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Barton W. Morris Jr.

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also known as Barton Morris
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Avvo Rating10
  • Royal Oak, MI
  • Licensed for 22 years
  • Free consultation
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Barton W. Morris Jr.
Barton W. Morris Jr.
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About Barton

Barton Morris is Michigan’s only Forensic Lawyer-Scientist designated by the American Chemical Society and has been providing high-quality legal representation in the area of state and federal criminal defense for 20+ years for DUI/OWI Charges, Drug Crimes, Violent Crime, and more.

Michigan Criminal Defense Attorney Barton Morris is the founder and principal attorney at The Law Offices of Barton Morris. Backed by over 20 years of legal experience, he has a comprehensive understanding of this complex area of law. He can proficiently guide you throughout every stage of the criminal proceedings while helping you make sound decisions about the future. Attorney Morris is the only Michigan Forensic Lawyer-Scientist designated by the American Chemical Society. He is 1 of only 22 attorneys in the nation to have earned this distinction. This designation means that he has in-depth knowledge of forensic evidence and how to attack it. He also is highly effective at what he does, garnering numerous accomplishments and awards throughout his career. Attorney Morris is rated 10 by AVVO and has been selected to Super Lawyers® in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018. Call and schedule a free consultation. 

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Practice areas

DUI and DWIViolent crimeCriminal defenseDrug Crime
  1. Drug Crime: 30%

    I have spent 20+ years perfecting drug crime defense. I have specialized knowledge in breath and blood testing, field sobriety testing and DUI law. I have also received specialized training in drugged driving.

    22 years

  2. Criminal defense: 30%

    My criminal practice specilizes in defending persons charged with all misdemeanors and felonies. I also help people restore their license privileges. I have conducted 50+ jury trials with favorable results for a high percentage of them.

    22 years

  3. Violent crime: 20%

    My firm specializes in Domestic Violence cases, including Domestic Assault and Aggravated Assault. We understand that emotions run high when it comes to matters of the home and family. We will fight for you, including going to trial if needed.

    22 years

  4. DUI and DWI: 20%

    I have spent 20+ years perfecting DUI defense. I have specialized knowledge in breath and blood testing, field sobriety testing and DUI law. I have also received specialized training in drugged driving.

    22 years

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

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Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
MIActive And In Good Standing199802/21/2021
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers6
Legal guides11
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
Top Lawyers in Metro Detroit - 2020dbusiness2020
Top Lawyers in Metro Detroit - 2019dbusiness2019
Super LawyerSuper Lawyers Magazine2019
Super Lawyer in Criminal DefenseSuper Lawyers Magazine2018
Super Lawyer in Criminal DefenseSuper Lawyers Magazine2017
Super Lawyer in Criminal DefenseSuper Lawyers Magazine2016
Super Lawyer in Criminal DefenseSuper Lawyers Magazine2015
ACS Lawyer-ScientistAmerican Chemical Society - Chemistry and Law Division2014
Top Lawyers in Metro Detroit - 2014dbusiness2014
Super Lawyer in Criminal DefenseSuper Lawyers Magazine2014
Top Lawyers in Metro Detroit - 2013dbusiness2013
Top Lawyers in Metro Detroit - 2012dbusiness2012
Trial Practice College GraduateCriminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan2010
National Criminal Defense College GraduateNational Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers2000
Straker Scholarship ReceipientThe D. Agustus Straker Bar Association1998
Excellence for the Future ArardCALI1997
The Harold H. & Marion T. Gordon AwardMichigan State University College of Law1997
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
PrincipalCannabis Legal Group2016 - Present
Trial AttorneyThe Law Offices Of Barton Morris2000 - Present
Trial AttorneyAmbrose & Associates1998 - 1999
Judicial Law ClerkOakland County Circuit Court1996 - 1998
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Social Equity Workgroup, MRABoard Member2020 - Present
Michigan Association of OWI AttorneysPresident2019 - Present
Marijuana Legal Workgroup, AG Dana NesselBoard Member2019 - Present
State Bar of Michigan, Marijuana Law SectionCouncil Member2016 - Present
American Academy of Forensic SciencesGeneral Member2014 - Present
Michigan Association of OWI AttorneysBoard Member2014 - Present
American Chemical SocietyMember2014 - Present
DUI Defense Lawyers AssociationCharter Member and Faculty2014 - Present
Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers CollegeAlumni Association Board Member Region 72013 - Present
Michigan Association of OWI AttorneysInaugural Member2010 - Present
National College of DUI DefenseGeneral Member and Faculty2009 - Present
Federal Bar Association (Eastern District of Michigan chapter)Sustaining Member2008 - Present
Criminal Defense Attorneys of MichiganMember2000 - Present
National Association of Criminal Defense AttorneysMember1999 - Present
Oakland County Bar AssociationMemberN/A
DUI Defense Lawyers Justice FoundationTrusteeN/A
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
ALU.eduDefense Strategies to Know in a DUI Case2020
State of Michigan ReportReport from the Impaired Driving Safety Commission2019
State of Michigan ReportReport from the Impaired Driving Safety Commission2019
Michigan Criminal AttorneyChoosing the Best DUI Attorney for You2014
Michigan Criminal AttorneyMichigan Mandatory Immobilization Laws2013
The Legal AdvocatorMedical Marijuana Corner2011
The Legal AdvocatorDefending a DUI Case2002
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
Boise State UniversityDNA For Lawyers2016
American Chemical SocietyGraduate2014
American Chemical SocietyGraduate2013
National College for DUI DefenseGraduate2013
Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers CollegeGraduate2011
Criminal Defense CollegeGraduate2010
National Criminal Defense CollegeGraduate1999
Michigan State University College of LawJD - Juris Doctor1998
Western Michigan UniversityBBA1994
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Cultivating Your Cannabusiness SuccessHow to Talk Municipalities Into Opting-In to Marijuana2019
Annual MSP Forensic Science Division TrainingExpert Analysis of Forensic Science in DUI Defense2019
Starting a Marijuana Business in MichiganCannabusiness Issues2016
Marijuana Law: What Every Lawyer Must KnowMyth Busters in the Science of Marijuana2016
Defending DUID - Prescription DrugsBlood Testing for Controlled Substances2016
Winter SeminarWinning DUI Trial Strategies2015
Serious Science for Serious LawyersAdvanced Blood Analysis for EtoH2015
Institute for Continuing Legal EducationDrunk Driving Defense Update 20142014
DRE Means "Defended Relatively Easily"Drug Recognition Experts2014
DUI Boot CampDrunk Driving2013
Criminal Law SeminarDUI Trial Skills Course2013
WJBK Fox 2 - Let It RipDrunk Driving2011
First Anunal Law DayCriminal Defense2004
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
People v. ScheuerNot Guilty
People v. CastilloJury Found Defendant Not Guilty in 10 min.
People v. HallAquitted after trial
Bachert v. State of MichiganPetition Granted - Full Privleges Restored
In Re Choudrylicense appeal granted
People v. ThomasDismissed at Trial

