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Timothy A. Dinan

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Avvo Rating10
  • Grosse Pointe Park, MI
  • Licensed for 27 years
  • Free consultation
Timothy A. Dinan
Timothy A. Dinan
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About Timothy

Aggressive. Dedicated. Experienced. Focused on you. Call today for a free consultation.

Criminal Law

You will not get a postcard or an e-mail when you or a loved one is arrested. It will feel as if someone kicked you in the gut. My mission as a criminal defense lawyer is to protect your interests, fight for your rights and teach you about the criminal justice system. I work for you, not the courts or the prosecutor. We work with you to hold the government to their proofs and to make sure you receive all the benefits the criminal justice system offers. We don't charge for initial conferences, so call 313-821-5904 at any time.

I carefully guide you through the criminal justice system, protect your rights and ensure your complete understanding of the law.  I will help you make the decisions you need to make and provide guidance so you'll never find yourself in that position again.

Attorney Misconduct Representation

I am proud to be an 'attorney's attorney' in my representation of attorneys before the Michigan Attorney Grievance Commision and the Michigan Attorney Discipline Board.  I handle all aspects of representaion from responses to Requests for Investigation to appellate briefs.  I have tried matters and entered into positive arrangements for my clients that allows them to continue their work as a lawyer without interruption.

Attorney Licensing/Character and Fitness

In the area of attorney licensing in Michigan and meeting the State Bar of Michigan's Character and Fitness requirements, I have successfully represented candidates for admission through careful preparation and proper presentation to the various committees since 2004.  This is true for suspended or bisbarred attorneys seeking readmission, too.  My book, 'Manual on the Character and Fitness Process for Application to the Michigan State Bar' (Available on Amazon), 

https://www.amazon.com/Character-Fitness-Process-Application-Michigan/dp/1496934105/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=Timothy+Dinan+book&qid=1595255581&sr=8-2

explains the application process from filling out the application to hearings before the Board of Law Examiners.  I wrote the book for practitioners and law students alike to understand what is expected of them in the process.

Teaching and Tutoring

Teaching is a great part of my work.  I like the feedback and I always learn from my students.  Teaching is what I do for all of my clients.  I teach them the law, criminal or civil procedure (depending on the type of case), and let them know the consequences of the choices they will make.

Success in my practice comes from creating and developing networks.  I believe that the more networks of which you are a part, the greater chance you will find the attorney you want or get the name of the attorney you need.  If I cannot help you, I can help you find the attorney you need.

 

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Practice areas

ExpungementDUI and DWICriminal defenseEthics and professional responsibility
  1. Ethics and professional responsibility: 45%

    I represent attorneys, applicants for the bar, and other professionals before the ADB, SBM Standing Committee, and other administrative bodies. I work with suspended and disbarred attorneys to get them back to practice.

    17 years

  2. Criminal defense: 30%

    My office specializes in criminal litigation and its connected civil litigation. I have handled thousands of cases ranging from simple traffic matters to capital crimes. I have a strong background in firearms cases, crimes involving self-defense and now head CCW Defenders of Michigan, an organization focused on the needs and concerns of Michigan's Concealed Pistol License holders.

    27 years

  3. DUI and DWI: 15%

    If you've been issued a DUI in the state of Michigan, expect the book to be thrown at you. My experience as an aggressive and detailed DUI defender will give you the defense you deserve when fighting a DUI. Stop worrying, call immediately.

    27 years

  4. Expungement: 10%

    When you want to consider all options to have your record sealed or erased, it is important you talk to a knowledgeable lawyer who can ensure the expungement process is smooth and painless. Call now.

