Michael Ryan Working

Michael Ryan Working

also known as The Working Law Firm

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 20 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Memphis, TN
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Divorce & Separation

917 South Cooper, Memphis, TN

About Michael

Biography

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 50%

Mike Working is certified to handled any criminal case in Tennessee state court including capital murder cases. Though he handles many simple misdemeanors, like DUI, Mike often defends jury trials that last several days.

21 years | 3,000 cases

50%
DUI and DWI 30%

DUI is one of the most harsh laws in TN. The paperwork is more complicated than a first-degree murder, and a conviction can have devastating consequences. Mike Working teaches legal education class for lawyers across the state of Tennessee to become better DUI lawyers. The law of DUI changes so often, that it takes true expertise to advise a client what to do. Mike Working has that expertise.

21 years | 200 cases

30%
Divorce and Separation 20%

Nothing is worse than the loss of family, the loss of stability, and the loss of one's home and children. Divorce lawyers often see good people at their worst. We guide you through a difficult process as well as possible. Divorces must be done right, or they never end. Custody disputes, alimony, and visitation rights can be re-litigated for years. Our goal is to do it right the first time, so that it is the only time.

21 years | 200 cases

20%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Hourly Rates

$ 150-250 per hour


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in Tennessee for 20 years

State: Tennessee

Acquired: 2006

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Law Offices of Michael Ryan Working

917 South Cooper, Memphis, TN, 38104

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Michael Ryan Working's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

21 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (21) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 1 - 5 of 7 reviews | Responsiveness

Posted by Coynick | June 29, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

#1 Attorney

After I loss my case with a different attorney and I was given a life sentence, I hired Mr. Michael Working. That was the best decision that I have made in my life. After he agreed to do my appeal, he kept me informed on my case while it was in the appeal status. In one year after my conviction, Mr. ...Working won my appeal and I was granted a new trial. It was a blessing from God that led me to Mr. Working. Of course I retained him for my trial. He hired a private investigator and personally took pictures of scene where the incident happened. He was absolutely amazing the way he defended me and listened to me. The way he defended me during trial was breathtaking at the least. He really defended me with everything he had. We won! My charges were reduce and I walked out of jail that day with time served. I went from being carried out of jail in a wooden box (life sentence) to walking out free. Words can never express how much gratitude I have for Mr. Working, but I thank him with all my heart and soul. Because of him, I am free to watch my daughter grow up (she was born while I was incarcerated). I served almost 6 years in prison (most of it waiting on my initial trial), and now I am free. I would recommend Mr. Michael Working to anybody in search of a good attorney. He is definitely the best in Memphis.

Posted by Tony | October 31, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Tough, smart attorney

I retained Mike immediately after a recent arrest. He was thorough, supportive, and totally on point. Knows his stuff front and back when it comes not only to the law, but to the people in Shelby County who administer "justice." He knows the system. He has worked in the area for a long time. He is un...afraid. He is also straight shooter with this clients. Mike will look you in the eye and tell you what he thinks, straight up. My case turned out really well, and I would absolutely call him if I ever need to again. His staff - in particular Erica - are extremely cordial and responsive. At this point, I call him "my attorney." And that's cause he's earned my trust.

Posted by Christopher | September 15, 2015 | Hired Attorney

integrity, honest, charismatic!

Always on top of his game, extremely professional, very friendly! His colleagues as well as Mr. Working were more knowledgeable of the process than I was which made me feel comfortable knowing I was in good hands. When I had questions or concerns I could call his office someone was always there to an...swer them. A really standup individual you can count on.

Posted by anonymous | June 16, 2015 | DUI & DWI

DUI

I found Mr. Working from looking on the internet for an attorney to handle a DUI. I needed an attorney the next day to appear in court with my son. He was able to handle the case the next day and followed it through to the end. We got a very positive conclusion. I highly recommend Mr. Working and... his staff, very efficient and professional.

