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Michael R. Bartish

DUI and DWI Attorney at Grand Rapids, MI

4.9   117 reviews

also known as Springstead Bartish Borgula & Lynch, PLLC, SBBL Law

Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • State Years
    Michigan - MI 20 years
    Ohio - OH 24 years
  • Licensed for 20 years
    State MI
    Acquired 2003
    Status
    Active in Good Standing No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 24 years
    State OH
    Acquired 1998
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Michael

Learn Michael’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas
  1. DUI and DWI
    34%
    Former Active Duty Army JAG | Super Lawyer | Avvo 10.0 | Award-winning team of former feds*: *US Attorney *Two FBI Special Agents *Two JAG Attorneys *Four Federal Prosecutors < NOW ON YOUR SIDE >

    24 years, 500 cases

  2. Federal crime
    33%
    Former Active Duty Army JAG | Super Lawyer | Avvo 10.0 | Award-winning team of former feds*: *US Attorney *Two FBI Special Agents *Two JAG Attorneys *Four Federal Prosecutors < NOW ON YOUR SIDE >

    495 cases

  3. Sex crime
    33%
    Former Active Duty Army JAG | Super Lawyer | Avvo 10.0 | Award-winning team of former feds*: *US Attorney *Two FBI Special Agents *Two JAG Attorneys *Four Federal Prosecutors < NOW ON YOUR SIDE >

    24 years, 500 cases

<READ OUR REVIEWS> FORMER ACTIVE DUTY ARMY JAG | SUPER LAWYER | AVVO 10.0 | AWARD-WINNING TEAM OF FORMER FEDS*: *US ATTORNEY *TWO FBI SPECIAL AGENTS *TWO JAG ATTORNEYS *FOUR FEDERAL PROSECUTORS < NOW ON YOUR SIDE >. WE TAKE CASES TO TRIAL AND WIN.

A Life Devoted to Justice, Honor, and Service

Beginning with his service in the United States Army Judge Advocate General Corps, where he defended those who defend America, Mike Bartish has always been a force to be reckoned with. A criminal defense attorney whose compassion for his clients is as fierce as his courtroom skills, Mike has been an unwavering advocate for justice and the accused for nearly two decades. His story is not just about legal triumphs but a dedication to service that transcends professional boundaries.

Early Life and Education

Mike Bartish's journey in the realm of law began at the University of Notre Dame, where he attended on a U.S. Army R.O.T.C. scholarship. Yet it was at the University of Cincinnati College of Law where he honed his legal skills, setting the stage for a remarkable career that would extend far beyond the confines of the courtroom.

A Lawyer's Mind, a Soldier's Soul: The Army Years

After graduating from law school, Mike joined the United States Army Judge Advocate General Corps, where he took his first steps in criminal law. Stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, and serving in the First Cavalry Division and the Trial Defense Services, Mike navigated the intricacies of over 100 cases and 15 jury trials, including high-profile murder and attempted murder cases. His four-year tenure in active duty honed not just his legal skills but also instilled an unbreakable sense of duty, honor, and service.

A New Chapter: The Birth of SBBL Law, PLLC

Leaving active duty after four years, Mike moved to Grand Rapids and worked for two renowned law firms before joining forces with Gary Springstead to create Springstead & Bartish Law, PLLC in 2011. What began as a modest, three-person operation quickly established itself by turning seemingly indefensible cases into trial successes. As the firm’s reputation grew, so did the size of the firm until it evolved into SBBL Law, PLLC, - West Michigan’s premier criminal defense firm.

A Lawyer With a Heart

Mike has a reputation for taking his cases personally. Some might see this as a weakness; for him, it's an unmatched strength. Specializing in defending clients charged with some of the most serious criminal offenses imaginable, Mike's numerous acquittals in both state and federal courts speak volumes about his commitment to his clients—whom he defends as passionately as if they were family. Mike also understands, however, that sometimes clients need more than just a defense in the courtroom. Mike has a unique ability to fashion resolutions for his clients in lieu of trial that address the client’s circumstances and treat the underlying cause of uncharacteristic actions. Mike’s reputation for honesty, honor, and ethical behavior has allowed him to cultivate trustworthy relationships with prosecuting attorneys and courts throughout the state to benefit his clients.

Mike’s advocacy is not limited to trials. Mike has also established himself as a formidable advocate for his clients in the appellate courts. With extensive experience in the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals and Michigan appellate courts, his record includes numerous victories and precedent-setting published decisions.

A Lasting Legacy

In addition to his civilian practice, Mike dedicated his life to the United States Army. Mike served on active duty in the Army Reserves and the Michigan National Guard for 26 years, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel in May 2023. He spent most of his career as a trial defense attorney and defense appellate counsel defending those defending America.

Beyond Legal Briefs and Courtrooms

His service didn't stop at the courtroom or the military. It extends to shaping future legal minds as a West Catholic High School Mock Trial Team volunteer coach. What spare time Mike does have, he spends with his wife Anne (an accomplished attorney in her own right) and his four children. On weekends, Mike can usually be found on the sideline of an athletic field (often multiple fields), cheering on his children or immersed in a spirited yard or board game with his family.