    27 years

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

737681 1226175505

Contact

14950 E Jefferson Ave Ste 170
Grosse Pointe Park, MI, 48230

Website
http://www.timdinan.com/ 

      Resume

      License
      StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
      AZActive 201105/30/2021
      MIActive And In Good Standing199405/24/2021
      We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
      Avvo Contributions
      Legal answers412
      Legal guides0
      Awards
      Award nameGrantorDate granted
      Super LawyerMichigan Super Lawyers2016
      Super LawyerMichigan Super Lawyers2015
      Super LawyerMichigan Super Lawyers2014
      Super LawyerMichigan Super Lawyers2013
      Super LawyerSuper Lawyers Magazine2012
      Top Lawyer in DetroitDetroit Business2012
      Super LawyerSuper Lawyers Magazine2011
      Super LawyerSuper Lawyers Magazine2010
      Super LawyerSuper Lawyers Magazine2009
      Fellow - State Bar of Michigan FoundationState Bar of Michigan2009
      AV Rating - Current RatingMartindale-Hubbell2007
      Work Experience
      TitleCompany nameDuration
      Adjunct ProfessorMSU College of Law2010 - Present
      Adjunct ProfessorEastern Michigan University2006 - Present
      Bar Essay Preparation LecturerBar-Bri of Michigan2004 - Present
      Sole PractitionerDinan & Associates, PC1998 - Present
      Adjunct ProfessorUniversity of Detroit Mercy School of Law2007 - 2009
      Special Assistant Attorney GeneralMichigan Attorney General Office1994 - 2000
      Associate AttorneySiemion Huckabay Bodary Padilla Morganti & Bowerman1994 - 1998
      Forward Observer/ScoutMicihgan National Guard1984 - 1992
      Associations
      Association namePosition nameDuration
      Lakeshore Bar AssociationExecutive Director2008 - Present
      State Bar of Michigan, Criminal Law SectionMember2005 - Present
      Hellenic Bar AssociationMember - Past President1999 - Present
      Incorporated Society of Irish American LawyersMember1999 - Present
      Business Networking International - Pipeline ChapterPresident2008 - 2011
      CCW Defenders of Michigan, LLCExecutive Director/General Counsel2008 - 2013
      Publications
      Publication nameTitleDate
      Practical Guide to Preparation for the Michigan Bar ExaminationPreparation for the Michigan Bar2009
      Education
      School nameDegreeGraduated
      Detroit College of LawJuris Doctor1993
      Michigan State UniveristyPolitical Philosophy1988
      Uinversity of Detroit High SchoolDiploma1983
      Speaking Engagements
      Conference nameTitleDate
      WebinarMI Firearms Law2013
      WebinarSetting Legal Fees2013
      Live PresentationNew Lawyers and Setting Legal Fees2013
      Solo and Small Practice InstitutePractice Analytics2013
      WebcastTrial Tactics2012
      Meeting - State Bar of Michigan YLSNew Lawyer Seminar2012
      Start up Your Career!Starting up a Practice - Leaving your employer2008
      Bar Preparation LecturesMichigan Bar Examination Preparation2008
      Criminal Advocacy Program - Wayne County Circuit CourtEthics and Efficiency2007
      Legal cases
      Case nameOutcome
      In Re Bar Applicant v. State Bar of MichiganClient granted privileges to practice

      Reviews

      (60)
      5 Star
      		100%
      4 Star
      		0%
      3 Star
      		0%
      2 Star
      		0%
      1 Star
      		0%
      Review Timothy Dinan

      Excellent Counsellor

      Posted by

      Tim helped guide me through my Character and Fitness journey. His depth of experience helped calm my nerves and kept me focused on what I needed to be doing. Tim has an admirable ability to tell you what you need to hear while calming you down at the same time. He stayed in touch throughout and was always easy to reach. I highly recommend his services.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Tim Dinan: Representation

      Posted by

      I hired Tim to assist with my character and fitness hearing. He brought a calming presence to me and my situation. He coached me on the situation I was involved in and helped me get through it in an effective manner. I would strongly recommend his services to anyone in need.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Excellent Character and Fitness Representation

      Posted by

      Tim is knowledgeable, efficient, effectively communicates processes, and resolved my issues before the Character and Fitness Committee in a professional manner with a favorable outcome. I would highly recommend Tim's services to anyone seeking Character and Fitness counsel in Michigan.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney
      Timothy Dinan's response: In Character and Fitness matters, it is always a team effort. The client must bring desire and be willing to do the work. My job is to channel that positive energy and effort into something strong and persuasive. I know how important getting the license is to any client. That is why I give it my best every time.

      Great Lawyer

      Posted by

      Tim Dinan was a great lawyer for me. He did exactly as he said he would do for me. He was continually easily accessible and available when I needed him either by phone, email or appointment. I felt like I was an important person to him. His writing skills and document that he put together for my case was superb. Very well thought out and included everything that needed to be in the document. He always left me with a feeling that I was never bothering him when I needed his service. He was very personable, helpful and overall a real pleasure to work with. I would recommend Tim Dinan to anyone who requires a lawyer for the services he provides. Thank you Tim.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney
      Timothy Dinan's response: I am humbled when a client is willing to share their satisfaction with my work. It is my job to make written submissions look like they came together easily. Effective communications takes a lot of effort. Knowing the audience, carefully choosing language and helping my clients find their voice is central to success in any legal endeavor.

