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Edward Jacob Sternisha
also known as "Ed Instead!", You Have The Right To "Call Ed Instead!"
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About Edward
Biography
Ed is also admitted to practice in the United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan.
In addition to being licensed as an attorney, Ed is also licensed in the following areas:
- Private Investigator
- Insurance Agent
In addition to being licensed as an attorney, Ed also holds the following certifications:
- Fire Fighter I & II
- Notary Public
- CPR/First Aid Instructor
- Paralegal
- Police Officer
- Former Security Agency License Holder
- Former Armored Truck Agency License Holder
Edward is also an author of 4 books:
- Pot Pie Ashtrays: Breaking The Cycle Of Child Abuse
- Start Your Own Business: A Simple Pocket Guide
- Security Officer Training Manual: News Headlines & Review
- Understanding Legislative Term Limits
TOP RATED Drunk Driving Defense - OWI / DUI / DWI You Have The Right To Call Ed Instead!®
TOP RATED Drunk Driving Attorney. FREE Consultation.
Practice Areas
3
Practice Areas
DUI and DWI
75%
Criminal Defense
15%
Civil Rights
10%
Fees and Rates
Cost
Retainer
Always
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Awards
2025 2024 2023
...
+
9
2017 2016 2015
...
+
3
Licenses
Licensed in Michigan for 14 years
State: Michigan
Acquired: 2011
No misconduct found
Location
Law Office of Edward J. Sternisha, PLLC
(616) 512-0778
Mobile
(616) 984-4570
Fax
330 Fuller Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503
CallEdInstead.comGallery
Online Presence
Other places you can find Edward online.
Edward Jacob Sternisha's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
123 Client Reviews
Filter Avvo Reviews (123)
Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.
Practice Areas
What Clients Mention
Case Results (67)
Advocacy (61)
Recommendation (45)
Professionalism (37)
Communication Style (33)
Responsiveness (32)
Practice Area Knowledge (31)
Character & Conduct (25)
General Knowledge (24)
Cost of Services (18)
Compassion (17)
Trustworthiness (13)
Free Consultations (3)
Payment Plans (2)
Punctuality (2)
Showing 31 - 33 of 33 reviews | Communication Style
Posted by Zachariah | May 29, 2013 | DUI & DWI
An Ethical, Honest, and Smart Lawyer
As a college student completing my final term while trying to get into law school it was the worst possible time to make a life altering mistake, but I wouldn't be writing this review if I hadn't. After the end of the New Years Eve celebrations I found myself in jail facing a Super Drunk Driving Char...
Posted by anonymous | April 19, 2013 | Criminal Defense
No doubts after talking to Edward the first time
From the first time i spoke with Ed he explained everything thoroughly and patiently! This is the first time i've gotten in trouble with the law and he helped me through every step of the situation. He really got into depth with the outcomes of whatever choice i decided to go with and is a great li...
Posted by anonymous | December 24, 2013 | Criminal Defense
Prosecution's Best Advocate
Took my case because he knew I could and would pay. Suckered me into believing that he had my best interest (no jail time) in mind. Told the judge the Prosecutor agreed to no jail time and then told me he thought the judge believed him. Never informed me, after 3 court dates of the prosecution not g...
Edward Sternisha
Replied last December 24, 2013I took on this case the same as I take on every case. I always ask the client what is his or her most important goal. This client said he did not want to go to jail. With 20 convictions, 13 of which are felonies and the fact that he has already served time in prison several times, this was going to be a challenge. At the outset, the prosecutor was seeking at least 6 months in jail. Because the client was already on felony probation in two other counties, getting no jail time was going to be difficult. As time went on, the prosecutor’s office failed to produce the evidence I was requesting and the judge was getting bothered by this and made it clear after the 2nd hearing that they had one last chance. Because of this, the client began to believe the case would be dismissed if the prosecutor failed to comply by the next hearing. Prior to the next hearing, however, the prosecutor’s office supplied me with the requested materials and so we were back to focusing on the merits of the case. As with every case, I provide my clients with as much information as I can so they can make an informed decision on whether to accept a plea or go to trial. The choice is theirs. In this case, through negotiations, I was able to get the prosecutor and the felony probation officer to agree to recommend no jail time if he pleads to the crime. Since my client already admitted guilt to the prosecutor before he hired me, and he has 19 other criminal convictions, this appeared to be a good offer. My client pleaded guilty, however, the judge, considering the many, many prior convictions, decided that jail must be part of the sentence. Although the judge was handing down a 90 day jail sentence, I pleaded with her to allow my client to turn himself in after Christmas so he could spend Christmas with his family. The judge finally agreed and even gave him an incentive to turn himself in as I suggested. If he turns himself in by December 27th, the judge will automatically reduce the jail sentence from 90 days to 60 days. While I understand that my client is disappointed that he received jail as part of his sentence, there are simply some things a lawyer cannot do. I cannot go back in time and delete all of his many convictions leading up to this one. I cannot make the ultimate decision of the sentence – that is left to the judge. I worked hard on this case and am proud of the fact that I was able to get the prosecutor and probation officer to agree with a no jail recommendation. I am also proud of the fact that I was able to convince the judge to allow my client to be with his family for Christmas and turn himself in later. But ultimately, as the judge said, it is the 20 criminal convictions that sent this client to jail – not his attorney.