Whether in the military, the classroom, or the courtroom, Mike Bartish lives a life committed to principles of justice, honor, and compassion.  For those looking for a criminal defense attorney who doesn't just work to win but fights for you as he would for his own family, Mike Bartish is not just a choice; he's the only choice.

Awards

Client's Choice 2022,2019,2018,2017,2016,2015,2014,2013,2012,2011
Client's Choice
2022 2019 2018 + 7 ...

Photos and videos

Contact Michael

Springstead & Bartish Law, PLLC
Springstead & Bartish Law, PLLC
28 W. Main Street
Fremont, MI, 49412
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Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  117 customer reviews
Client's Choice 2022
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 anonymous | June 17, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mike Bartish is a Lifesaver
I was falsely accused of criminal sexual conduct in the first degree (forcible rape) by the girlfriend of a former friend. The allegations were not only entirely false but absurd. I cooperated with the police and answered their questions because I knew the allegations were false and assumed the police would see through the lies and lack of evidence. I was wrong. Instead I was charged with one of the most heinous crimes possible. I was looking at many years in prison and lifetime registration on the sex offender list. I knew I had to hire the best criminal defense attorney I could find. One who would fight for me and who was not afraid of the judge or the prosecutor. After doing significant research on attorneys and reading countless reviews, I found Mike Bartish. The reviews are accurate. Mike is not only an incredible attorney, but he legitimately cares for his clients. He was easy to reach on the phone even after normal business hours and on weekends. His assistant, Chasity, is equally amazing. She was always there to lend an ear to calm my nerves as the court date approached. Mike was amazing in trial. His attention to detail was obvious. He was able to demonstrate the falseness of the allegations to the jury and revealed the accuser for the liar that she is. He also exposed the “investigation” for the farce that is was. After three days of trial, the jury deliberated for less than one hour before finding me not guilty and ending this nightmare. Mike was not cheap, but when your life is on the line, he and his firm were worth every penny. Trust me, he is absolutely the attorney you need when facing serious charges.
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Posted by anonymous | March 28, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Michael Bartish-Most highly recommended
Please read our brief story and how Michael Bartish immensely helped us. This summer we were overly frustrated in what we felt was evolving into an impossible case. Our son was charged as an adult with 2 counts of CSC first degree more than 1 year earlier-even though he and the alleged victim were both juveniles. After not being overly comfortable with our first attorney, we were searching for another defense attorney . With a recommendation from someone, we met with Michael in July 2019 and shared our story of how our son was interrogated in Sept 2018 by 2 uniformed Sheriff's deputies in school for an alleged crime that happened in July 2017 and not on school grounds. There was no one to advocate for our son and after denying any involvement multiple times, he was coerced into a false confession after some very "leading questions" by the officers. The content of these questions would prove to be very important just before trial. When our son told us what had happened, we talked with the school officials who let this happen and the 2 deputies who did the "interview"(their words). We were infuriated when we were told this interrogation was neither timed nor recorded in any way-despite the seriousness of the allegation. In spite of there being at least 10 other students and 3 adults in the house where the alleged incident happened over 1 year earlier, they questioned ONLY two people- the alleged victim and our son. They denied our request to question others at the gathering, did NO investigative work, wrote a report implicating our son, closed the case and sent the report to the PA-who filed the charges. Our son had been arraigned and we had lost a motion hearing with our first attorney to have his confession not allowed in trial-if it would even make it to trial. It was at this point that we contacted and met with Mike. After the meeting, my wife, son and I detected a sense of urgency and aggressiveness that we were looking for. Shortly after, we retained Mike's services in this case. In spite of the above circumstances and ZERO evidence from the alleged victim, Mike was honest with us and told us that this would be an uphill fight but a fight he would engage in with us. I wish I could say this case went no where but it kept progressing and just a couple weeks before trial, some key facts surfaced that greatly debunked the accusations-including the content of the leading questions by the officers. Mike let us know as soon as he found out and he himself made contact with many of the people at the gathering-something we tried to do but were unsuccesful. They became key witnesses in the case and that would have never have happened had it not been for Mike's tireless efforts on our behalf. The 3 day trial culminated with a not-guilty verdict from the 12 jurors. Being involved in any kind of legal issue was new and foreign to us but we felt more at ease with Mike leading the way. He was very informative and made himself very available to us throughout this whole ordeal, even meeting at some crazy hours to accommodate our schedules. We know that ultimately God gets the credit for this victory, but we also know that God works through people and circumstances and feel we would not have come away where we did without Mike and his knowledge, dedication, aggressiveness and professionalism. Unfortunately, we learned that there are some major flaws in our justice system that need to be remedied. If you find yourself on the(factually) wrong end of the system, we highly recommend you contact Michael Bartish.
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Posted by Lyn | August 23, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Caring and Accessible
Prompt communication, knowledgeable and understanding. Defended and supported our son as he would have treated his own child. Highly recommended.
Response from Michael Bartish August 29, 2023
Thank you Lyn. I am so happy we were able to help. Mike
Posted by anonymous | June 30, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mike gave me back my son