      Sincerity & Specialized Competence

      Posted by

      I called Mr. Dinan's office intending only to speak with his assistant to ask about the scope of his representation. Instead, he was the one who actually answered the phone. He said this is the kind of operation he runs, where clients get to talk directly to the top folks. This was unusual and remarkable to me, as I'm used to interacting with large, hierarchical, impersonal firms. I had a difficult issue to ask him about, and he actually suggested we take a few minutes right then to have a general conversation about it for 10-15 minutes. I was seeking general thoughts about a very specialized area and unusual circumstances. He offered re-assuring and very helpful informal suggestions . More important than his suggestions were his personal demeanor and sincerity. His personal encouragement and his generosity in taking the time to talk when I called out of the blue really meant alot. Many attorneys know the law and can give solid advice, and are highly competent. However, few have the personality and sincerity that make them comfortable to deal with. I could see Mr. Dinan being someone trustworthy and re-assuring for anyone involved in a serious situation. His personality went a long way. If needed, I plan to return to him for future advice and/or representation and would be relieved to have found him.
      This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
      Consulted attorney
      Timothy Dinan's response: Thank you for your kind words. In the area of attorney licensure, it is important to have a broader understanding of the process as you enter it. Some things are a concern while others should not be. All good professional relationships start with being open and willing to share expertise.

      Excellent Services, Highly Recommend

      Posted by

      I contacted Timothy Dinan for a Character and Fitness consultation and he was very helpful, insightful, and pleasant. He is clearly well knowledgeable about his practice and I was extremely satisfied with my consultation. For others considering hiring Mr. Dinan or receiving a consultation, I highly recommend his services.
      This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
      Consulted attorney
      Timothy Dinan's response: Thank you for your kind sentiments. Some candidates come into the process with trepidation because they do not understand what it is they need to do. If I can give someone a little direction, they can avoid a load of unnecessary worry. Always glad to help.

      Couldn’t have asked for a better outcome

      Posted by

      Timothy Dinan is as great a lawyer as he is a person. I sought Tim out during a very difficult time, as most do when seeking counsel. What separated Tim from many others was his experience in dealing with matters of this kind. He candidly explained to me the process and what we could do to achieve the best outcome. Every step explained came about and more importantly, I was prepared to handle them. Ultimately, through Tim’s effort, experience, and guidance, I was given the most favorable outcome. I am truly grateful to have met Tim. I didn’t just achieve the best possible result, but came out a better person by way of having met him.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney
      Timothy Dinan's response: Thank you for your insightful comments. An attorney client relationship is necessarily a close relationship that involves a lot of revelation and self-revelation. I facilitate that relationship to optimize client results.

      A great experience.

      Posted by

      I enjoyed working with the Tim. I was grieved by another attorney. Immediately he puts you at ease. He provides perspective for where you are at legally and the process you'll be working through. I had a complicated case with a long tortuous history. He kept it all in front of us and avoided the distractions. Along the way , the things he pointed out, the reasons for doing things a certain way made me think about the way I do things in my practice. Another attorney told me he really knows his stuff so I am happy to tell you its true.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney
      Timothy Dinan's response: It is always a high compliment when a fellow attorney is willing to trust me with their work. I always believe I need to earn that trust from all of my clients so we can keep our eye on solving the problem and putting it in the past.

      Best lawyer in the state!

      Posted by

      Mr. Dinan worked so very hard on my case where I could have face a lengthy jail sentence, but his advise and guidance got me the best possible result. Thank you Tim!
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney
      Timothy Dinan's response: I am humbled by my clients every time they are willing to tell others of their good experience with my office. None of us is any better than our last case.

