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Deanna L. Kelley

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Avvo Rating10
  • Milford, MI
  • Licensed for 28 years
  • Free consultation
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About Deanna

After spending more than ten years as an Assistant Oakland County Prosecutor, I left in 2003 to specialized in criminal defense.  We take pride in aggressively representing our client's individual needs.  We are proud of our stellar reputation and have never paid one penny in order to advertise for a client. 

Practice areas

OtherDomestic violenceDUI and DWISex crimeViolent crime
  1. Violent crime: 15%

    28 years

  2. Sex crime: 15%

    28 years

  3. DUI and DWI: 10%

    28 years

  4. Domestic violence: 10%

    28 years

  1. Drug Crime: 10%

    28 years

  2. Expungement: 10%

    28 years

  3. Federal crime: 10%

    18 years

  4. Juvenile law: 10%

    28 years

  5. White collar crime: 10%

    28 years

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

746716 1612409362

Contact

Deanna L. Kelley, PLLC

545 Main Street
Suite 302
Milford, MI, 48381

      Resume

      License
      StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
      MIActive And In Good Standing199307/21/2021
      We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
      Avvo Contributions
      Legal answers59
      Legal guides0
      Awards
      Award nameGrantorDate granted
      Super LawyerSuperLawyers2020
      Super LawyerSuperLawyers2020
      Super LawyerSuperLawyers2019
      Super LawyerSuperLawyers2018
      Super LawyerSuperLawyers2017
      Super LawyerSuperLawyers2016
      Top Women Attorneys in MichiganSuperLawyers2016
      SuperLawyerSuperLawyers2015
      Top Women Attorneys in MichiganSuperLawyers2015
      Top Women Attorneys in MichiganSuperLawyers2014
      Top ContributorAVVO2014
      Top AttorneyAVVO2014
      SuperLawyerSuperLawyers2014
      10 RatingAVVO2013
      Client's Choice AwardAVVO2013
      dbusiness 2014 Top Lawyersdbusiness Top Lawyers2013
      Super LawyerMichigan Super Lawyers2013
      FellowOakland County Bar Association2012
      Distinguished Service AwardOakland County Prosecutor's Office2003
      Work Experience
      TitleCompany nameDuration
      Founding Partner/Managing PartnerDeanna L. Kelley, PLLC2003 - Present
      Founding Partner/Managing PartnerKelley Bilkovic Markus Vitale Law Firm2011 - 2014
      Assistant ProsecutorOakland County Prosecutor's Office1993 - 2003
      Associations
      Association namePosition nameDuration
      Michigan Indigent Defense CommissionFaculty2020 - Present
      Oakland County Bar FoundationFellow2012 - Present
      State Bar of MichiganMember2003 - Present
      Oakland County Bar AssociationMemberN/A
      Brain injury Association of MichiganLecturer at Legal Conference.2014 - 2014
      State Appellate Defender OfficeMember2004 - 2012
      Criminal Defense Attorneys of MichiganMemberN/A
      Publications
      Publication nameTitleDate
      Institute of Continuing Legal Education (Michigan)Michigan Model Criminal Jury Instructions with ICLE Commentary2020
      Institute of Continuing Legal Education (Michigan)Michigan Model Criminal Jury Instructions with ICLE Commentary2019
      Institute of Continuing Legal Education (Michigan)Michigan Model Criminal Jury Instructions with ICLE Commentary2018
      Institute of Continuing Legal Education (Michigan)Michigan Model Criminal Jury Instructions with ICLE Commentary2017
      Institute of Continuing Legal Education (Michigan)Michigan Model Criminal Jury Instructions with ICLE Commentary2016
      Institute of Continuing Legal Education (Michigan)Michigan Model Criminal Jury Instructions with ICLE Commentary2015
      The Institute of Continuing Legal EducationMichigan Model Criminal Jury Instructions with ICLE Commentary2014
      Education
      School nameDegreeGraduated
      Thomas M. Cooley Law SchoolJD - Juris Doctor1993
      University of Detroit Mercy School of LawN/AN/A
      Speaking Engagements
      Conference nameTitleDate
      Annual Legal ConferenceLegal Conference2014
      Thomas M. Cooley Law SchoolWomen in the LawN/A
      Oakland Community College Police AcademyLaws of Suspect IDN/A
      Oakland Community College Police AcademySuspect IdentificationN/A
      Oakland Community College Police AcademyLaws of EvidenceN/A
      Legal cases
      Case nameOutcome
      US v GPCharges avoided!
      State of Michigan v ABViolation of Probation dismissed!
      State of Michigan v BGCharges avoided!
      People v PCCharges avoided!
      State of Michigan v JH; In re. MHCharges avoided and parental rights preserved!
      State of Michigan v BDNOT GUILTY
      People v KLCase Dismissed
      State of Michigan v KWCHARGES DISMISSED
      State of Michigan v TVJury Verdict of NOT GUILTY!
      State of Michigan v RVNo criminal charges
      State of Michigan v JYClient spent 3 months in jail instead of 20 years!
      KV v DEPPO denied against client & granted against other party instead!
      In the Matter of RYNo criminal charges
      People v B. JacksonNot Guilty
      State of Michigan v DDCase dismissed after Mrs. Kelley uncovered false statements by the police in the search warrant.
      People v Charles LNot Guilty
      People v D. DavisCase Dismissed
      State of Michigan v JGNo jail. Probation terminated
      People v Patricia T.Prevented felony criminal charges.
      People v Peggy RCharges dismissed (10 felony tax fraud & embezzlement charges)
      People v Michael B.All charges dismissed (larceny)
      People v John WFound Not Guilty
      People v Thomas AFound Not Guilty
      People v Frank PCharges Dismissed (felony weapons & alcohol charges)
      People v Ken HFound Not Guilty of Criminal Sexual Conduct