Posted by Julie | April 23, 2015 | Divorce & Separation

Highly Recommend

Everybody has advice during a divorce. He was the third attorney i consulted, in an effort to walk the shortest bed of coals possible; was not disappointed. Mike is calm, patient, very knowledgeable in this area and just plain smart. He couldn't return my initial call until the evening, but, eve...n at the end of a long day, listened patiently and was very engaged. He made the whole process much less contentious and exhausting than it should have been. I was glad to have him in my corner.

See All Client Reviews

Michael Ryan Working's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Michael
George F. Lannom headshot
George Lannom

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Michael has an unmatched passion for his clients who stand accused in our often unfair criminal justice system. He represents the poor and the wealthy with equal enthusiasm. Is he a good lawyer, yes but even more importantly he deeply cares for those who stands accused of crimes. A real, talented, caring attorney."

Eric Hamilton Espey headshot
Eric Espey

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Mr. Working since law school. He works hard at everything he does, and takes his responsibilities to his clients' interests very seriously."

Andre Courtney Wharton headshot
Andre Wharton

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 27

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Michael Working is truly a five-star lawyer. When you think of an true advocate, you want a lawyer who knows the law, argues the law and believes in the law. Michael does all three for his clients. His abilities are superb and he is a shining star working for justice everyday throughout Shelby County and beyond. I fully endorse Mike for his superior abilities, his legal acumen and his commitment to fighting injustice in any form."

Jesse Pratt Lords headshot
Jesse Lords

Unknown lawyer | Feb 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael is a highly skilled and respected attorney."

Robert Samuel Gilligan headshot
Robert Gilligan

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jan 06

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Sean Cleary headshot
Sean Cleary

Contracts and agreements lawyer | Dec 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. A brilliant, trustworthy and highly respected attorney in the legal community."

Jennifer Danielle Fitzgerald headshot
Jennifer Fitzgerald

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Christian K. Lassen II headshot
Christian Lassen

Unknown lawyer | Aug 31

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."

Howard M Lewis headshot
Howard Lewis

Divorce and separation lawyer | Aug 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Workign is one of the finest attorneys in his state, I highly recommend his legal services."

Francis M Ciardi headshot
Francis Ciardi

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

William W Housley headshot
William Housley

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Tough, talented and thorough litigator."

Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Criminal defense lawyer | May 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Terita Hewlett headshot
Terita Hewlett

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

William Alton Young Jr. headshot
William Young

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Ruchee Janardan Patel headshot
Ruchee Patel

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Andrew Robert Edward Plunk headshot
Andrew Plunk

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mike is a top-notch attorney. He fights for the rights of his clients, both in and out of court. He can handle the toughest cases and get the best results possible."

Tawanda Marie Williams headshot
Tawanda Williams

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I don't know Mr. Working personally, however, from a professional standpoint, I've seen the quality of his work and the professionalism he exudes. During my stint as a Public Defender, I was able to view the legal services being provided by many Private Attorneys and Mr. Working was among the few that stood head and shoulders among the rest. Mr. Working is extremely knowledgeable about the law and its application!"

James Robin McKinney Jr headshot
James McKinney

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I meet Mr. Working several years ago . We are both active in the Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers . He is a true warrior for the accused ."

Timothy J. Vanderweert headshot
Timothy Vanderweert

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jan 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael is an excellent DUI attorney. I recommend him highly."

Thomas Randel Greer headshot
Thomas Greer

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mike's courtroom demeanor, intelligence, creativity, and charisma make him a force to be reckoned with. He is without a doubt one of the best criminal defense lawyers in Memphis. Mike is a fighter, a true champion for justice, but he always treats people with respect and dignity. As a result, Mike has earned and deserves the admiration of his adversaries, colleagues, and even judges."