Reviews

(19)
5 Star
100%
4 Star
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1 Star
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Review Barton Morris

Outstanding law firm

Posted by

The Barton Morris law firm exceeded my expectations in every way. I was arrested for an OWI in Sterling Heights last February. Through their advice and guidance I attended several courses, evaluations and AA meetings to position myself in a proactive way to the court. They were able to negotiate with the prosecutor to drop the OWI and accept a much lesser charge, (failure to yield to an emergency vehicle). This charge will not interfere with my ability to travel to Canada which I do frequently to compete in sporting events. Both Barton and Charlotte Steffen participated in my representation. The staff, Sarah Tarockoff and Christina Iski were extremely efficient in scheduling and handling the administration process of this case. They never missed a beat. I can't say enough about this firm and would highly recommend them to anybody.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Nice work!

Posted by

Barton was able To get my felony dropped to a misdemeanor. The team did a great job
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

A genuine repretable team on your side!

Posted by

I came to seek Barton Morris and his legal team a year ago this month and still know I made a crucial and wise decision at that time. This case scared me to death and changed my life alot of ways. First I like to express my gratude to Barton and his staff I came to know them fondly with all the communication and time spent with my case. Little did i phathom, one part of it would be dragged out for over a year. Barton and his team were percise and VERY professional since day one.. To get a judgement of reckless driving lowered from a DUI was a God send doesen't happen often. I couldn't of done that without his knowledge and reputation..I was very fortunate to have researched and hired Barton..I did although have to pay the harsh penality of losing my license for a year, that was a tuff pill to swallow. The truth in all this was it the judge gave me not a shred of sympathy, a I never in my life had to deal with such a monster. Barton team represented me 4 times in the DL appeals court in this matter.. We know every resource and efforts possible were put in my case. I feel a sense of completeness knowing I had the best lawyer in this area fighting for me and my family. Much appreciation Barton Morris law offices
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Barton is the best

Posted by

My experience with Barton was fantastic. He delivered exactly what he said he would. I was coming from out of state and Barton was able to have my entire legal process shortened down to one day. He also had my charges swapped for lesser ones and was very informative the entire time.

Already had another attorney but he still was attentive and immediately responded

Posted by

Our family already retained another attorney, I mean I was scouting for the top attorneys everywhere because 1. we never have been in any legal trouble and 2. this was all new to us. At any rate, he had responded while I was retaining another attorney. But it was the way that he said.."good luck, and if you need me I am still here." It made me realize immediately that he cared regardless if we retained him or not. And that means a whole lot.

