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William M. Barnwell

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also known as Bill Barnwell
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Avvo Rating10
  • Warren, MI
  • Licensed for 6 years
  • Free consultation
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William M. Barnwell
William M. Barnwell
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About William

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 a 15 year experienced leader in the non-profit community, 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.

Criminal defense is 100% of Bill's practice 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 (810) 394-2952 to begin addressing your legal need. 

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Practice areas

Sex crimeDUI and DWICriminal defense
  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%

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

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Contact

Barnwell Law, PLLC

5182 CUTTY LANE
WARREN, MI, 48092

Website
http://www.BarnwellDefense.com 

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    MIActive And In Good Standing201505/24/2021
    We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers40
    Legal guides0
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    Top 10 AttorneyAttorney and Practice Magazine2021
    10 Best for Client SatisfactionAmerican Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys2021
    10 Best for Client SatisfactionAmerican Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys2020
    Rising StarSuper Lawyers2020
    Top 40 Under 40National Trial Lawyers2019
    Top 10 Under 40National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys2019
    Top 40 Lawyers Under 40American Society of Legal Advocates2019
    Rising StarSuper Lawyers2019
    10 Best for Client SatisfactionAmerican Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys2018
    Top 10 Under 40National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys2018
    Top 40 Lawyers Under 40American Society of Legal Advocates2018
    Rising StarSuperLawyers2018
    Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2017
    Top 40 Under 40National Trial Lawyers2017
    10 BestAmerican Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys2017
    Outstanding Community RecognitionCity of Warren2015
    Outstanding Community RecognitionCity of Warren2014
    Moot Court FinalistMoot Court2013
    Moot Court FinalistWestern Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School2013
    Trial ParticipantNational Mock Trial2013
    Outstanding Community RecognitionCity of Warrren2013
    Trial ParticipantNational Mock Trial2012
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    Attorney-at-LawBarnwell Law, PLLC2015 - Present
    Director/Non-ProfitROC2002 - Present
    ProfessorCMI2006 - 2014
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    Macomb County Bar FoundationTrustee2018 - Present
    Criminal Defense Attorneys of MichiganMember2018 - Present
    Macomb County Bar AssociationYoung Lawyer Section Director2018 - Present
    State Appellate Defenders OfficeMember2018 - Present
    American Bar AssociationMember2015 - Present
    State Bar of MichiganMember2015 - Present
    Macomb County Indigent DefenseMember2015 - Present
    Macomb County Criminal Defense SectionMember2013 - Present
    Macomb County Bar AssociationMember2012 - Present
    Publications
    Publication nameTitleDate
    Bar Briefs (MCBA)I Have My P Number, Now What?2019
    Macomb County Bar AssociationPresumed Guilty2018
    Macomb County Bar AssociationRecent Criminal Procedure Changes Offer Litigation Opportunities2015
    Macomb County Bar Association"Expungement Reforms Await Action by House."2014
    LRC.comProblems with Federal Prosecutions2004
    LRC.comGrand Jury Reform2000
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    Western Michigan University Cooley Law SchoolJD - Juris Doctor2015
    Bethel CollegeMA - Masters2006
    Bethel CollegeMA - Masters2005
    Bethel CollegeBA - Bachelor of Arts2002
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    So I Have My P Number, Now What?Starting a Successful Legal Practice2019
    Macomb County Bar FoundationIllegal Steroid Use Mock Trial2018
    3rd Annual Macomb Bar Foundation Mock Trial -- "Should the Electoral College Be Abolished?"Electoral College Mock Trial2017
    Senior Estate PlanningEstate Planning2017
    "Police Stops, Searches, and Protecting Your Rights"Criminal Defense2017
    Protecting our ChildrenOpiate Awareness2016
    Senior Safety Strategies.Criminal Safety2016
    Keeping Our Kids SafeDrug Awareness2016
    Brown City CampYoung Adult Issues2014
    Mancelona Family CampTeenagers and Families2007
    Legal cases
    Case nameOutcome
    People v. HiggsTrial Victory, Not Guilty
    People v. FranDismissed
    People v. EdwardsJury Trial Victory; Not Guilty
    People v. BlackNot Guilty Jury Verdict
    People v. JonesJury Trial Victory, not guilty
    People v. ShankReduced to simple possession with possibility of 7411
    People v. EnryaDismissed
    People v. ChristosReduced to 771, to come off client's record
    Melistas v. MelistasConsent divorce
    People v. CheneBoth Cases Dimissed
    State of Michigan v. HopkinsCase dismissed with prejudice
    People v. OdishWell below guidelines sentence
    People v. ClarkeDismissed with prejudice
    People v. ScottDismissed
    People v. ButlerDismissed
    People v. SmithReduced