View All Endorsements
Andre Courtney Wharton headshot
Andre Wharton

Personal injury lawyer

Iclem Jaber headshot
Iclem Jaber

Criminal defense lawyer

Patrick Ryan Barnes headshot
Patrick Barnes

Criminal defense lawyer

James Robin McKinney Jr headshot
James McKinney

Criminal defense lawyer

Marcos M. Garza headshot
Marcos Garza

DUI and DWI lawyer

Thomas Randel Greer headshot
Thomas Greer

Personal injury lawyer

Ann C. Short headshot
Ann Short

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2015

Robert Ritchie Award, TN Assoc. Crim. Defense Attorneys

2013

Lawyer of the Month, Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

2013

Workhorse Award, Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

2005

CALI Award Juvenile Law, CALI Award

2005

Dean's Award of Excellence - Religion and the Law, University of Memphis

2003

CALI Award Torts II, CALI Award

Work Experience

2006 - Present

Attorney, The Working Law Firm

2006 - 2006

Attorney, Small Business Administration

Associations

2018 - Present

Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Executive Treasurer

2014 - Present

St. Thomas More Catholic Lawyer's Guild

President

2013 - Present

Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Publications Committee

Member

2012 - Present

Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, CLE Committee

Member

2012 - Present

Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Board of Directors

2011 - Present

Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Membership Committee

Committee Member

2011 - Present

Memphis Blues Society

Board of Directors

2011 - Present

American Bar Association

Member

2009 - Present

Memphis Bar Association, Criminal Law Section

member

2006 - Present

Blues Foundation

Member

2001 - Present

Knights of Columbus

Knight of the Fourth Degree

2017 - 2018

TN Assoc. Criminal Defense Attorneys

Executive Secretary

2010 - 2013

St. Thomas More Guild

Board of Directors

2009 - 2018

Memphis Bar Association

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

State vs LD

Not Guilty

State of TN vs. T.A.

not guilty

State of TN vs. R.C.

Concurrent sentence

State of TN vs. D.W.

Not Guilty

State of Tennessee vs. George Cowans

misdemeanor

State of Tennessee vs. Sherman Gaters

not guilty

State of Tennessee vs. Pietro Daniele

Not Guilty

See More Legal Cases

Education

2014

Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College

Capital Defense College

2013

Tennessee Capital Defense College

Capital Defense Certification

2012

Tennessee Capital Mitigation CLE

Capital Defense Certification

2010

Tennessee Criminal Defense College

2005

University of Memphis - Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor cum laude

Speaking Engagements

2017

TACDL Annual Meeting

Disqualification of Judges and Prosecutors

2016

Memphis Bar Association Year End CLE

The Ethics of "Better Call Saul"

2014

University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law

Restoration of Citizenship Rights

2014

TACDL DUI College

Framing Issues for Juries

2014

Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law

Reentry and Recidivism

2014

2014 Catholic Voter's Forum

Voter's Forum

2013

Traditions of the World

Italian Culture at Christmas

2013

The Memphis ItalinFest

Italian Food Chef Demonstration

2013

Practical Law Class

The Jury Trial

2013

2013 DUI College

Legal Issue Spotting

2012

The Memphis ItalianFest

Italian Food Chef Demonstration

2012

The International Blues Challenge

Campaign to Raise the Roof

2012

Memphis Round Table

Attacking the Tennessee Firearm Statutes

2011

The Memphis ItalianFest

Italian Food Chef Demonstration

2010

The Memphis ItalianFest

Italian Food Chef Demonstration

2009

Wooddale High School

Traffic Stops - What You Need to Know

Publications

2014

For The Defense (TACDL) ID Suppression: Endangered Constitutional Species, or Extinct?

2014

For The Defense (TACDL) Ray Fraley Interview

2014

For The Defense (TACDL) An Interview with Rob McKinney

2013

For The Defense (TACDL) An Interview with Sam Perkins

2013

For The Defense (TACDL) An Interview with Mike Whalen

2013

For The Defense (TACDL) An Interview With Ann Short

Activity

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Avvo Rating Levels
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