Gerald R. Lykins

Gerald R. Lykins

also known as Jerry Lykins

4.9
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 31 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Grand Rapids, MI
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI

234 Division Ave., N, Suite 400, Grand Rapids, MI

About Gerald

Biography

Practice Areas

2

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 60%

60% of my caseload involves Felony and Misdemeanor State and Federal cases. I have handled over 800 felony cases and 2500 misdemeanors. I have handled serious type crimes such as Murder, CSC, Assault, Larcenies, All Drugs cases and DVs,

32 years | 3,300 cases

60%
DUI and DWI 40%

40% of my cases are Drunk Driving cases. I have handled 1700 cases since 1998. My reputation and skill level is the highest in West Michigan. I handle OWI 1st, 2nd, and 3rd and Death cases

32 years | 1,700 cases

40%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Retainer

Always


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in Michigan for 28 years

State: Michigan

Acquired: 1997

Active in Good Standing

No misconduct found

Licensed in Kentucky for 30 years

State: Kentucky

Acquired: 1995

Former Member

No misconduct found

Licensed in Ohio for 31 years

State: Ohio

Acquired: 1994

Inactive

No misconduct found

Location

Law Offices of Gerald R. Lykins

234 Division Ave., N, Suite 400, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503

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Gerald R. Lykins's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.9 /5.0

107 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 38 reviews | DUI & DWI

Posted by anonymous | March 08, 2024 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Fantastic representation

Choosing a DUI lawyer is a critical decision, especially when your freedom and future are at stake. After a recommendation, I turned to Lykins Law for legal representation, and I couldn't be more grateful for their services. From the initial consultation to the final resolution of my case, the profe...ssionalism and expertise of Jerry was truly exceptional. His understanding of the laws and his commitment to providing personalized attention set him apart from the rest. Jerry provided unwavering dedication to achieving the best possible outcome for me. He conducted a thorough investigation, looked over every detail of my case, and utilized his extensive knowledge to craft a strategic defense strategy. His preparation and persuasive argumentation led to a favorable resolution, exceeding my expectations. Beyond his legal expertise, Jerry exhibited genuine compassion and empathy towards my situation. He understood the stress and anxiety that accompanies a DUI charge and provided unwavering support and guidance every step of the way. I cannot recommend Jerry Lykins and Lykins Law enough to anyone in need of DUI representation. His unparalleled expertise, dedication, and compassion makes him the gold standard in the field.

Posted by Fortunate Father | November 19, 2020 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Very personalized and caring service coming from a father of a child in trouble

Jerry Lykins represented my 20 year daughter in a very tumultuous time in her young adult life with first offense OUI arrest along with drug possession. We were in desperate for legal advice and direction and Jerry came with high regards from a friend and colleague of mine. I knew we were in a good ...counsel when Jerry was calling me back on the following Sunday night and worked immediately to address our concerns and case file! He took control of the situation and gave us much needed comfort and immediate guidance. Jerry brought a very personalized and warm caring approach to our daughter, not only to her legal representation but more importantly, to counseling her on her future after sentencing as to growing into a healthier adult life. He encouraged her into successful drug and alcohol treatment program and has been instrumental into her becoming healthy again and looking forward to returning again to college after completion of her probation. Through his credibility and reputation in the local legal system, Jerry was instrumental in to having our daughter's drug possession charges dismissed along with reducing her OUI offense to OWI (impaired) conviction which was remarkable in our eyes (especially given her .15 BAC at the time of her arrest). We are truly blessed and fortunate to have received the legal counsel representation of attorney Jerry Lykins and will ever be grateful to him!

Posted by anonymous | March 27, 2020 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Highly Recommended

I hired Jerry Lykins for an OWI-1 offense occurring in December 2019. I was very pleased with Jerry’s work. Under the circumstances, it could have easily resulted in a more severe sentence. Here’s what I especially liked about working with Jerry: Jerry charged a flat fee that was reasonable. ...He puts much emphasis on, and encourages, good communication. For attorneys who charge by the hour, a client is always hesitant to ask any questions about their case. Even the simplest of questions taking only a few minutes to answer are often billed at 15 minutes. I communicated frequently with Jerry via text messages, email and phone calls. Jerry goes back a long way with area judges, city attorneys and prosecutors. He’s well-respected in the legal community. Undoubtedly these personal relationships are helpful in getting the best outcome for his clients. Jerry knows if, and when, one should plead to a lesser offense. This is based not only on his knowledge of the law, which is extensive, but also knowing court personnel especially well and how they work. I was able to contact Jerry whether it was in the evening or on weekends. He promptly responded to all text messages, emails and phone calls. This obviously was a very trying time emotionally. Jerry was a good confidant and, while not diminishing the seriousness of the charge, helped put it in the proper “total-life” perspective. Jerry is personable, easy to talk to, empathetic and did an excellent job of managing expectations. I highly recommend Jerry Lykins.