Very Impressive Drunk Driving Trial Lawyer

Posted by

Barton Morris represented me for my second drunk driving. I wish I hired him for my first. He was honest about what he could do. He then worked really hard on the case and it obviously paid off. He convinced my jury to disregard a .14 blood test and that would have never had happened without him. His knowledge about the case was very impressive . It was obvious that he was an expert DUI specialist defense lawyer.

The right choice

Posted by

Barton delivered on everything he promised me and more, he worked diligently on cleaning up my record and surpassed all of my expectations. I would definitely recommend Mr. Morris to anybody that needs an experienced well connected lawyer on their side. He was definitely the best man for the job.

License Restoration

Posted by

Used Mr. Morris's services in order to get license restored after driving while impaired charges within 7 years. Thorough job in preparing for review hearing and was very effective. Knowledgeable of all possible questions you may face at hearing. Overall very happy and satisfied got my moneys worth.

Simply the Best

Posted by

I was charged with a felony drug case and misdemeanor drug case. I had never been in this type of serious trouble with the law before. After my arrest I researched different criminal attorneys, and Mr. Morris' name kept showing up at the top of my lists. As soon as I met with him, I knew he was the man for the job. He has confidence, and he knows how to ask the right questions. After hiring Mr. Morris he IMMEDIATELY went to work on my cases. Although the legal process was slow and drawn out, he kept me informed throughout this ordeal in a very timely manner. He was always on time for court hearings, and his office staff kept me informed of any changes to these hearings. Instead of just pleading guilty to the charges, he worked very hard to get my felony charge dropped. He also made sure there was no jail time which is important in any criminal case. My misdemeanor case was also negotiated to a much lesser charge. I hope I never have to go through any incident like this again, but I know if I do, I am in great hands with Mr. Morris. If anyone is in any type of criminal trouble, I highly recommend Barton W. Morris, Jr. He is honest, hardworking and gets the job done.

Caring, Committed, and Experienced

Posted by

I had never even had a detention, but through a relationship, wound up in legal trouble under the skeleton framework of the Michigan Medical Marihauna law and the interpretation of law enforcement. I was charged with 2 felonies for Manufacturing with Intent to Deliver. I knew nothing about the legal system and had no experience with qualifying an attorney. Barton responded to me after 9 pm on a Friday after submitting an online inquiry. He met me on a Sunday afternoon at his office. Although I must have spoken to six or more criminal defense attorneys during the time prior to our meeting, what I liked was that he wasn't establishing a relationship by promising rainbows. He was, perhaps, conservative, about the outcome he could bring. He reiterated that sentiment at our meeting. I could discern that he wanted me to be prepared and realistic about the outcome. I appreciated that from the start and throughout the entire process. Barton oversaw my joint case with a co-defendant whom he directly represented, while an associate represented myself. In my numerous interactions with Barton, I can attest to his commitment to easing his client's minds by being knowledgeable, prepared, and personable. Knowing that I would be early, but that Barton would be earlier, helped me breathe a little easier day after day. Knowing he had already spoken to the Clerk and Prosecutor, made me more confident. Having him take the extra time before going into the court room to brief me on what was about to happen, made a foreign experience seem less frightening. Having him reassure me that I would not go to jail time after time, made me feel that in the end it would all be ok. I believed Barton. Because he never lied and never promised rainbows, only conservative reality. The outcome: 2 misdeanors for possession, which can be expunged in 5 years, as a plea deal. I declined the initial deal of 1 felony, as Barton was confident I could get better in a trial. I was confident in Barton, so I agreed and the Prosecution eventually offered the latter. I was always happy to see Barton waiting outside the courtroom and I'm certain that is the feeling he illicits for all of his clients. As a sidenote, what Barton told me to expect from our first meeting: no jail time, fines, and misdemeanor (s). He delivered.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
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Attorney endorsements

(33)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Randy Babi, Federal crime Attorney on Apr 18, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

What a pleasure to work with! Excellent attorney and an asset to our community. This attorney's passion transcends the courtroom and anyone who retains him will have a prize fighter in their corner.

Michael Harrison, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 12, 2015
Relationship: Worked together on matter

Barton is an excellent criminal defense attorney. He is passionate and not afraid to stand up for his client. I fully endorse Barton Morris.

Joshua Covert, DUI and DWI Attorney on Aug 27, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Barton is an amazing DUI lawyer. His understanding of the science really sets him apart.

Judd Nemiro

This lawyer strives to get the best results for his clients. I endorse this lawyer

Twila White, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 6, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Barton Morris is an excellent trial lawyer. I highly recommend Barton to anyone in the Michigan area. He works hard for his clients and is not afraid to try cases. When he takes on a case, he is committed. He fights for justice!

