Ray Edward Richards II

Criminal defense Attorney at TROY, MI

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Ray Richards top notch Attorney!

Client

Mr. Richards is a Godsend!!! I had know idea what to do!! I just got my second DUI in one of the toughest areas in Oakland County (W, Bloomfield) and I was losing my mind!! First he calm me down and he lead and guided me through the process step by step like he could see the future and was honest with me from the beginning! he let me know that I was going to do jail time, but what was important that we was going to concentrate on trying to do all the right things so I wouldn't have to do the Max!! (Which is 93 Days) His Professionalism and his Guidance got me through the process! I did 14 Days, which was a blessing! He took the time to contact my family that lives out of town to let them know what was going on and also my Employer and I really believe that what help me keep my job!!! And if anyone knows about the process with the courts on DUI's you need money! I can't thank him enough!!! Its nothing easy about this situation or the process, but he made it easier to digest the situation I put myself in!! He's My Friend, My Brother and My Lawyer!! Thank You for Guiding me and getting my life back on track!!!

About Ray

Learn Ray’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Criminal defense

45%

State Court felony and misdemeanor Criminal Defense.

26 years
Federal crime

40%

Federal Criminal Defense Nationwide.including but not limited to drug/narcotics trafficking and possession prosecution, public corruption, white collar crime, grand jury investigation defense
... Read more
26 years
Entertainment

5%

Contract review and negotiation;business planning and litigation
Litigation

5%

Drug and Property Forfeiture matters involving criminal prosecutions

26 years
Personal injury

5%

Attorney Ray Richards your Counsel, Conscience and Champion!

Attorney Ray Richards II was born and raised in the City of Detroit.

His thriving trial and business consulting strategy practice has been serving the Metro Detroit area for over a decade!

He is a proud established Trial attorney specializing in State and Federal Criminal Defense; Civil litigation and Corporate Transactions; Personal Injury and Sports and Entertainment Law.

A well respected courtroom advocate, he has tried and litigated criminal and civil cases Nationwide and represented clients internationally in the civil and criminal courts in the U.K., Canada and Spain.

He is a member of the prestigious Federal C.J.A. Panel of attorneys who are selected by a committee of Metro Detroits finest Criminal Defense Attorney's to represent indigent Criminal Defendants in Federal Court charged with felonies ranging from major drug conspiracies, white collar crimes and death penalty cases.

Mr Richards is known for his tough aggressive but gentlemenly style of trial litigation and negotiation. His cross examination and Closing arguments are the hallmark of his abilities. His presence on Criminal Defense teams as a master strategist has been heralded in some of the City of Detroits major Criminal Litigation on and behind the scenes.

He has been known to negotiate, as a last resort, some of the most brow raising plea resolutions when it most benefits his clients accused of serious crimes.

Mr. Richards is a graduate of Detroit Catholic Central High School; Grand Valley State University and the Ohio Northern Claude W. Pettit College of Law.

Mr. Richards is a frequent speaker at church and law and corporate related events.

At the law office of Ray Richards...Its not over till we say its over!

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Licensed for 25 years

State MI

Status Active in Good Standing

Acquired 1997

Updated 02/23/2023

This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2014. See details

Contact Ray

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Ray E Richards II

200 East Big Beaver Rd

TROY, MI, 48083

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Reviews

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4.7 / 5.0

28 customer reviews

5 Star

93%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by Jacqueline | November 13, 2018

Ray Richards top notch Attorney!

I contacted Attorney Richards regarding my son Malik Lemons who for the first time of his life facing criminal charges, Mr. Richards not only calmed my frantic nerves by being there whenever my son and I called with questions regarding his case explaining as well as teaching he and I of his rights! Thank you Attorney Richards for going above and beyond for your client's!!

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Posted by Kevin | May 23, 2018

Client

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Posted by anonymous | May 28, 2017

The Best forget the Rest

I would recommend Mr. Ray Richards for any and all cases you may face. He reliable, trustworthy and above all the best to ever walk the walk. He understands your concerns and and fears. If you ever want an attorney with you walking into any court room Mr. Richards is the one. His presence calms all fears and doubt you may have. Trust me when I say He is the Greatest!!! Much love Mr. Richards and please keep up the awesome work of fighting for the rights of the people.

