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Timothy A. Dinan

Ethics and professional responsibility Attorney at Grosse Pointe, MI

5.0   67 reviews
Licensed for 29 years Free consultation
Licensed for 29 years Free consultation

About Timothy

Learn Timothy’s areas of practice.

4
Practice areas
  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.

    19 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.

    29 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.

    29 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.

    29 years

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 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), 

=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.

 

Awards

Client's Choice 2020,2019,2018,2017,2016,2013
Client's Choice
2020 2019 2018 + 3 ...
Top Contributor 2013,2012
Top Contributor
2013 2012

Photos and videos

Licensed for 29 years
State AZ
Status Active
Acquired 2011
Updated 03/17/2023
State MI
Status Active in Good Standing
Acquired 1994
Updated 04/08/2023

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

Contact Timothy

Dinan Legal Services, PLLC
702 Notre Dame
Suite 103
Grosse Pointe, MI, 48230

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  67 customer reviews
5 Star
 
100%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
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Client's Choice 2020
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by Martin | May 15, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Character and Fitness Clearance
I contacted Mr. Dinan in November 2022 regarding a Character and Fitness Committee Meeting I needed to clear to receive my character and fitness clearance. Mr. Dinan provided me with ample information about the committee meeting, ensuring that nothing came as a surprise. Additionally, he dedicated time to preparing me for the committee's questions, so I wasn't caught off guard by any of their inquiries. If you're facing character and fitness issues, I would definitely recommend Mr. Dinan.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | April 28, 2023
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Beyond Helpful!
Mr. Dinan was more than helpful during our conversation. It became very quickly apparent to me that Mr. Dinan has a passion to help others and went above and beyond to provide me with not only legal advice, but personal advice as well which was more than appreciated. If you're looking for someone you can trust and that actually cares, go see Mr. Dinan!
Read less
Posted by Patrick | March 20, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
License Reinstatement
Tim was recommended to me after experiencing numerous issues with a previous attorney to petition for reinstatement of my driving privileges. Tim was thorough, provided sound advice and made sure to set my expectations accurately. A true professional and managed my case as well as I could have hoped for. I strongly recommend considering Tim and would certainly retain him in the future should a need ever arise.
Read less
Posted by Billy | October 12, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Civil infarction
Tim was patient and communicated very well. It took 8 months for my tickets to be resolved and I am glad that Tim was always there for me. He told me what to expect and what each step would be. No gimmicks and straight to the point. Tim is great to work with!
Posted by Jon | October 12, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommended
Tim took a look at my account of what happened, the evidence, then made a determination of how to proceed. He did a ton of research and advised me all through the process taking in a lot of facts and other factors that I would never have thought of. The case outcome was way better than I thought possible.
Posted by Connor | January 7, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Applicant to State Bar
Tim has been my attorney for the better part of three years. I came to him while in law school regarding the Michigan State Bar Character and Fitness process. Tim was instrumental in helping me achieve a C&F clearance. I am entirely certain I would not have passed C&F if not for Mr. Dinan. He is the best attorney I have ever had and he was 100% invested in myself and my case's outcome. I hold Tim in the highest regard and would recommend him to anyone. Especially those applying to the Michigan State Bar. Without Tim's guidance, wisdom, and abilities, I would not have passed through C&F. I am certain of this.
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Posted by anonymous | July 6, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very knowledgeable and helpful!
I was referred to Mr. Dinan by another attorney regarding an issue with the Michigan Board of Law Examiners. Although I did not require his full services, Tim's advice during a consultation was instrumental in my success with the Board. Highly recommend!
Posted by anonymous | April 25, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Counsellor
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.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | April 19, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Tim Dinan: Representation
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.
Posted by anonymous | December 3, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Character and Fitness Representation
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.
Posted by John | October 17, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer
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.
Read less
Response from Timothy Dinan April 15, 2021
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.
Read less
Posted by Rob | July 14, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Sincerity & Specialized Competence
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.
Read less
Response from Timothy Dinan July 20, 2020
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.
Posted by Michael | April 15, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Excellent Services, Highly Recommend
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.
Response from Timothy Dinan July 20, 2020
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.
Posted by anonymous | February 23, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Couldn’t have asked for a better outcome
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.
Read less
Response from Timothy Dinan July 20, 2020
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.
Posted by anonymous | February 12, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A great experience.
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.
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Response from Timothy Dinan February 24, 2020
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.
Posted by Steve | December 20, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer in the state!
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!
Response from Timothy Dinan January 14, 2020
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.
Posted by anonymous | December 10, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Excellent Advice
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!
Read less
Response from Timothy Dinan December 20, 2019
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.
Posted by anonymous | October 18, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Reliable Service
It was a great experience dealing with Mr. Dinan. I had three tickets that were ultimately dropped and resulted in no additional fines. Would call Mr. Dinan anytime I needed help!
Response from Timothy Dinan December 20, 2019
Experience and knowledge of the court served both my client and I well. Glad to have been a help.
Posted by William | August 8, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Williams review
Timothy got my license restored he did a job thank you the guy was awesome thanks again Tim dinan
Response from Timothy Dinan August 9, 2019
This was another example where hard work by the client collaborating with my office to give the Secretary of State the needed proofs to show that the client is eligible to drive again. Thank you for the kind words.
Posted by Daniel | June 13, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Lawyer Ever !!!
Tim represented me in a criminal case and was there from start to finish. He got me a great deal where as long as I complete all the probation terms ( which I plan to do) , the charge will fall off my record. Highly recommend him !!!
Response from Timothy Dinan August 9, 2019
I was contacted early in this client's process and, by working with my client and the government, derived a better than expected result. I appreciate my client's praise, but need to recognize all of the client's efforts and willingness to accept responsibility in a manner that impressed the judge.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 10 minutes
  • Hourly Rates $ 200-400 per hour
  • Contingency 25%-40%
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Adjunct Professor
  • MSU College of Law
  • 2010 - Present
  • Adjunct Professor
  • Eastern Michigan University
  • 2006 - Present
  • Bar Essay Preparation Lecturer
  • Bar-Bri of Michigan
  • 2004 - Present
  • Sole Practitioner
  • Dinan & Associates, PC
  • 1998 - Present
  • Adjunct Professor
  • University of Detroit Mercy School of Law
  • 2007 - 2009
  • Special Assistant Attorney General
  • Michigan Attorney General Office
  • 1994 - 2000
  • Associate Attorney
  • Siemion Huckabay Bodary Padilla Morganti & Bowerman
  • 1994 - 1998
  • Forward Observer/Scout
  • Micihgan National Guard
  • 1984 - 1992
View all work experience