Edward Jacob Sternisha's Lawyer Endorsements
"I do not give peer endorsements on AVVO often (even when I am asked). And I have never met or talked with Edward Sternisha. The reason I felt compelled this morning to write this endorsement is that I have been repeatedly impressed with the thought, intellect, and creativity that Mr. Sternisha puts into his answers on a variety of subjects. I have been reading these responses for months. They consistently reflect a detailed first-class legal mind, as well as enthusiasm and energy, caring and a willingness to help people. I have put Mr. Sternisha’s name in my drawer, and I look forward to the opportunity to refer to him."
"I proudly endorse this lawyer. Ed is extremely knowledgeable and passionate about his work. Whenever I have questions regarding DUI related matters, I contact Ed. He has the answers! In addition to being a great lawyer, he truly is a wonderful person."
"Want an attorney that will leave no rock unturned? Than you better call Ed. He will fight for you and look at every angle possible. Recently, he found an angle to fight for his client and was very successful and the case was dismissed. I trust Ed to get you the best result possible."
"I endorse this lawyer for their knowledge and dedication."
"Ed Sternisha is a very fine attorney with a reputation as someone who will fight tooth and nail for his clients. I happily endorse him."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse Ed Sternisha. Ed is a competent, caring attorney who obtains the best results for his clients."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse Edward. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
"I endorse this lawyer. A brilliant and highly respected attorney in the legal community."
"Ed is a passionate, caring, smart and aggressive lawyer. I admire the investigative skills Ed has developed throughout his life and the way he uses these skills to help his clients. Ed will do what is best for his clients. He is not afraid to go to trial. If a good settlement is what your case calls for, Ed will get you a good deal with the local prosecutors. Because of the reasons above, I endorse this lawyer."
"Mr. Sternisha is an excellent attorney. He gives sound advice and represents his clients well."
"I endorse this lawyer. He gives good, practical, sound legal advice."
"I endorse this lawyer. Edward is an up and coming Lawyer in Western Michigan. I would not hesitate to recommend him on any criminal matter."
"Mr. Sternisha is an extremely talented attorney who provides great advice. Even though I have been practicing for 24 years and I am a former judge and magistrate, I learn from him every day. I would recommend him to anyone in his area."
"Attorney Sternisha provides great advice and insight into the law for his clients. Grade "A" Attorney!"
"Attorney Edward J. Sternisha has shown a solid commitment to helping persons facing criminal charges and has provided sound legal advice within the Avvo community which speaks to his professionalism and dedication as a Criminal Lawyer. I highly endorse Attorney Edward J. Sternisha."
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Sternisha has repeatedly demonstrated that he is intelligent, articulate, and compassionate. Plus, he brings a wide breadth of personal experience and practical knowledge to the application of the law."
"Ed provides no-nonsense, straight forward and practical guidance to Avvo askers. The fact that he takes time out of his practice to answer questions of real people with real problems without thought of compensation is testament to his desire to help others. His answers display keen awareness of the processes and procedures that define our legal system. Were I in trouble in Michigan, I would not hesitate to contact Ed Sternisha. I endorse this attorney."
"I strongly recommend Mr. Sternisha. His knowledge of the law and his dedication to his clients makes him the perfect choice to defend your rights. A top-notch attorney."
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Experience
Honors
2025
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2024
Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers
2023
Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers
2022
Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers
2021
Rising Star, SuperLawyers
2020
Rising Star, SuperLawyers
2019
Rising Star, SuperLawyers
2018
Rising Star, SuperLawyers
2017
Rising Star, SuperLawyers
2016
Client's Choice - DUI, Avvo
2016
Top Contributor - DUI, Avvo
2016
Rising Star, SuperLawyers
2015
Top Contributor, Avvo
2014
Top Contributor - DUI, Avvo
2013
Client's Choice - Criminal Defense, Avvo
2012
Hillman Advocacy Program Certificate, US District Court -Western Dist.of Michigan
2009
Public Sector Law Clinic, Thomas M. Cooley Law School
Work Experience
2011 - Present
Principal, Law Office of Edward J. Sternisha, PLLC
2017 - 2023
Adjunct Professor, Thomas M. Cooley Law School
Associations
2016 - Present
Michigan Association of OWI AttorneysBoard Member
2015 - Present
National College of DUI DefenseGeneral Member
2014 - Present
Criminal Defense Attorneys of MichiganMember
2011 - Present
State Bar of MichiganMember
2011 - Present
Grand Rapids Bar AssociationMember
2011 - Present
Ionia-Montcalm Bar AssociationMember
2010 - Present
American Bar AssociationMember
Sample of Legal Cases
People v. M.C.