Posted by anonymous | November 11, 2019 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Great attorney!

Jerry was thorough and helpful through my legal process and litigation for a High BAC OWI. I first consulted with Jerry after I was initially charged for the crime. I was able to check into a 30 day inpatient treatment center. While I was there, Jerry handled all of my legal obligations with the cour...t. When I was discharged from the treatment center, Jerry was helpful and proactive to assist me in my ongoing sobriety and recovery efforts. With the legal aspect, Jerry was fantastic in consulting with me and being able to keep me out of jail. Jerry not only did a great job in the legal aspect but was a great support in my recovery. I would recommend Jerry to anyone needing legal help with a drinking-related offense.

Posted by Theodore | October 06, 2019 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

he's your guy!

Hiring Mr. Lykins for my impaired driving charge was the best choice I made for my case. With his knowledge and honesty we were able to have it reduced to careless driving and a civil point infraction which I believe is a fair sentencing. From beginning to end he was upfront and transparent about his... intentions which made me feel comfortable enough to do the same. I am so happy with the outcome and would recommend his services to anyone who is looking for help with a DUI-natured case!

See All Client Reviews

Gerald R. Lykins's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Gerald
Ashley Sue VanDyk headshot
Ashley VanDyk

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I can say is wow. It is very impressive to see his legal mind at work and how he approaches an issue. He is a creative problem solver and one of the best I've seen for criminal defense work. I refer all my clients on criminal matters to him and he has always done a wonderful job taking good care of them and giving them the best possible outcome for their situation."

Britt Cobb headshot
Britt Cobb

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Frederick E. Mackraz headshot
Frederick Mackraz

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jerry is my go to guy for crimminal law referrals. I beleive him to be one of the best in the business."

James R. Oppenhuizen headshot
James Oppenhuizen

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 22

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have referred clients to Gerry in the past, and each has reported that he did an outstanding job; therefore, I endorse this lawyer."

Michelle Marie Mclean headshot
Michelle Mclean

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Gerald for a few years now and am impressed with his ability. He is a zealous advocate for his clients and works tirelessly to get them good results. He is respected in the legal community and is known for being highly knowledgeable and ethical."

Crystal L. Morgan headshot
Crystal Morgan

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Jerry Lykins. He is a skilled and well-respected attorney, and a strong advocate for his clients."

Sean Patrick Cox headshot
Sean Cox

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Jerry has a great knowledge of the law and he is a tremendous trial attorney."

Phillip Benjamin Slot headshot
Phillip Slot

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Jerry is a hard working and dedicated attorney. I would recommend him to anyone seeking criminal defense representation."

Charles E. Chamberlain Jr. headshot
Charles Chamberlain

DUI and DWI lawyer | May 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer wholeheartedly. He knows his stuff, and his clients are well-represented."

Peter Alan VanGelderen headshot
Peter VanGelderen

Criminal defense lawyer | May 07

Relationship: Co-worker

"I had the opportunity to work with Jerry on many cases and saw first-hand his knowledge, passion, and commitment to his cases. Jerry fights for his clients and maintains an honest and open relationship throughout the case. Jerry gets results and educates his clients at the same time."

Mark P. Hunting headshot
Mark Hunting

Criminal defense lawyer | May 07

Relationship: Co-worker

"Jerry and I began working together in January 2013. Prior to this, I have know Jerry because we both practiced in the criminal defense and OWI fields. Jerry is a tireless advocate for his clients. Jerry understands people and law. I am pleased to have Jerry as a legal partner in our new law firm, Kortes,Lykins, Hunting & Jansma, PLLC, the West Michigan Defense Team!"

Jeffrey T. Kortes headshot
Jeffrey Kortes

Criminal defense lawyer | May 07

Relationship: Co-worker

"I have seen firsthand Jerry's tireless devotion to his clients. Jerry is an aggressive, hard-working attorney that stands above the rest."

Steven R. Simkins headshot
Steven Simkins

Unknown lawyer | Jul 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Jerry is one of the brightest, most passionate and energetic attorneys I've ever had the pleasure to meet. His experience, knowledge of the law, and dedication to each and every client he represents are but a few of the many reasons for his success."

Jason L. Jansma headshot
Jason Jansma

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 22

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Jerry is one of the best criminal defense attorneys in West Michigan. He is a hard worker who gets results."