      Reviews

      (30)
      5 Star
      		100%
      4 Star
      		0%
      3 Star
      		0%
      2 Star
      		0%
      1 Star
      		0%
      Review Deanna Kelley

      Excellent legal representation

      Posted by

      Deanna represented me in a 2nd DUI case out of the 52nd district court. She came up with a solution for the most favorable outcome in my scenario and was able to work with my specific judge to make this happen. The outcome was exactly what we were both looking for in my particular case based on the situation she was given. Deanna and her paralegal Shirley are excellent to work with, very timely and able to get a hold of either of them very easily. I would recommend Deanna, she was well respected in the 52nd court and seems to very well known in the legal community.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Wonderful lawyer, Great person,

      Posted by

      Through her representation my outcome was “best case scenario”. She represented me in the best possible light. She was ALWAYS available to answer any questions I had and to keep my anxiety at bay. SHE KNOWS THE LAW.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Great result

      Posted by

      Years ago I sat on a jury for one of Ms Kelley's trials. I realized she was the best prepared attorney in the room, and she prevailed for her client in a difficult case. Later when our family needed a great lawyer in a difficult case, I knew who to call. We got a favorable result and Deanna communicated with us throughout the case. Highly recommended.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Personable

      Posted by

      I had to hire Deanna for a certain case that was very troubling to me and my family. She was very personable and understanding. I felt like she really cared. She was realistic as well and tells you every potential outcome to the case, whether good or bad. It was scary but you need to know this stuff. I would definately recommend.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Excellent Attorney!

      Posted by

      Deanna did a fantastic job representing me in 48th District Court. My case had the potential for jail time and loss of my professional licensure, neither of which happened. Deanna is very knowledgeable about the relevant law, well respected by the Judges and other lawyers, and is compassionate and responsive to her clients needs and concerns. Deanna walked me through each step of the process so I could make informed decisions, and ultimately we ended up with the best result possible in front of a very tough Judge. I whole heartedly recommend you hire Deanna for any criminal charges you may have in Oakland County.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      I had made a big mistake.

