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William M. Barnwell

Criminal defense Attorney at Warren, MI

5.0   274 reviews

also known as Bill Barnwell


Licensed for 7 years

Free consultation

About William

Learn William’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    55%
    Federal, state, and local offenses. Drug offenses, alleged sex offenses, internet offenses, retail fraud, domestic violence, white-collar crime, conspiracy, embezzlement, assault, battery. Litigation, jury trials.

  2. DUI and DWI
    25%
    Handle all defenses related to drinking and driving offenses, including successful challenges to DataMaster evidence. Also experience in license restoration hearings as well as Implied Consent Hearings.

  3. Sex crime
    20%

TOP-RATED AND EXPERIENCED TRIAL ATTORNEY HERE TO HELP YOUR DUI AND ALL OTHER CRIMINAL DEFENSE CASES

Looking for a winning attorney with a successful record of multiple "Not Guilty" jury trials, as well as helping many other clients who have made mistakes get the best outcomes possible given their situation? An attorney who sees you as more than just a paycheck, but as a person for whom he wants to fight and achieve your goals? Look no further than Bill Barnwell of Barnwell Law, PLLC. If you are seeing this ad, Bill is experienced with your legal need and the courtroom where your case is pending, including counties such as Macomb, Washtenaw, Oakland, Wayne, St. Clair, and many other counties throughout Michigan, as well as large cities such as Warren, Ann Arbor, Sterling Heights, Royal Oak, Port Huron, Detroit and many others. Barnwell Law delivers results across Michigan. 

Bill is also one of the only lawyers in the state of Michigan who is also an experienced leader in the non-profit community for over 20 years, with extensive counseling and public relations experience.  His years of experience outside the courtroom and results inside of the courtroom give him respect and a skill set that many other defense attorneys do not possess. Furthermore, it makes him more relatable to clients, better at negotiating with prosecutors and city attorneys, and skilled in making an argument to a judge or jury. Bill is also a former academic, which translates to excellent written skills when drafting motions, arguments, and appeals.

As a highly experienced public speaker, Bill has spoken in front of groups of thousands, hundreds, and small groups. Bill's background in social science, counseling and public relations give him skills to ensure fair juros are selected for your trial. His persuasion skills in front of a judge or jury are top-notch and come with proven results for both bench and jury trials. 

Bill handles cases large and small. Serious felonies to low-level misdemeanors, in courts all throughout the State of Michigan. Bill has practiced in nearly every part of the state, including in the Eastern Federal District handling federal criminal law cases. He handles everything from the most serious homicide cases down to common misdemeanors.

Bill is passionate about criminal defense and he has produced not-guilty verdicts, dismissals, and highly favorable resolutions for clients throughout Metro-Detroit and all throughout the state of Michigan. 

Contact Bill TODAY at to begin addressing your legal need. 

Photos and videos

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Licensed for 7 years
State FL
Status Member in Good Standing
Acquired 2021
Updated 02/23/2023
State MI
Status Active in Good Standing
Acquired 2015
Updated 02/23/2023