Hal G. Ostrow headshot
Hal Ostrow

Criminal defense lawyer | May 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I strongly endorse Jerry. He is a top-notch criminal defense attorney with an excellent reputation in the legal community. He is extremely accessible and works tirelessly for each of his clients."

View All Endorsements
Ashley Sue VanDyk headshot
Ashley VanDyk

Trusts lawyer

Esther Hilda Alis Acosta headshot
Esther Acosta

Estate planning lawyer

Mark John Magyar headshot
Mark Magyar

Litigation lawyer

Bradley Paul Koffel headshot
Bradley Koffel

DUI and DWI lawyer

Judith A. Baxter headshot
Judith Baxter

Criminal defense lawyer

Michelle Marie Mclean headshot
Michelle Mclean

Child custody lawyer

Crystal L. Morgan headshot
Crystal Morgan

State, local, and municipal law lawyer

Britt Cobb headshot
Britt Cobb

Criminal defense lawyer

Robert F. Mirque Jr. headshot
Robert Mirque

Immigration lawyer

Sean Patrick Cox headshot
Sean Cox

Elder law lawyer

Phillip Benjamin Slot headshot
Phillip Slot

Business lawyer

Charles E. Chamberlain Jr. headshot
Charles Chamberlain

Criminal defense lawyer

Richard E. Hillary II headshot
Richard Hillary

Litigation lawyer

Frederick E. Mackraz headshot
Frederick Mackraz

Litigation lawyer

James R. Oppenhuizen headshot
James Oppenhuizen

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Andrea D. Crumback headshot
Andrea Crumback

Litigation lawyer

Peter Alan VanGelderen headshot
Peter VanGelderen

Criminal defense lawyer

Jeffrey T. Kortes headshot
Jeffrey Kortes

Criminal defense lawyer

Mark P. Hunting headshot
Mark Hunting

Criminal defense lawyer

Jason L. Jansma headshot
Jason Jansma

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2019

Best Non-White Collar Criminal Defense Attorney, Grand Rapids Magazine

2014

BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2014

Client Rating, Martindale-Hubbell

2007

BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

1995

2 week course, Career Prosecutor's Course

Work Experience

2018 - Present

President - Attorney, Lykins Law, PLC

2013 - 2018

Vice President, West Michigan Defense Team

2006 - 2012

Attorney, Lykins Law

2000 - 2006

Partner, Lykins and LaGrand PC

1997 - 1998

Assistant Prosecutor, Former Assistant Kent County Prosecuto

1995 - 1997

Assistant CA, Former Jefferson County Commonwealth Attorney

1992 - 1993

Assistant Intern City Attorney, Whitehall City Attorney's Office

1984 - 1986

Bat Boy, Cincinnati Reds

Associations

2017 - Present

Team Member for 62B District Court Regional Sobriety Court

Defense Attorney Team Member

2016 - Present

Grand Rapids Bar Association

Criminal Law Section Chairperson

1997 - Present

Grand Rapids Bar Association

Member

1997 - Present

Michigan Bar Association

Member

1997 - Present

Justice Foundation Life Time Member

Sustaining Member

2000 - 2008

Camp Henry Board of Directors

Associate Board Member

1999 - 2004

Big Brothers and Big Sisters of West Michigan

Former Advisory Board Member

1995 - 1997

Kentucky Bar Associaton

Member

1995 - 1997

Louisville Bar Foundation

Member

1994 - 1995

Ohio State Bar Association

Member

1994 - 2010

American Bar Association

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

State v. Maxon

Charges Reduced from Felony to Misdemeanors

City of GR v. Client

Civil Infractions

State v. Samuels

Dismissed!

OWI Case Reduced to Careless Driving

OWI Case Reduced to Careless

City of Grand Rapids v. Client

Reduced Plea from Reckless to Careless Driving

People v. Client

OWI Child Endangerment Reduced to Impaired

City of Wyoming v. Client

Reduced Plea OWI To Careless Driving

People v.

Not Guilty Jury Verdict

People v. Chad S

Charges Dismissed

People v. Michael T

Not Guilty Jury Trial Verdict

People v.

Not Guilty Jury Verdict

See More Legal Cases

Education

1995

Career Prosecutor's School

Advance Trial Prosecution

1994

Capital Law School

Juris Doctorate

1992

Freien University, Berlin

Summer Studies in International Law

1990

Miami University of Ohio

Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2018

Constitution Day

Constitution

2017

Constitution Day

Constitution

2012

Legal Review

Criminal Law Review

2011

Legal Review

Criminal Law Review

2010

Legal Review

Criminal Law Review

2009

Legal Review

Criminal Law Review

Publications

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

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