      Posted by

      I hired Mrs Kelley to represent me in a DUI case. I had never been arrested previously and didn't know what to do or expect. She was upfront blunt and candid with my situation. She provided me with outstanding advice and led me through what seemed like a lengthy litigation process. It was clear to me she was highly respected by the Prosecutor and Judges. Through her efforts I was able to plead to a lesser offense. If I ever am in need of legal advice or services, I would not hesitate to call her.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Words cant express how amazing this attorney is...

      Posted by

      I hired Mrs. Kelley for a situation involving my daughter with CPS. The twist being that I was not the one present when the incident occurred. That did not stop them from going after me though. Deanna opened there eyes and stopped the entire thing from happening. Not to mention, she was amazing at picking me back up during such an emotional time. Case ended up getting dismissed. To this day, Deanna always give fantastic legal advise and she is always right on what is going to happen. This lady knows her stuff. Deanna will be the ONLY criminal attorney I seek for myself and point other people towards.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney
      Deanna Kelley's response: Thank you for your kind words.

      Parent Hired Deanna For Teenager, Case Dismissed!

      Posted by

      Deanna is a fantastic lawyer, no one better working today. The City of Novi gave our teenager a Criminal charge for possessing a B.B. gun. Deanna discovered the ordinance went against Michigan State Law, which says B.B. Guns are not illegal and the case was dismissed by the judge- UNCONSTITUTIONAL! Thank You Deanna for all your help, DF.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney
      Deanna Kelley's response: It was my pleasure! Best of luck to your son, who will now be able to start college with a clean record!

      She really is a pretty big deal!"

      Posted by

      We found ourselves in an unimaginable situation with our teenage child and CPS. Deanna was professional and true from the very first conversation. She was always responsive, factual regardless of how ugly the answer was. Our case was quickly dismissed once she took lead. I hope we never find ourselves in that position again but if we do knowing I have someone like Deanna repersenting makes the heartache a little less. Thank you being passionate and caring in what you do. ~Cindy
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney
      Deanna Kelley's response: Thank you. Yours was one of those situations that the average citizen thinks will never happen to them. Luckily, you were smart enough to hire an attorney from the very beginning, which allowed us to work together toward the right result. That dismissal felt great, didn't it? I hope you are home enjoying your beautiful family right now!

      Best Lawyer

      Posted by

      Deanna Kelley and her team were absolutely great. Always answered any question or concerns I had right away no matter how small and made me feel like I was was her only client. From the first time we met she gave me a great out look on things and held true to everything she talked about right up til she got my case dismissed. If you are looking for a great lawyer that will fight for your rights and be by your side the whole way then there is no better than Deanna Kelley. Again thank you for everything.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney
      Deanna Kelley's response: Thank you, Dan! It was a pleasure representing you, and I'm so happy we were able to achieve a great result for you!
      See all reviews

      Attorney endorsements

      (15)
      Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

      Maxwell Goss, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 6, 2020
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Deanna is a smart, compassionate, and effective advocate known for helping clients with tough problems.

      Joseph Lavigne, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 7, 2015
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Deanna Kelley is a consummate professional. She is bright, honest, very hard working, well prepared, very well respected, and does a great job for her clients. She is a credit to our profession and is the kind of attorney I would want to have by my side if I ever needed counsel.

      Renee Gucciardo, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 14, 2014
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer. I have worked with Deanna for over 20 years, and have seen her litigate both as a prosecutor and a defense attorney. Deanna is an extremely talented attorney who aggressively fights for her client's rights. I have referred Deanna many clients over the years and they all have had extremely positive experiences with her. Not only did she passionately advocate for the clients, but she was very sensitive to the incredible stress that they were experiencing. I would highly recommend Deanna.

      Jeffry Landis, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 11, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Deanna is one of the most competent, knowledgeable and caring criminal defense attorneys I have consulted with and observed in my 30+ years of practice. I have recommended her to a number of business clients for use by their employees, friends and family members, and have had only enthusiastic and positive feedback regarding each matter handled by her, which is unique in her difficult and specialized practice area. I highly recommend and endorse Deanna.

