answer the phone right away, which most of the time he did—and he was even reachable by text. I had a lot of questions and liked to stay "in-the-know", and Mike was very accommodating and made sure I was always kept up-to-date. I highly recommend hiring Mike to represent you.
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Posted by Rick | September 24, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Traffic Ticket
I used Mike Hawkins recently to keep my CDL license clean when I was given a failure to maintain lane ticket when I swerved to miss hitting a deer. His office is very professional and responsive as we have used them previously also. He was able to get the ticket completely dropped. If you are in need of a lawyer I highly recommend him!
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Posted by anonymous | August 16, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DUI
I had attorney Michael Hawkins for my DUI case. Mr. Hawkins went above and beyond for me which ultimately gave me a successful outcome. He understands the person before the offense. He was very accessible and professional during my initial meeting and gave me great advice. Michael Hawkins is a top man and an invaluable resource when it comes to the courtroom. I highly recommend him and his trustworthy firm.
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Posted by anonymous | May 15, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best DUI Attorney in State of Georgia
I had attorney Mr. Hawkins for my DUI case. In general, DUI is very difficult to deal with. Mr. Hawkins made significant effort . He was very accessible, diligent, and dependable when I went to him. Mr. Michael Hawkins was invaluable resource when it came to protecting my rights in the courtroom. His attention to detail and knowledge of laws are unsurpassed. I highly recommend him.
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Posted by Rey | March 25, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DUI case
Mike Hawkins just handled my DUI case and was able to keep a DUI off of my record and allowed me to retain my license. If your license and record are important to you, I strongly recommend him as your representation! DUI cases are not cheap but he is worth every penny.
Posted by Cruz | June 15, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Dui
It was a pleasure to work with Mr Hawkins. He was always very optimistic which showed how much experience he has with career as a Dui Lawyer. He made sure that I was well taken care of In terms of the end result of the case. I would highly recommend him as he has a great deal of experience in his work field. Michael has a great attitude and also gives you a clear understanding of any questions you may have. He puts your doubts to rest and deals with your case in a timely manner.
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Posted by James | May 20, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mike Hawkins Exceeded my Expectations
Mr. Hawkins was able to resolve my case resulting in lesser fine and did not require me to appear in court, no court fees. In light of the COVID 19 pandemic, I was very happy not having to appear in court. Thank you Mike Hawkins.
Posted by anonymous | April 9, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Desired Outcome
Mike helped me achieve basically the best case scenario considering my situation (1st DUI within 5 years, 2nd within 10 years). I am happy with the results, as the charge was knocked down to reckless driving, and I would strongly recommend him to anyone that needs legal help. Very communicative and straight forward throughout the process.
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Posted by anonymous | July 16, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very helpful and excellent outcome!
Mr. Hawkins was excellent from the start. Agreed to meet with me very quickly after my initial call, and from there outlined the plan for how to fight the DUI charge against me. At each stage he let me know what was happening and what was next. He was able to work to limit the admissible evidence pretrial. When the prosecutor was not offering a reasonable deal he looked at the options with me, took the case to trial, and won. Clearly an expert in his field as other lawyers came to the courtroom to listen to his arguments. If you are in need of a DUI attorney I would definitely recommend Mr. Hawkins.
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Posted by Joe | April 9, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mike got it done for my son
My son is 18 and looking to go to a great college. He got pulled over for .06 and also a possession charge. Reduced to disorderly conduct and failure to obey a traffic device. We were convinced before Mike my son would lose his License. That did not happen and nothing on his record - so college is still a go. And he got it done in just a few months - so we could move past this. I give my highest recommendation.
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Posted by anonymous | April 3, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Did an excellent job - would 100% recommend
I hired Mike after being charged with a DUI for refusing a breathalyzer test. He was able to get the charge reduced to a reckless driving, and I never lost my ability to drive throughout the process. He was responsive to all my questions during the case and worked directly with the arresting officer and prosecutor to come to an agreement that we were all on board with. He also kept the case from going to trial, which would have been an absolute nightmare. His hard work behind the scenes allowed me to rest easy and get through one of the toughest situations I've ever been in. He is a very knowledgeable and connected attorney, and I 100% recommend him to anyone who is in my situation or facing any sort of DUI or DWI charge.
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Posted by SM | March 13, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best DUI Attorney
I was facing DUI charge even though my BAC was within the legal limit. I initially went with a different attorney, but didn't get the confidence if I can win the case. After careful research, I chose to use Mike Hawkins legal services. And it was one of my best decisions. Mike is very knowledgeable, very responsive and answered all my questions. And most importantly he got my case DISMISSED!!! I was very happy and glad that I chose him as my attorney. I highly recommend Mike Hawkins.
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Posted by anonymous | March 13, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
March 2019 Post- Elliot
Michael was responsive, considerate and very tactical in his approach to my situation which resulted in a reversal my situation. I am VERY appreciative of his efforts.
Posted by anonymous | February 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Well respected down to earth lawyer
I was referred by Brian Steele to Michael Hawkins. I had two pending dui’s in Cobb county and Fulton county. During my time working with him I got straight forward answers and gave me the best possible plea and got the cases settled as fast as possible with minimizing damage. I am VERY SATISFIED with the service provided. Unfortunately I will not be getting in trouble so i will not be using his services as I won’t be getting into any trouble but nonetheless I consider him a good friend now. Well worth the money spent.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Senior Partner
  • Hawkins Spizman Fortas, LLC
  • 2019 - Present
  • Principal
  • The Hawkins Law Firm
  • 2008 - Present
  • Managing Partner
  • Hawkins Spizman Kilgo, LLC
  • 2016 - 2019
  • Partner
  • The Chestney-Hawkins Law Firm
  • 1998 - 2008
  • Associate
  • The Chestney Law Firm
  • 1996 - 1998
  • Assistant District Attorney
  • Rockdale County District Attorney
  • 1994 - 1996
  • Assistant Solicitor
  • DeKalb County Solicitor-General
  • 1992 - 1994
View all work experience