Operating While Visibly Impaired Dismissed
People v T.S., Jr.
Felony Case Dismissed!
People v E.K.
OWI Case Dismissed
People v O.B.
OWI Case Dismissed
J.H. v Secretary of State
Restricted License Granted
People v. A. J. (Fatal Crash Case)
NOT GUILTY!
People v V.H.
Drunk Driving Case Dismissed!
People v J.S.
Felony Reduced to Misdemeanor
People v F.J.O.
Drunk Driving and Implied Consent Refusal Dismissed!
People v J.D.
Drunk Driving Dismissed!
People v D.M.
Blood Test Results AND All Statements SUPPRESSED!
People v R.B.
Drunk Driving Dismissed!
People v T.D.
Drunk Driving Dismissed!
People v T.D.
Blood Test Results SUPPRESSED!
People v L.S.
Drunk Driving Dismissed!
People v C.J.
FELONY OWI CASE DISMISSED
People v. A.O.
Drunk Driving DISMISSED
People v. A.R.
Felony DUI Dismissed
People v J.W.
Not Guilty Jury Verdict
People v M.M.
Criminal Charges DISMISSED
People v C.D.
Drunk Driving CASE DISMISSED
People v. C.D.
Drunk Driving CASE DISMISSED
People v J.W.
Drunk Driving DISMISSED
People v. M.M.
Drunk Driving DISMISSED
People v. A.LB
Drunk Driving DISMISSED
People v. L.G.
DISMISSED
People v. H.B.
Drunk Driving DISMISSED
People v. M.S.
Drunk Driving DISMISSED
A.C. v. Secretary of State
Driver's License RESTORED
People v. J.W.
Misdemeanor instead of Felony
People v. A.C.
Drunk Driving DISMISSED
C.F. v. Secretary of State
Driver's License RESTORED
J.T. v. Secretary of State
Restricted License GRANTED
N.T. v Sec. of State
Restricted License GRANTED
People v. M.C.
Misdemeanor instead of Felony
People v. C.F.
Drunk Driving DISMISSED
People v. C.B.
Fines/Costs
People v. C.S.
Drunk Driving DISMISSED
People v. R.J.
Diversion
People v. A.H.
Reduced Charge
State v. A.B.
Dismissed
Sec. of State v. C.S.
No License Sanction
People v. A.B.
Fines/Costs
State v. S.W.
No License Sanction
People v. A.R.
CASE DISMISSED
People v. D.B-P
Super Drunk DISMISSED!
People v. C.C.
Reduced
People v. D.S
Case DISMISSED!
People v. N.A.
Diversion
People v. J.F.
Reduced Plea - No Jail
People v. K.B.
OWI DISMISSED for a Civil Infraction
City v. R.H.
Super Drunk DISMISSED
People v. K.H.
Reduced
GRPD v. K.B.
License REINSTATED
People v. M.M.
Reduced
People v. K.H.
Dismissed
People v. A.W.
Reduced charge
People v A.J.
Reduced
People v P.N.
Reduced
People v. J.N.
Fines/Costs
People v K.I.
Fines/Work Crew - No Jail
People v M.B.
Deferred Sentence
People v. G.B.
Reduced
D.B. v. T.P.
Dismissed
People v. R.L.
Reduced
People v. M. V.
J.S. v. State
Restricted License instead of Suspended License
People v. A.W.
Reduced/Dismissed
People v. Y.T.
Released from Custody
People v A.H.
Reduced
People v. J.S.
HYTA
People v. A.D.
HYTA
People v. M.E.
1 charge dismissed, other charge reduced.
People v. A.L.
Reduced Sentence
People v. D.H.
Reduced
People v G.V.
Reduced
People v. E.W.
Reduced
People v. R.V.
Civil Infraction
People v. F.D.
Dismissed
People v. S.G.
Dismissed
People v. C.B.
Reduced Charges
People v. J.C.
Reduced Charges
People v. W.W.
Dismissed
People v G.V.
Reduced Plea
People v. K.N.
Dismissed
People v. D.L.
NOT GUILTY
People v. J.B.
Dismissed
People v. D.L.