      Todd Fox, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 18, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Deanna Kelley is an outstanding attorney. I have known her for many years. Deanna and I opposed each other many times while she worked for the Oakland County Prosecutors Office. She is always prepared, truly cares about her clients and has a very strong and positive presence in the courtroom. Deanna is a credit to our profession and I highly recommend her to anyone seeking a Criminal Defense Attorney.

      James Amberg, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 2, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I've been a colleague of Deanna for many years and will tell anybody and everybody that she is not only an exceptional criminal attorney who has no problem bulldogging down any prosecutor around, she is one of the most compassionate and caring people who walk this earth. And when it's your life on the line, it really helps when your lawyer is a bulldog, while at the same time truly cares about you and what will happen to you. Call Deanna, she's the best!!!!!

      Starla Zehr, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 18, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Deanna is a highly effective and knowledgeable criminal defense attorney well respected by both bench and bar. Deanna is an outstanding advocate and will zealously pursue every possible defense to obtain favorable results for her clients. I endorse this lawyer without reservation. Anyone that needs an attorney in the area of criminal defense would be wise to consult with her.

      Randall Lewis, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 15, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer. Deanna Kelley is a top criminal defense attorney and great trial lawyer. She fights for her clients and has a proven track record with results. Anyone will be well represented with Deanna by their side.

      Jonathan Paul, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 15, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Ms. Kelley articulates thoughtful and reasoned analysis of criminal defense issues. She is an asset to the legal community.

      David Pittman

      I endorse this lawyer. Her answers on AVVO are always well thought out and thorough. She clearly has excellent experience and knowledge in her area of practice.

      Alona Sharon, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 14, 2013
      Relationship: Worked together on matter

      I have had the pleasure of knowing Deanna Kelley and learning from Deanna for the past 8 years. She has a strong presence in the courtroom and is always prepared for whatever the prosecution or the court throws at her. She is skilled at exposing the weaknesses in the prosecution's case all while taking the time to explain to her clients the complexities of their cases.

      Brian Prain, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 13, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      As a criminal defense attorney, if I were facing a criminal charge myself, there are colleagues whom I would turn to for help and those whom I would not trust. Deanna Kelley is one of about 4 or 5 that I would count on because she has proven herself again and again. Whether you're seeking a plea deal or planning to fight your charges all the way by taking it to Trial, Deanna is the lawyer who will pay attention to those important facts that lesser attorneys ignore, and her meticulously planned Trial strategies unravel like an intimidating checkmate that Prosecutors don't realize they're in until it's too late. I'm not being forced to write this review, so let the very fact that I felt compelled to give this endorsement stand as a testament to Deanna's prowess in the courtroom.

      Aaron Boria, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 13, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Deanna Kelley is one of the best lawyers I have ever known. If I were arrested I would call Ms. Kelley. She is aggressive, compassionate, and incredibly intelligent. I endorse this lawyer.

      Loren Dickstein, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 13, 2013
      Relationship: Worked together on matter

      Deanna Kelley is an outstanding criminal defense lawyer and a well respected litigator. When she was a prosecutor, many defense lawyers dreaded her courtroom prowess and ability to communicate and persuade a jury. Deanna's ability to achieve amazing results for her clients is well known and many defense lawyers seek out her advice when an issue they are facing is unusually complex or difficult. Judges and prosecutors know that when Deanna Kelley appears in court, she will do everything possible to win! I highly endorse and respect Attorney Deanna Kelley.

      Chad Engelhardt, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 6, 2010
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Deanna is a talented and hard working trial attorney. I have been privileged to work with her on several cases, and have been very impressed with her skills in and out of the court room. Her keen intellect, exceptional insight, work ethic, and background as a prosecutor make her a fantastic criminal defense attorney. I highly recommend and endorse this lawyer.

      Cost

      RATES
        • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs
          30 minutes
        PAYMENT METHODS

        Cash, Check, Credit Card