Education

  • Emory University School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1992
  • University of Alabama - Tuscaloosa (main campus)
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1989

Legal Cases

  • State v. Maranda Ayers
  • Roadblock was declared unconstitutional.

Associations

  • NCDD Board Certification Committee
  • Chairperson
  • 2012 - Present
  • National College for DUI Defense
  • Regent
  • 2008 - Present
  • DeKalb Bar Association
  • President
  • 2006 - 2007
  • National College of DUI Defense
  • Sustaining Member
  • 2006 - 2017
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2000 - 2017
  • Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 1996 - 2017
  • State Bar of Georgia
  • Member
  • 1992 - 2017
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Best Lawyers in America
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2016
  • Top 100 Lawyers in Georgia
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2016
  • Top 100 Lawyers in Georgia
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2015
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2015
  • Top 100 Lawyers in Georgia
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Lawyer of the Year - DUI Defense
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2014
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2014
  • Top 100 Lawyers in Georgia
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2013
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2012
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2011
  • Georgia Super Lawyers
  • Atlanta Magazine
  • 2010
  • Best Lawyers in Georgia
  • Atlanta Journal Constitution
  • 2010
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2010
  • The Best NACDL Speakers of 2009
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • 2009
  • Georgia Super Lawyer
  • Atlanta Magazine
  • 2009
  • Georgia Super Lawyers
  • Atlanta Magazine
  • 2008
  • Elected to the Board of Regents
  • National College for DUI Defense
  • 2008
  • Georgia Super Lawyers
  • Atlanta Magazine
  • 2007
  • Georgia Super Lawyers
  • 2006
  • Certificate of Recognition
  • National College for DUI Defense
  • 2006
  • Georgia Super Lawyers
  • 2005
  • Georgia Super Lawyers
  • 2004
  • Certificate of Recognition
  • National College for DUI Defense
  • 2003
  • Certificate of Recognition
  • National College for DUI Defense
  • 2002
  • Board Certification
  • National College for DUI Defense
  • 2001
View all awards

Publications

  • Drinking/Driving Litigation: Criminal and Civil
  • Attacking HGN Evidence
  • 2007
  • Drunk Driving Defense
  • Preparing for Plan B: Sentencing in DUI Cases
  • 2005