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

Contact William

Barnwell Law, PLLC

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  274 customer reviews
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Posted by anonymous | December 3, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Felony Charge DISMISSED - Re-written as Misdemeanor Charge
Bill is a highly professional, attentive, and extremely knowledgeable attorney. He takes the time to guide you through every step of the way and is available any time if you have any questions or concerns. He goes the extra mile (MILES) to get you the absolute best outcome for your case. I was charged in Florida with the second degree felony charge of Aggravated Assault Against a Police Officer. He worked diligently and assertively with the Prosecutor’s Office to have it reduced. Outcome: the felony charge was DISMISSED and re-written as a misdemeanor Reckless Driving. I went from facing up to 15 years in prison to being sentenced to 6 months non-reporting probation with very minimal conditions. Look no further than Bill when seeking an attorney to have the ultimate best results for your case!
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Posted by John | November 12, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome Lawyer
I went off the wagon after 14 tears and was pulled over with a.23 alcohol level. My wife and I didn't have an attorney. She called several attorneys in the middle of the night. The only one to have concern enough to return her call was William Barnwell. I was facing my 4th DUI because they go back you're entire driving history. We went and talked to William Barnwell and in one conversation my wife and I agreed this as the man to hire. He was straight forward, compassionate and he had a plan of action. I followed his advice on the proper steps before pre-trial. He called me with general concerns about my well being. We got to know him pretty good, and both agree that he is a honest and good person. He helped me to get confidence and trust. In the end, William Barnwell was able to get me into sobrietry court. Upon my completion, the felony will be reduced to a misdemeanor. The judge and Prosecutor both agreed to wave jail time. I don't know how he manage this, but I'm convinced that he is a miracle worker. I Strongly recommend William Barnwell
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Posted by Jo | November 3, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney!
I cannot fit into space how grateful I am to Mr. Barnwell. He is an amazing attorney with the patience of a saint. He recently was able to find help for my brother-in-law in lieu of jail. My brother-in-law had a possession charge amongst other things surely looking at jail time if not prison. Mr Barnwell was able to get him into a drug court program and knocked down to a misdemeanor. This given my brother-in-law's history is amazing! And believe it or not I am seeing a difference in my brother-in-law for the first time in many years he actually seems to be embracing a path of recovery. Cannot say enough good things about Mr Barnwell and his firm thank you again!
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Posted by anonymous | March 15, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best!!!
All I can say is wow!! Bill not just an outstanding attorney but a genuinely caring guy at heart. He stuck with me through my entire case lasting almost 3 years! I was initially charged with a felony dwls which he had immediately reduced to a MISD. As well as 2 felony counts reckless driving ultimately settled at MISDs. He was amazing throughout the entire process and I would HIGHLY recommend him to anyone!!
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Posted by Brian | March 10, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great experience, would highly recommend
I had a wonderful experience with Mr Barnwell. He took great care to explain my options and potential outcomes with me. I felt he had a thorough understanding of my situation and guided me to the best possible outcome I could have received. He was always available to answer questions and handled my case with the utmost courtesy and professionalism. I would recommend him to anyone in need of a defense attorney.
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Posted by Christopher | March 7, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent criminal justice attorney. Highly recommend.
I'm very happy with the service I received from Mr Barnwell. He responded quickly to my calls and answered all the questions I had. With his help I never spent a day in jail or stepped foot in a courtroom. Highly recommended to all those who need a criminal
Posted by Zachary | February 23, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Lawyer
Took care of my case very professionally and treated me very nicely! I recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer and will do everything in his power to get the best results for you.
Posted by Alena | February 22, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
My offense was an owi
William Barnwell is a fantastic attorney he made it easy for me to pay fines overtime so I didn't get overwhelmed with the address expense Being a single mom he really hit and targeted all the hotspots to keep me from doing any time. After it was all said and done only 1yr probation and a parenting class, big deal! Thank you for fighting for me Mr Barnwell! I'll recommend you times after time!
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Posted by Greg | February 12, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional and dedicated to assure you the best outcome for your case!
Mister Barnwell was hired by me to help fight my charge of a second DUI. From the moment he answered the phone until the moment we shook hands after trial, he treated me as if we have had been close friends my whole life. The level of knowledge, respect, and courtesy that this gentleman has for the law and his client go beyond anything you would expect from an attorney. He will always do his best to secure you the best outcome of any scenario. I was being charged with my second count of a DUI, and after our trial was over with, i was found not guilty. He will let you know from day 1 if he is able to help you and what your options are. His time is just as valuable as yours, and neither wants to be wasted. Overall, I would recommend his services to anyone and everyone that needs legal council.
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Posted by Jabed | January 20, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
ONE OF THE BEST LAWERS THAT I HAVE MET!
One of the best lawyers in town! Very professional. Well at communication. He's got a not guilty trial verdict on my case! I'll recommend him to everyone!
Posted by Sumon | January 20, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Secretary, Bangladesh Association of Michigan(BAM)
Excellent lawyer. Very good at communication. Knows what he’s doing. He was hired for one of my friends case. Fought for the case like a champ. He’s got a not guilty trial verdict on that case! I’d recommend him to anyone! ONE OF THE BEST LAWYERS THAT I HAVE MET!
Posted by anonymous | January 18, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Case Dismissed!
Very informative and confident. If you need help, this is the attorney you need. I was accused of something that I did not do and Attorney William Barnwell walked me through this, the best possible path. Would definitely call him again!
Posted by Zack | January 18, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Out There!!!
Wanting the best outcome for my case I did a lot of research and calling around to many different lawyers in Macomb County. None gave me quite the confidence that William Barnwell did. From day one, even before I hired him he was always available to discuss my pending charge and reassured me following his plan works well in the court system. After hiring Mr Barnwell he continued to always be available, never having a secretary who just forwarded messages back and forth. It’s real personable especially when your future livelyhood is potentially at stake based on a final charge determination. I followed exactly what Mr Barnwell had planned out for me and the outcome was better than I could have anticipated. I am beyond happy with the outcome and could not recommend a better person for the job!
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Posted by James | January 12, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer ever
Very professional love the work he does very great lawyer and a great person I wouldn’t call any other lawyer to help me
Posted by Steve | January 2, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Dui charge
Bill did a great job with my case. Much smoother than expected. Listen to him about doing preemptive classes.
Posted by Brian | December 18, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Honest guy
My 17 yr old son did some REALLY stupid things. The case was about traffic. When I contacted Bill he was very HONEST and said only that he would do his best. I could NOT let my son go to court without an attorney. We had a very POSITIVE out come. You should definitely consider him if you need an attorney. Brian Holt
Posted by Ali | December 5, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer
I actually felt like he cared about my case and was dedicated to get the job done.
Posted by Garrett | December 1, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great lawyer!
Mr. Barnwell was great, he knew what to do from start to finish and in the end the results were better than expected. Do yourself a favor and hire him.
Posted by Dennis | November 5, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best in the business
I would recommend the firm to anyone who needs people who understand the laws that they will be dealing with. They really pulled through for me. So glad I hired them! Five stars
Posted by anonymous | October 21, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
An amazing lawyer- would recommend to anyone!
Hiring Mr. Barnwell was the best decision my family ever made. Earlier this year, my uncle faced damaging criminal charges on false grounds and with no experience on how to solve this, we were extremely lost. We came across Mr.Barnwell when searching for lawyers and from the start, he was quick to respond and very helpful. He provided us with a consultation at very late hours which we were very impressed by. He took our case within days and arrived at the first hearing with a moment's notice. He was concise, explained everything very well, and was professional and very kind. He was always open to discussing the case via text or email which was one of his best qualities. He was transparent about what could or could not happen. He is extremely educated and experienced as he guided my family without any confusion from our end. The case came to the conclusion within 3 months and with a great outcome as the original charges were dropped and the less damaging outcome was granted - all thanks to Mr.Barnwell. He was able to turn this case within months and without him, we would have never felt the joy we feel today.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
  • Retainer Always
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney-at-Law
  • Barnwell Law, PLLC
  • 2015 - Present
  • Director/Non-Profit
  • ROC
  • 2002 - Present
  • Professor
  • CMI
  • 2006 - 2014