John Kallabat, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 6, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Brian Prain

Barton Morris is a professional among professionals. In the community, Barton has a reputation for being on-time, prepared, professional, and effective. You may not be thinking of these things when you're facing serious trouble, but hiring an attorney with those attributes can even keep you out of jail and protect your future. Furthermore, Mr. Morris serves a relatively wide geographical range; it is not uncommon to see him defending a drunk driving in the morning in Royal Oak and then fighting felony charges for another client in the afternoon in Ann Arbor. That means he has a diverse knowledge base and gives him exposure to creative options and defenses that he can put to work for you. I highly endorse Barton Morris as an attorney and as a person.

Shaun Marks, DUI and DWI Attorney on Dec 18, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Barton Morris is an outstanding criminal defense attorney. I have attended more than one legal education course with him and his knowledge and abilities are beyond reproach. He has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to attaining the highest level of legal expertise. I endorse this lawyer.

Matthew Abdo, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 13, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I once leaned on Barton for advice on a matter in a jurisdiction that he frequently practices in. His advice helped me in securing a disposition where a criminal misdemeanor was reduced to a civil infraction. In terms of reputation, Barton is regarded as a maverick in the field of criminal law. He speaks eloquently and has a commanding presence in the court room. I endorse this lawyer.

Dennis Wilson

I endorse this lawyer.

Aaron Boria, DUI and DWI Attorney on Nov 2, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Barton Morris is an excellent lawyer. Unlike many lawyers, Barton keeps up with the ever changing law. You know you are getting great representation with him. I endorse this lawyer.

Jonathan Paul, Criminal defense Attorney on Jul 3, 2012
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

I recently watched Barton advocate at sentencing on behalf of a client. He was well prepared and showed true compassion for the case.

Nathan Dineen, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 20, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Barton is an intelligent, professional, competent attorney willing to go the extra distance for his clients. He is aggressive and dedicated. If you have been arrested and need qualified legal advice, please call him for honest options on your case.

Rhidian Orr, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 25, 2012
Relationship: Worked together on matter

Barton is a gifted lawyer. His skills in the courtroom are unmatched. He has dedicated a substantial time in his career to become the best litigator. Barton is one of about a thousand lawyers nationwide to graduate from Gerry Spence’s trial lawyer’s college. Whether you are dealing with a criminal or driving issue Barton is the attorney to call. With Barton in your corner you are well protected. I highly recommend Barton.

Rhonda Ives, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 23, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

With confidence, I endorse Barton Morris in the legal community! I was able to train with Barton for 3 1/2 weeks at Gerry Spence's Trial Lawyer's college in Wyoming. Barton is the best of the best. Some cases require eloquent negotiation and others require Courtroom strength and tenacity. Barton can deliver all of these skills with brilliance. However, what sets Barton apart is that he cares about his clients and their families and I have seen him go the extra mile to ensure Justice for his clients. Barton Morris doesn't just stand for justice, he fights for it!

Joy Bertrand, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 3, 2011
Relationship: Worked together on matter

Barton helped me prepare a matter for trial. His insights and knowledge contributed greatly to my handling of that complex case. I strongly recommend him for any criminal matter.

Grant Scheiner, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 29, 2011
Relationship: Worked together on matter

It is a privilege to endorse Barton Morris, Jr. He is an extremely sharp and talented criminal trial lawyer. Barton works tirelessly to defend his clients, even under the most difficult circumstances and against great odds. I have watched him in all phases of trial and Barton's courtroom skills rank among the very best.

James Amberg, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 29, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Hiring the right criminal defense attorney will have a major impact on what will happen to you with your criminal case. You need to hire an experienced criminal specialist who fights like hell for their clients and knows the local criminal justice system. That is why any time I have co-defendants or criminal referrals, I call Bart. Simply put, Bart wins cases. He is courageous, extremely intelligent, and will do whatever it takes to win. Within the criminal defense community, Bart is known as a lawyers lawyer who never gives up on his clients. Put it this way, if my life was on the line, Bart would be the first person I'd call for help.

Jeremy Hollingshead, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 29, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I strongly endorse Barton. Barton is a talented trial lawyer who cares about his clients and works hard to achieve excellent results. He will take the time to learn your story and prepare constantly until he can really do your story justice with your jury.

Daniel Alvarez, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 28, 2011
Relationship: Worked together on matter

It's rare that you find such a highly talented and intelligent lawyer who also cares deeply about each individual client. Barton is that type of lawyer. He is fueled by tenacity, keen knowledge of the law, but most importantly a genuine concern for his client and the outcome. Barton will be your fierce advocate in the courtroom. I highly endorse Barton as an attorney and as a person!

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