      Excellent Advice

      Posted by

      I talked with Tim about the Character and Fitness section of law school and the bar exam. He was extremely helpful and gave me excellent advice. I really appreciate his help and having someone to turn to when faced with the complicated Character and Fitness process. I highly recommend Tim to anyone with questions or concerns about this topic!
      This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
      Consulted attorney
      Timothy Dinan's response: This was a matter where the lawyer to be was being conscientious about disclosing all information properly. That is a good sign for future success.
      See all reviews

      Attorney endorsements

      (33)
      Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

      Michael Mitchell, Administrative law Attorney on Jun 20, 2017
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I've known Tim for a number of years and he is certainly an expert in his areas of practice. I have the utmost respect for Tim because of his integrity and character.

      David Zogheib, Administrative law Attorney on May 31, 2017
      Relationship: Worked together on matter

      A great attorney with a great reputation! I've called him several times for advice and guidance on ongoing cases, and he has always taken the time to help. You'd be hard pressed to find a better advocate.

      Russell LaPeer, Administrative law Attorney on Apr 28, 2017
      Relationship: Other

      Tim represented my in connection with administrative review of matters relating to admission to the Bar. He was outstanding: friendly, capable, insightful, effective. He is a great advocate, the best, worth far more than his reasonable fees.

      Mitchell Manwell, Administrative law Attorney on Mar 23, 2017
      Relationship: Other

      Mr. Dinan is an exceptional advocate for his clients. He is highly regarded in the legal community, and very well-respected by clients, judges, and fellow colleagues. I have seen Tim get incredible results for clients. I have personally dealt with him on a matter where he received a great outcome for his client. His depth of experience and his reliability are attributes that I greatly admire.

      Steven Mamat, Ethics and professional responsibility Attorney on Jul 5, 2016
      Relationship: Friend

      I have known Tim since my days in law school when he taught our bar seminar regarding ethics. He's an extremely knowledgeable attorney regarding the ethics system in Michigan and issues with newly graduated lawyers facing bar exam issues and fitness issues. If you are a recent law grad with bar exam issues, admittance through the ethics board or just a current lawyer with ethics questions, Tim is the best resource around. Tim is also extremely friendly and easy to work with. I HIGHLY recommend Tim for any legal matter or questions you might have.

      Jessica LaFond

      I endorse Mr. Dinan. He was extremely helpful to me with a personal matter, and I have no doubt that he gives all of his clients the same representation.

      Judd Nemiro

      A highly experienced, well-rounded and compassionate attorney. I endorse this lawyer.

      Hovanes Margarian

      I endorse this lawyer.

      Michael Waddington, Criminal defense Attorney on May 26, 2014
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

      John Freeman, Ethics and professional responsibility Attorney on Jan 25, 2014
      Relationship: Worked together on matter

      I have had the honor of working together with Tim in connection with the State Bar of Michigan's Institute of Continuing Legal Education. Tim is a true professional who will look for creative ways to solve a client's problem, no matter how difficult the situation.

      David Draper, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 21, 2014
      Relationship: Worked together on matter

      Tim is a lawyer's lawyer. He is someone I regularly turn to when I encounter a difficult legal issue. Tim runs a very efficient and successful practice.

      Matt Cross, Ethics and professional responsibility Attorney on Jan 8, 2014
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer.

      J. Catchick

      I strongly endorse Tim Dinan. I have known him for well over 10 years. He is a superb advocate who genuinely cares for his clients, and achieves excellent results. A top notch attorney!

      Glenn Mccandliss, Licensing Attorney on Nov 8, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer.

      Corey Silverstein, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 7, 2013
      Relationship: Worked together on matter

      Tim's high level of dedication and passion for his clients is indescribable. I am proud to have Tim as legal resource and friend. Highly recommended.

      John Parnell, Administrative law Attorney on Oct 24, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Tim is a great problem solver

      John Kittel, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 12, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer.

      Gerald Stahl, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 11, 2013
      Relationship: Other

      I endorse this lawyer. Tim is one of the best lawyers in the state of Michigan. He extremely knowledgeable in criminal law and uses his experience to fight for his clients.

      Natalia Gentry, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 19, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer.

      William Ausman, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 27, 2013
      Relationship: Other

      Timothy Dinan is a credit to the legal profession. If you can hire this excellent attorney, you will be glad that you did.

      Cost

      RATES
      • Hourly Rates$200-$400/hour
      • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs
        10 minutes
      OTHER BILLING TYPES
      • Contingency A contingency fee is the percent of the final award a lawyer will receive as compensation. For some of these cases, lawyers will only be paid if there is a successful outcome.
        25%-40%
      PAYMENT METHODS

      Cash, Check, Credit Card