Education

  • Western Michigan University Cooley Law School
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2015
  • Bethel College
  • MA - Masters
  • 2006
  • Bethel College
  • MA - Masters
  • 2005
  • Bethel College
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2002
View all education

Legal Cases

  • People v Dean
  • Dismissed
  • People v. Higgs
  • Trial Victory, Not Guilty
  • People v. Fran
  • Dismissed
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Macomb County Bar Foundation
  • Trustee
  • 2018 - Present
  • Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan
  • Member
  • 2018 - Present
  • Macomb County Bar Association
  • Young Lawyer Section Director
  • 2018 - Present
  • State Appellate Defenders Office
  • Member
  • 2018 - Present
  • American Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • State Bar of Michigan
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • Macomb County Indigent Defense
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • Macomb County Criminal Defense Section
  • Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • Macomb County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2012 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Michigan Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2022
  • 10 Best for Client Satisfaction
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • 2021
  • Top 10 Attorney
  • Attorney and Practice Magazine
  • 2021
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2021
  • 10 Best for Client Satisfaction
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • 2020
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2020
  • Top 40 Lawyers Under 40
  • American Society of Legal Advocates
  • 2019
  • Top 10 Under 40
  • National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • 2019
  • Top 40 Under 40
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2019
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2019
  • Top 10 Under 40
  • National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • 2018
  • Top 40 Lawyers Under 40
  • American Society of Legal Advocates
  • 2018
  • 10 Best for Client Satisfaction
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • 2018
  • Rising Star
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2018
  • 10 Best
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • 2017
  • Top 40 Under 40
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2017
  • Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2017
  • Outstanding Community Recognition
  • City of Warren
  • 2015
  • Outstanding Community Recognition
  • City of Warren
  • 2014
  • Moot Court Finalist
  • Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School
  • 2013
  • Moot Court Finalist
  • Moot Court
  • 2013
  • Trial Participant
  • National Mock Trial
  • 2013
  • Outstanding Community Recognition
  • City of Warrren
  • 2013
  • Trial Participant
  • National Mock Trial
  • 2012
View all awards