Education

  • Detroit College of Law
  • Juris Doctor
  • 1993
  • Michigan State Univeristy
  • Political Philosophy
  • 1988
  • Uinversity of Detroit High School
  • Diploma
  • 1983

Legal Cases

  • In Re Bar Applicant v. State Bar of Michigan
  • Client granted privileges to practice

Associations

  • Lakeshore Bar Association
  • Executive Director
  • 2008 - Present
  • State Bar of Michigan, Criminal Law Section
  • Member
  • 2005 - Present
  • Hellenic Bar Association
  • Member - Past President
  • 1999 - Present
  • Incorporated Society of Irish American Lawyers
  • Member
  • 1999 - Present
  • Business Networking International - Pipeline Chapter
  • President
  • 2008 - 2011
  • CCW Defenders of Michigan, LLC
  • Executive Director/General Counsel
  • 2008 - 2013
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Super Lawyer
  • Michigan Super Lawyers
  • 2016
  • Super Lawyer
  • Michigan Super Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Super Lawyer
  • Michigan Super Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Super Lawyer
  • Michigan Super Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Top Lawyer in Detroit
  • Detroit Business
  • 2012
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2012
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2011
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2010
  • Fellow - State Bar of Michigan Foundation
  • State Bar of Michigan
  • 2009
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2009
  • AV Rating - Current Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2007
View all awards

Publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Solo and Small Practice Institute
  • Practice Analytics
  • 2013
  • Start up Your Career!
  • Starting up a Practice - Leaving your employer
  • 2008
  • Bar Preparation Lectures
  • Michigan Bar Examination Preparation
  • 2008
  • Criminal Advocacy Program - Wayne County Circuit Court
  • Ethics and Efficiency
  • 2007
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (33)
Given (37)
Endorse Timothy
Administrative law Attorney | Jun 20
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."
Administrative law Attorney | May 31
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."
Administrative law Attorney | Apr 28
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."
Administrative law Attorney | Mar 23
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."
Ethics and professional responsibility Attorney | Jul 05
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."
Unknown Attorney | Oct 12
Relationship: Other
"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."
Unknown Attorney | Feb 26
Relationship: Other
"A highly experienced, well-rounded and compassionate attorney. I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Dec 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Timothy. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Ethics and professional responsibility Attorney | Jan 25
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 21
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."
Ethics and professional responsibility Attorney | Jan 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Jan 02
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"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!"
Licensing Attorney | Nov 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 07
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."
Administrative law Attorney | Oct 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Tim is a great problem solver"
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 11
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 27
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."
View more endorsements
Personal injury
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Litigation
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Divorce and separation
Litigation
Car accident
Litigation
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
General practice
Grosse Pointe Ethics and professional responsibility Lawyer Timothy A. Dinan
Timothy A. Dinan
Ethics and professional responsibility Attorney
Grosse Pointe, MI
Licensed for 29 years
Free Consultation