Speaking Engagements

  • National College for DUI Defense
  • Closing Arguments That Win
  • 2008
  • Defense of Drinking Drivers Institute
  • Cross-Examination Techniques
  • 2008
  • DUI Means Defend With Ingenuity Seminar
  • DUI Defense
  • 2007
  • NCDD Summer Session
  • DUI Defense
  • 2006
  • Mastering Science Seminar
  • DUI Defense
  • 2006
  • GACDL Fall Seminar
  • DUI Defense
  • 2006
  • DUI Means Defend With Ingenuity Seminar
  • DUI Defense
  • 2006
  • DUI Means Defend With Ingenuity Seminar
  • DUI Defense
  • 2005
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (38)
Given (21)
Endorse Michael
DUI and DWI Attorney | Oct 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Michael is an outstanding lawyer that does a first rate job for all of his clients. I highly respect his opinion and frequently call on him for his invaluable assistance on DWI cases. Great lawyer, great guy!"
DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I strongly endorse Mike. He works hard and is ethical. He is an exceptional attorney and works tirelessly for his clients clients."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mike is one of the top DUI attorneys in Atlanta. He gets great results for his clients. I highly recommend Mike to anyone charged with DUI."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 15
Relationship: Co-worker
"Mike is known as one of the most experienced and well-respected DUI attorneys in the State of Georgia. He is one of four Board Certified Defense Attorneys in the State and carries a wealth of knowledge that allows him to represent his clients at a high level. He works tirelessly for his clients to ensure they are protected and represented in any scenario. I confidently recommend Mike to anyone accused of DUI's or other serious driving cases."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 05
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Michael is without a doubt one of the top three DUI lawyers in the State of Georgia, if not the best. Michael has established himself through his hard-work, professionalism and successful results on behalf of his clients. He is known both in Georgia and nationally for his work and quite simply is a gentleman to deal with. I don't give out my endorsement to many lawyers but I can tell you with confidence that Michael Hawkins is an attorney I myself wouldn't hesitate using if I needed help with a DUI or traffic case."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He's one of the finest in the state. If you need him, he can help you without a doubt."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Oct 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"My experience with Mike Hawkins is through the National College for DUI Defense, where Mike is a highly respected member. I have also met and seen Mike present at numerous DUI related CLEs around the country. I highly recommend Mike."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mike Hawkins is widely regarded as one of the most studied and most effective DUI attorneys in the state. I have learned a lot from Mike's lectures, as he is a frequent speaker all over the nation. I would not hesitate to send anyone seeking a DUI attorney to Mike."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Hawkins is widely respected and held in the highest regard in every Court in Metro Atlanta. Michael is respected among his colleagues of the D.U.I. and Criminal Defense bars of Georgia. I endorse and HIGHLY recommend this competent, professional, and RESPECTED D.U.I. defense attorney."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mike Hawkins is the man. He can cross on a DUI case like nobody else. He taught me at the Harvard Summer Session in July. He was my breakout group leader. He is one of the most talked about DUI lawyers in Georgia. His techniques for cross-examination in DUI cases are awesome. Thank You for everything! I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mike is a good friend. Mike Hawkins and Gus McDonald took me under their wing when I was a band new lawyer, and helped me develop into a better lawyer. He has always been willing to share his knowledge and expertise, and I am grateful for that. He is not only recognized as one of the best lawyers in the State, but he is widely known as one of the best lawyers in the country. Mike is at the top of the food chain."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Michael Hawkins is a phenomenal trial attorney and a top tier DUI defense attorney. He routinely achieves amazing results for his clients and makes it look easy. I have had the pleasure of watching him in action and I am always amazed at his preparation, skill, knowledge and tenacity in representing his clients. Mr. Hawkins is a zealous advocate for his clients and an asset to the profession."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mike Hawkins is one of this country's top dwi attorneys. He was my successor as Regent to the National College for Dui Defense, and that organization could have picked no one better. Mike is also one of the highest rated speakers on defense topics in the country. He has my highest recommendation."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. I know Michael to be a highly dedicated, knowledgeable, and aggressive criminal defense attorney, with substantial experience in DUI defense. As a fellow member of the criminal defense bar, I am proud to have Michael as a colleague and recommend his services without hesitation. He is top notch."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Having been a member of the National College for DUI Defense for over 10 years now, and as an annual attendee of two to three national DUI defense seminars, I have been privileged to get to know many of our nation's finest DUI defense attorneys. Mike Hawkins is undoubtedly amongst this select group. His reputation for professional excellence far exceeds the borders of Georgia. His reputation as a well trained, experienced, ultra talented yet deeply compassionate, DUI defense attorney is not only national but matched by very few. I proudly and loudly endorse Mike Hawkins. The citizen accused could be in no better hands. Period. The fact that he is a personal friend is but a bonus."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mike is a superb lawyer and a great person. He is a zealous advocate with a heart and a dedication to seeing justice done. I unequivocally endorse Mike."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 11
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I highly endorse this lawyer's work. Mike Hawkins is an outstanding DUI attorney, deffinitely one of the best in his field. I have overheard Mike being discussed by police officers as conducting, "the toughest cross-examination." High praise indeed for a deserving attorney."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Feb 16
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer's work. I have had the privilege of seeing Mike Hawkins speak at national DUI defense seminars and it is obvious that Mike not only has a white-knuckled grip of the law, but he is also extremely creative and energetic in his approach to DUI defense. I am a better lawyer for having seen his presentations on DUI defense!"
DUI and DWI Attorney | Feb 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"The hardest working lawyer in this State. Mike has the connections, legal mind and skill to take the worst case and get phenomenal results. When you leave the courtroom you can see the faces of the prosecution wondering what just happened. If you want results he is the lawyer to hire bar none. Quick, detailed and dedicated to his clients. His ethics keep him at the pinnacle of the defense bar. You can trust him to do what he says always. The prosecutors of this state know that he means business and as a result his clients benefit greatly. You can not go wrong, his wit and passion will carry the day!"
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Criminal defense
Criminal defense
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
Wrongful death
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense
Personal injury
DUI and DWI
Atlanta DUI and DWI Lawyer Michael M. Hawkins
Michael M. Hawkins
DUI and DWI Attorney
Atlanta, GA
Licensed for 30 years
Free Consultation