Publications

  • Bar Briefs (MCBA)
  • I Have My P Number, Now What?
  • 2019
  • Macomb County Bar Association
  • Presumed Guilty
  • 2018
  • Macomb County Bar Association
  • Recent Criminal Procedure Changes Offer Litigation Opportunities
  • 2015
  • Macomb County Bar Association
  • "Expungement Reforms Await Action by House."
  • 2014
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • So I Have My P Number, Now What?
  • Starting a Successful Legal Practice
  • 2019
  • Macomb County Bar Foundation
  • Illegal Steroid Use Mock Trial
  • 2018
  • Senior Estate Planning
  • Estate Planning
  • 2017
  • "Police Stops, Searches, and Protecting Your Rights"
  • Criminal Defense
  • 2017
  • Protecting our Children
  • Opiate Awareness
  • 2016
  • Senior Safety Strategies.
  • Criminal Safety
  • 2016
  • Keeping Our Kids Safe
  • Drug Awareness
  • 2016
  • Brown City Camp
  • Young Adult Issues
  • 2014
  • Mancelona Family Camp
  • Teenagers and Families
  • 2007
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (29)
Given (42)
Endorse William
Criminal defense Attorney | May 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"As a fellow member of the bar practicing criminal defense, I have witnessed firsthand the strong advocacy and zealous representation that Mr. Barnwell provides to his clients. He has a passion and knowledge for the law that you simply cannot fake."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Bill is a great trial lawyer and experienced winner. He will fight for your rights!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 26
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse Attorney Barnwell, he is a knowledgeable, ethical and aggressive criminal lawyer. He is a fighter for the people and always fights for the best possible outcome for his clients. If you have a criminal matter, do not hesitate to call Mr. Barnwell."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Bill is an excellent attorney with deep knowledge of criminal law. He zealously advocates for each of his clients. Bill is active within his legal community and lends his time to numerous leadership roles. I endorse this attorney."
Unknown Attorney | Dec 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Attorney provides excellent advice to the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Barnwell is an excellent advocate for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Bill is a strong advocate who is respected by judges and prosecutors for his legal acumen. His personal touch and respect for his clients is unique. You would be well served to have Bill Barnwell as your lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Great attorney in the legal community. He is energetic and willing to fight for his clients. He is not afraid to file motions or try cases. He will not back down from a fight."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"William has insight into his client's needs, which makes him an excellent presence in the Courtroom. I endorse William."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Barnwell is a passionate advocate on behalf of his clients who gets results. He has an impeccable reputation in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Bill is an outstanding attorney that treats his clients right and is always prepared. Bill is never hesitant to take on any case getting the best results for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Bill is an excellent orator and in my mind holds one of the most important characteristics of a great attorney in that he has faith in the law and his skill set and understands that is very important that the legal system remain balanced, which includes every persons right to a credible defense. He is a hard worker and ethical. I endorse him and trust him to handle criminal and other matters."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 28
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Bill Barnwell is an extremely talented and well respected attorney and for obvious reasons. Bill always understands his case and knows how to fight. Very hardworking and diligent. He consistently achieves superior results. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Mr. Barnwell. I required last-minute assistance for coverage in a felony matter and Mr. Barnwell came through without hesitation. He handled the matter very professionally, informed the client as to the circumstances, and kept me updated the entire time."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Bill always goes above and beyond for his clients. He is thorough, professional and prepared. It's a pleasure to endorse him, and I recommend him to anyone in need of zealous and effective representation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I refer all of my criminal cases to Bill. Bill provides exceptional service to his clients and is a superb advocate. Bill always goes to great lengths to make sure he achieves a favorable outcome for his clients. Bill is very well respected in the legal community and any client would be lucky to have him as their attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Bill makes it seem evident he loves what he does. Flexibility in meeting clients at times they need him most is just one of the reasons he is a truly dedicated defense attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Bill is the most passionate attorney I have ever met, he advocates for his clients. He is an excellent attorney and person. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Bill for several years as we attended law school together. His passion and hard work makes him stand out among the rest. He cares about his clients and works hard to get great results. I highly recommend him."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Bill expertly advocates on behalf of his clients. Well respected in the legal community and is always well prepared for all proceedings. A great asset to our profession."
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Warren Criminal defense Lawyer William M. Barnwell
William M. Barnwell
Criminal defense Attorney
Warren, MI
Licensed for 7 years
Free Consultation