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Posted by Jacquelyn | March 22, 2017

The best lawyer ever

Mr.Richards is one of the most down to earth people I've ever had the pleasure of meeting.he goes hard for his clients on every level of the court process.i definitely recommend him for anyone going through any type of criminal court case. Damn good lawyer and

Posted by Vallene pates | March 21, 2017

Wonderful work.. and if I ever needed a lawyer he would be the first I'd call

He did everything that was needed to do. He handle things very well was patient on time worked hard . Made sure he stayed in contact

Posted by Roy | August 22, 2014

We spoke the truth

Mr ray Richards save my life thank you after facing seven criminal charges he was able to get me not guilty verdict by a jury I would recommend him to anyone who wants their freedom he is one of the top attorneys you would want on your side to fight for your innocent

Posted by anonymous | May 8, 2014

A true professional

Ray was extremely professional from beginning to end. I needed a lawyer on very short notice for a court hearing, and he jumped right in without missing a beat. He was always available to answer any questions I had, and explained things clearly and concisely. My business associate recommended Ray after a good experience with him, and I was pleased with both his availability and rates. I would recommend Ray for any type of criminal or federal work. He knows how to get the job done and I really felt like he was fighting for me!

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Posted by Carolyn | May 7, 2014

Genuine

Congrats! Your search stops here. If you’re looking for an Attorney who will listen, empathize, apologize as well as delivery a solution that works in your favor than Attorney Ray Edward Richards II is the one for you. Ray is honest and cares about his clients. While being an Attorney is a profession in which they should be paid for their services. Too many forget that they also work with people, not merely subjects. Attorney Ray Edwards Richards II never lost sight of that in fact he was very clear about the process and fees which were more than reasonable. Ray was very knowledgeable, warm and his staff welcomed me with open arms. Ray remain consistent threw the whole process he was very prompt with returning calls in addition to regular communication. Ray is not just a good attorney but he has become a friend to my family and friends as he is there for all of our needs and concerns. Thank you Ray for all that you do and have done!

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Posted by Dusty | May 7, 2014

Put your trust in Mr. Richards

Out of the many lawyers I have worked with in the past Mr. Richards is definitely the most professional and knowledgeable. He is prompt, dedicated, to the point and gets the job done correctly. I know he can do what I need and not waste my time. I would highly recommend him to any of my friends and colleagues.

Posted by anonymous | May 7, 2014

Ray Richards

I hired Mr. Richards for a federal issue that I got myself into. From the beginning to the end of this dilemma, Mr. Richards was proactive, professional and fair. His experience with federal issues from the beginning of the process all the way down to the sentencing guidelines was evident. He has a great reputation. He knew exactly what to say when to say it and keep me informed every step of the way. I'm very happy with the representation that I received. I highly recommend Mr. Richards as an attorney.

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Posted by anonymous | May 6, 2014

Excellent Attorney with great values.

Mr. Richards pays close attention to detail and is always there when you call. He is very professional. He makes sure that you feel very comfortable with the process and he is very honest about the outcome. I have worked with several attorneys before and Mr. Richards is the best hands down.

Posted by Rick | May 5, 2014

Ray Richards Will Fight For You!

I have know Attorney Richards for over a decade and can truly recommend him as one of the top trial attorneys in the state of Michigan. Mr. Richards treats each case as if it were the only case he is handling at any given time. He pays that much attention to the detail of every individual case and he brings that level of passion to each individual case. The commitment that Mr. Richards brings to the cases he handles is that quality that separates him from other attorneys in Michigan.

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Posted by Kendrick | May 2, 2014

A True Champion for Justice

I contacted Ray E. Richards in regards to general legal issue that ultimately led to the consultation regarding a will. Attorney Ray Richards conducted a thorough, objective assessment, free of charge which led to the creation of a will from an elderly family member that “simply didn’t see the value of a will”. In the past Attorney Ray Richards has always worked within the community to provide legal advice to many individuals that normally do not have the financial means to seek legal assistance. One of the admirable traits for Attorney Ray Richard is that many people value and respect his efforts to assist the “underdog”. The legal profession is a tough business with some of it members only take cases that have huge monetary value. Attorney Ray E. Richards is one of those attorneys that the legal profession can still believe and have complete trust in to ensure that justice is served for all citizens, not just those who has deep pockets.

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Posted by anonymous | May 2, 2014

Straight talking lawyer, got the job done !

Ray was there when I needed him the most, he was very straight forward and had a very claiming effect on me and my family. We resolved my case with better results that I expected.

Posted by anonymous | May 2, 2014

Attorney Richards...he is good!