    Reviews

    (181)
    5 Star
    		100%
    4 Star
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    3 Star
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    Review William Barnwell

    Bill kept me out of jail on a THIRD VOP

    Posted by

    Bill Barnwell is the only lawyer I trust with my life. I had my third probation violation in Oakland County on an OWI charge and he worked his magic by making sure I walked out of there with only minimal changes to my probation guidlines. I have needed Bill's assistance more than once and each and every time I thought I was going to jail, I was able to go home that day thanks to Bill.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    A great lawyer that will fight for your rights and keep you informed during the whole process

    Posted by

    Thank you Mr Barnwell great criminal defense lawyer and he knows the law and your rights. Mr. Barnwell fought for my rights. Had a great outcome on my case. Mr. Barnwell constantly kept me informed about my case. Not only is a Mr.barnwell a great lawyer but a great person and he cares passionately about you and your case. I couldn't have hired a better attorney.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Jacqueline Nelson

    Posted by

    William Barnwell's support exceeded my expectations. He is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and works to understand his clients along with the context of their situation to guide his support. I feel as though he really cares and i am thankful for his representation.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Case Dismissed

    Posted by

    So I found him while in Africa and he was ready to start my case right then, once I hired him he got right on my case and answered any questions I had and gave me great advice. I highly recommend him and if need me I would hire him again if I have to
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Driving with suspended while on Probation

    Posted by

    He helped me with my situation and was able to plea my case to make sure I didn’t violate probation. He is my go to lawyer for all needs and will fight to get what you want. 10/10 recommended.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Manager

    Posted by

    Bill Barnwell took excellent care of our family when we needed it most! We truly felt like we had a friend by our side. Answered every text or call promptly, reassuring us every step of the way. He was successful in getting the charges reduced and priced fairly. I wouldn't hesitate to refer Bill Barnwell, he will work hard for you!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Best Lawyer in Michigan

    Posted by

    I contacted Bill Barnwell for some help with a speeding ticket and he went above and beyond for me. He made sure I got the best possible outcome for my case, which is exactly what happened. No points on my record!! I am so thankful I came across such an incredible lawyer. He was very patient with me, quick to respond, and knows exactly what he’s doing. I had a great experience with Bill Barnwell. 10/10
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Mr. Barnwell kept me out of jail for the second retail fraud offence

    Posted by

    Mr.barnwell made sure i got probation instead of jail time for my offense. I got another chance for recovery. Very great service & professional highly recommend bill for anyone in need.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Best lawyer I know

    Posted by

    Great lawyer. Got me off from doing jail time multiple times, great attitude, and greatly experienced.. The best lawyer I’ve had so far .. I give him 5 stars ..
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    DISMISSED SO EASILY!

    Posted by

    Didn’t have to say anything! Mr. Barnwell did an amazing job with my case! I was so nervous but he let me know everything I needed to far in advance and quickly got my case dismissed! It was “the best” court experience you could ask for!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    See all reviews

    Attorney endorsements

    (29)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

    Joshua Rubin, Criminal defense Attorney on May 27, 2021
    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.

    Bruce Leach, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 1, 2021
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. Bill is a great trial lawyer and experienced winner. He will fight for your rights!

    Mani Khavajian, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 26, 2019
    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.

    Katherine Krysak, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 2, 2019
    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.

    Rahul Aggarwal

    Attorney provides excellent advice to the legal community.

    Derek Jacques, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 12, 2018
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Barnwell is an excellent advocate for his clients.

    Loren Dickstein, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 24, 2018
    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.

    Gary Kennedy, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 21, 2018
    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.

    Samuel Bennett, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 21, 2017
    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.

    John Elkhoury, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 15, 2017
    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.

    Scott Rabaut, Criminal defense Attorney on May 30, 2017
    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.

    Randall Chioini, Criminal defense Attorney on May 24, 2017
    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.

    Matthew Van Steenkiste, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 28, 2017
    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.

    Zoran Mitrovski, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 26, 2017
    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.

    Andrew Hubbs, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 8, 2017
    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.

    Laura Polizzi, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 7, 2017
    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.

    Danny Horen, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 8, 2017
    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.

    Mitchell Manwell, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 7, 2017
    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.

    Michael Scharf, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 18, 2016
    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.

    Ryan Zemke

    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.

    Cost

    RATES
      • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs
        30 minutes
      OTHER BILLING TYPES
      • Retainer Some attorneys require an upfront payment to secure their services before they begin their work.
        Always
      PAYMENT METHODS

      Cash, Check, Credit Card