Dismissed
People v. J.B.
Not Guilty on most serious charge. Guilty on less serious charge.
A.M. vs R.B.
Dismissed
People v. S.M.
Nolle Prosequi (Dismissed)
People v. M.N
Not Guilty Jury Verdict
T.G. vs E.B.
Rescinded
People vs. M.M.
People vs C.S.
People vs T.N.
Nolle Prosequi (Dismissed)
People v D.S.
Dismissal
People vs. M.R.
Nolle Prosequi (Dismissal)
Education
2025
Michigan State Police
Attended Conference - Forensic Science & Criminal Justice
2025
MIAOWIA
Attended Conference - Chemical Evidence & DUI Defense
2025
MIAOWIA
Attended Conference - SFST Certification
2024
MIAOWIA
Attended Conference - Breathalyzer Breakthrough
2023
MIAOWIA
Attended Conference - DUI Intake to Trial
2023
MIAOWIA
Attended Conference - Intoxilyzer 9000
2022
MIAOWIA
Attended Fall Conference - THC Lab Reports
2019
MIAOWIA
Attended Conference - Cannabis & Cars
2018
MIAOWIA
Attended Conference (Trial Skills)
2018
MIAOWIA
Attended Conference
2017
Harvard University Law School
Certificate of Completion
2017
MIAOWIA
Attended Conference
2017
MIAOWIA
Attended Conference
2016
MIAOWIA
Attended Conference
2016
MIAOWIA
Attended Conference
2015
CDAM
Certificate of Completion
2015
National College for DUI Defense
Attended Course
2010
Thomas M. Cooley Law School
JD - Juris Doctor
2005
American Red Cross
Certification
2004
University of Phoenix
BS - Bachelor of Science Degree
1994
American Institute for Paralegal Studies
Certificate
1992
Financial Services Institute
Certificate
1990
Macomb Community College
Certificate
1990
EMS Providers Institute
Certificate
1990
Grand Rapids Community College
Associates Degree
Speaking Engagements
2025
On Demand Seminar - Podcast
Drunk Driving Update - 2025
2024
Evidential Breath Test Update: Intoxilyzer 9000
Michigan's New Breathalyzer
2019
News Interview
Court of Appeals OWI - Speed Limit Win
2019
News Interview
Roadside Drug Test Errors
2017
The Lawyers Show
Roadside Saliva Drug Testing
2016
News Interview
Illegal Speed Limits - 3
2016
News Interview
Ambien Sleep Driving Part 2
2016
News Interview
Ambien Sleep Driving Part 1
2016
News Interview
OWI Charges Dismissed Affirmed
2016
News Interview
Officer-Involved Fatal Shooting
2016
News Interview
Police Body Cameras
2016
News Interview
Illegal Speed Limits - 2
2016
News Interview
Illegal Speed Limits - 1
2016
News Interview
Reserve Police Officers
2016
Michigan Association of OWI Attorneys - DUI 123
Investigating Your OWI Cases
2015
Tribute to Officer & Veteran
Deputy Paul Barquist
2014
The Lawyers Show
Drunk/Drugged Driving
2014
Pot Pie Ashtrays book signing and discussion
Breaking the Cycle of Child Abuse
2014
News Interview
Police Use of Dashcams
2014
Lecture to Criminal Justice students
The U.S. Constitution
2014
Constitution Day
The U.S. Consitution to GRPS 5th Graders
2014
Community Interview
Criminal Defense & More
2013
Lowell Area Schools
March Is Reading Month
2013
House Oversight Committee
Oppose 911 FOIA Bill
2013
Grand Rapids Public Schools
March Is Reading Month
2013
Elementary School Presentation
Abraham Lincoln
2013
Consitution Day
The U.S. Consitution to GRPS 5th Graders
2012
G.R. Public Schools Con-Law Day
The U.S.Constitution
Publications
2025
Institute of Continuing Legal Education (Michigan)
Michigan Drunk Driving Law and Practice - SFST's - Chapter 6
2014
Softcover Print Book
Pot Pie Ashtrays: Breaking the Cycle of Child Abuse
2014
Fox17 News
News Interview
2011
Softcover Print Book
Security Officer Training Manual: News Headlines & Review
2010
Softcover Print Book
Start Your Own Business: A Simple Pocket Guide
2010
Softcover Print Book
Understanding Legislative Term Limits
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Top Contributor
Edward earned significant contribution points in 2017.
Legal Answers
Q&A
Can I argue for a dismal for a dui arrest that happened in November of 2021, just now being arraigned? If so, please explain
21 Jul 2025
Q&A
What if?
22 Apr 2025
Q&A
Would Michigan purse me for a felony DUI out of state?
04 Mar 2025