Mr. Richards is a hard working honorable man. I would recommend him to anyone in need of legal help. He goes the extra mile for his clients and got great results for me. Thank you Mr. Richards!

Posted by ciearl | May 1, 2014

real results.from real clients

Mr.Ray Richards help me with my case with fast results and Mr.Ray Richards also gave me results from across state lines I would recommend him first before any one else. -Ciearl

Posted by Alisha | May 1, 2014

Alisha's review

I was introduced to Ray from a family member. I've been with a lawyer the past two years. At first I was happy with him,then months and months went by without getting updates on my case. Finally after several attempts I get a response stating he may NOT continue with my case. I was told a INTERN couldn't find anything for them to win my case! That's when I was introduced to Ray. He quickly reassured me that he would take my case. Ray is in the process of getting my case files from my current lawyer and take over as my NEW lawyer. I was ready to give up but Ray said that's NOT an option and he would take care of EVERYTHING. I'm looking forward to working with Ray and grateful that he's doing everything to turn my negative experience into a positive one.

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Posted by Kendall | May 1, 2014

Highly Recommended

During the time that I have known Mr. Richards, he has shown me nothing but respect. He keeps you knowledgeable and aware without being condescending. He is incredibly fair and works harder than some could even imagine to give his clients the best possible outcome.

Posted by anonymous | May 1, 2014

Trustworthy Attorney

I was involved in a car collision in which my car was totaled; I was informed by my insurance company that they would not pay the total balance of the car. I called Mr. Richards because my family and friends utilized his services in the past and spoke highly of him and his skill set. I explained my situation and he explained to me the different avenues that the insurance can take with regards to my vehicle. He was very patient with my questions and now I understand what I can do legally to recoup monies that was lost. Excellent services. Would use his services again if ever needed.

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Posted by Eric | May 1, 2014

Knowledgeable lawyer with heart

I've been in business for nearly 25 years and filed my 1st law suit in 1988 at age 19 thus I have many years dealing with lawyers. Unlike most lawyers Ray has been passionate about law since childhood. Ray combines his passion for the law with extreme intelligence with the heart of a lion to get results. I highly recommend him.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 8.3 (Excellent)

Professional misconduct

This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2014.

Suspension issued in MI, 2014
updated on 04/30/2014

Suspension means an attorney lost his or her license to practice law for a period of time. The attorney typically returns to practicing law when the suspension expires.

Ray's comment: “I in an unfortunate turn of events, made a mistake had to answer to the same. I learned from my mistake and I am a better person and certainly a better lawyer because of it! I am now active and in good standing and once again fervently fighting on behalf of the accused. As I often tell my clients, that "Your past/present situation is not your final destination.The best is yet to come! " Because of my past unintentional transgression I bear witness to that quote. Stay tuned!”

Work Experience

Managing Partner
Richards & Associates PLC
2010 - Present

Deputy Defender
State Defender Office
1998 - 1999

Grad Intern/Staff Attorney
Backer Lanctot Schoolmaster Taylor and Hom PLLC
1997 - 1998

Graduate Law Clerk
Drew Cooper and Anding PC
1993 - 1997

Intern
US Attorney Office Western District
1992 - 1993

View all work experience

Education

Ohio Northern University - Claude W. Pettit College of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1996

Grand Valley State University
Bachelor of Science
1993

Legal Cases

State v C. R.
Case dismissed

State v K.H.
Case dismissed at Preliminary Exam

State v Porch
Attempt Murder Dismissed, Client plead to disorderly conduct

View all legal cases

Associations

National Trial Lawyers Association
Member
2014 - Present

Wayne County Criminal Defense Bar Association
Member
2013 - Present

Shamrock Bar Association
Board of Directors
2008 - Present

Federal Criminal Justice Act Panel
Member
2007 - Present

National Criminal Defense College
Member
2006 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys
Member
2005 - Present

State Bar of Michigan
Member
1997 - Present

Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan
Member
2007 - 2008

D. Augustus Straker Bar Association
Member
2003 - 2006

Oakland County Bar Association
Member
2002 - 2004

American Trial Lawyers Association
Member
2001 - 2006

Michigan Trial Lawyers Association (Detroit chapter)
Member
2001 - 2007

D. Augustus Straker Bar Association
Secretary
1999 - 2000

Recorders Court Bar Association
Member
1997 - 2002

View all associations

Languages Spoken

Spanish

English

Honors and Awards

Platinum Client Champion Award
Martindale-Hubbell®
2019

AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2018

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2018

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2017

Community Lawyer Award
True Resurrection M.B.C.
2016

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2016

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2015

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2014

Barrister of the Year
Ohio Northern College of Law
1997

Book Award for Trial Advocacy
Ohio Norther College of Law
1997

Moot Court Executive Board Member of the Year
Ohio Northern University College of Law
1997

Advocacy Award
National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
N/A

View all awards

Publications

Chaldean News
How Businesses Can Stay out of Legal Trouble!
2017

Macomb Daily
Man sentenced to four years in best friend's death
2016

Detroit News
Man gets 4-15 years in prison in DUI death of friend
2016

F.E.D.S. Magazine
Federal Appeals 101
2013

F.E.D.S. Magazine
Shut up and Save yourself from yourself!
2013

F.E.D.S. Magazine
White Collar Crime
2012

F.E.D.S.
A Good Defense is a Good Offense
2011

Detroit Native Sun
Michigan first Offense DUI Law Consequences
2011

cbs news
87-year-old arrested in Mich. with $2.9 million worth of cocaine in pickup
2011

Don Diva Magazine
Gettin it poppin can get you popped!
2010

Don Diva Magazine
Detroit's Criminal Defense Powerhouse
2009

USA Today
Lawyer for Ex Toledo Player Pushing for Separate Trial
2009

View all publications

Speaking Engagements

Graduate Student Lecture Series
The Crossing of the Crusades of Social Work and Criminal Defense-We are all in this together!
2019

Young Black Mens Conference
Hands Up, Shut Up and Hope for the Best
2015

Rodney Heard Foundation Sports Camps
The Law and the Athlete
2013

Young Black Male Development Conference
Law and the African American Male
2013

Community education and Job Fair
Know your Rights and Keep your Liberty!
2012

Rodney Heard Basketball Camp
Representing the Celebrity Athlete
2011

Alpha Phi Alpha Inc Regional
Law and College Life
2010

Law and our Community
Ask the Lawyer!
2009

Ask a Lawyer!
Ask a Lawyer the Questions that you always wanted answers to!
2007

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (8)

Given (18)

Endorse Ray

Joseph Lavigne

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Ray is very hard working and does an outstanding job for his clients. He is well prepared, dedicated and a pleasure to work with. He is the kind of attorney you want to have on your side."

Stevin Groth

Federal crime Attorney | May 16
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer...We have been involved in complex criminal litigation for the past 6 years in Federal Court. Ray has all the tools of a powerful advocate, plus he is personable and willing to listen. Top notch attorney."

G. Guinn

Criminal defense Attorney | May 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Attorney Ray Richards II for over 20 years! He is professional,knowledgable, and experienced in all criminal matters involving all levels of government, big or small. Attorney Richards has always been been a zealous advocate for his client's and their rights under the constituion. He is a WARRIOR in the courtroom and he is the man to call when your freedom is at stake. I endorse this lawyer."

Angela Howell

Criminal defense Attorney | May 14
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Ray Richards epitomizes professionalism and expertise. I've had the pleasure of working with him and learning from him. He is organized and thorough; dogmatic, yet compassionate; imperious yet easy to work with. He is a great attorney and true leader."

Isa Kasoga

Criminal defense Attorney | May 13
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have known Ray Richards personally and professionally for six years. All attorneys should aspire to be as dedicated to protecting their clients rights and interests as is Ray Richards. I have not worked with a more diligent and competent professional."

William Rosenfelt

Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Ray for 20 years. He epitomizes class, character and compassion with his actions, deeds and words. He is a consummate professional and I would not hesitate to recommend him to any one in need of his services."

Paul Siepmann

Litigation Attorney | Aug 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I've known Ray Richards for going on twenty years. He is an incredibly experienced, highly effective litigator. Any client retaining Mr. Richards will have an excellent advocate on their side."

James Acho

Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Ray Richards is one of a select few attorneys that myself and our firm refer criminal cases too. The 2 things that matter most to me/us: 1) Ray consistently gets excellent results for clients, and 2) his reputation in this business after 12+ years of practice is very good. Fellow attorneys respect him, and so do Judges. That speaks volumes. If you want to know what someone's future results will look like, look at their track record. NBA GM's and high ranking people from the sports world trust him to represent them, and I trust him with clients I'm unable to represent. I recommend Ray to anyone who wants an aggressive but reasonably-priced lawyer who knows the Courts, the Judges, and the CJ system."

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Joseph Lavigne

Criminal defense