My teenage son made a series of poor decisions that could have seriously altered his life. He chose marijuana over going to high school & was headed down a path that is every parent’s worst fear. My son had the opportunity to change his path but did not cooperate with law enforcement and was facing a possible prison sentence. I contacted Mike & shared the situation. Mike asked to see me & my son as soon as he was released from jail. Mike did not sugar coat the situation or the possible outcome for my son but rather was brutally honest about the changes my son needed to make. Over the next 45-days, with Mike’s help & guidance, my son earned his GED & obtained full time employment. Mike was able to work with the judge & Prosecutor and shared my wishes as a parent to send my son to rehab out of state. Mike was successful in getting the most damaging charges dropped & my son went to rehab for 90-days & successfully served 3-years of probation. Mike saw the potential in my son & believed in him. He was able to convey this belief to the courts & I ultimately got my happy, kind & loving son back. Mike saved my family & I am forever grateful.
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Posted by Benjamin | March 22, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Knowlegeable and straight forward
Mike and his colleagues were awesome to work with. They were really responsive to all my questions and helped ease my nerves through out the process. There were several points along the way I had questions and concerns. Mike was easy to reach via text or call and he took the time to explain the situation and process. I liked how honest and straight forward he was. He didn't beat around the bush. Mike has great relationships with the prosecuting attorneys and was able to give me realistic expectations of what to expect. Very Thankful for the level of expertise this firm has. If I ever need a defense attorney again they will be my first call.
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Posted by anonymous | March 13, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Reliable and very helpful
I hired this attorney to deal with a CSC case. Mr. Bartish was quick and thorough on what to expect and the process I would be going through. If I had any questions, he was always swift with responding, providing clarity to my situation. He regularly updated me on what was occurring and am very grateful for his assistance throughout the legal process. Definitely recommend hiring him.
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Posted by Christina | November 5, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing
My son was looking at serious charges he was able to make sure no charges were even brought! He is amazing and would recommend to anyone looking at criminal charges. Very on top of things. You want the best outcome you hire the best!
Posted by Samantha | September 21, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer
Michael Bartish , went above & beyond for me , my case had a 2-5 year sentence he was able to drop one charge which would have sent me to prison ! I got less jail time then expected, I wasn’t easy to deal with because this was a very stressful time in my life , but he had patience with me , I would definitely recommend retaining Michael Bartish .
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Posted by anonymous | July 18, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
First in last out.
I would highly recommend this firm! Mike R.Bartish did an outstanding job in the court room and he will fight for you all the way throug. I wouldn’t bargain for a cheaper lawyer when it comes to your life get it done right with Mike and his team. they are constantly in and out of the courtrooms they know it in and out.
Posted by anonymous | May 24, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional, Capable, and Responsive
I was involved in a misdemeanor domestic abuse charge. Having never interacted with law enforcement or the criminal justice system before I had many questions and concerns. Mike and his entire team were responsive, well-informed, and caring throughout the entire process. Mike felt the charges were groundless and encouraged my wife and I to take the case to trial. When we explained that we would instead prefer to use the state of Michigan deferral program he understood and moved ahead. With Mike's expert help the case was handled efficiently and the deferral was granted. He and all of the folks we interacted with at this firm were wonderful. While we would never want to undergo the ordeal again, we would have no hesitation whatsoever in picking Mike as our attorney.
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Posted by anonymous | March 5, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney, Great Firm
Extremely happy with the services Mike Bartish and his team provided. Mike was responsive and always made me aware of the potential outcomes of the case. I was charged with a very serious crime and facing a potential prison sentence. Mike came up with a plan at the start and told me to be patient. Despite numerous conferences, the prosecutor seemed unwilling to budge. Mike told me not to lose hope. True to his word, Mike persisted, stayed true to the plan the came up with and the at the final conference, the prosecutor budged and offered a misdemeanor resolution with no jail. I know this would not have happened with Mike. He kept my family and I together.
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Posted by Mary | June 10, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mike Bartish
I researched extensively before making the decision to retain Mike Bartish. My daughter was charged with a felony. A police officer filed a report stating he/she witnessed the incident. All charges were false. Mike was able to have all charges dismissed without prejudice. Mike did not leave a stone un-turned. He is intelligent, thorough, quick thinking on his feet and will not give in or give up on your case! If you want the best possible outcome for your case....Hire Mike.
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Posted by MoeLisa | March 27, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
He saved our son.
Our teenage son was accused of a despicable crime based on a false allegation by another girl. We were completely blindsided and lost by the allegations. Fortunately, an attorney friend referred us to Mike Bartish. He took our phone call after business hours and set up a meeting with us that night. He met with our son and instantly calmed our son and us. At the end of the initial consult, I looked Mike in the eye and made him promise me that he would save our son. He did. Mike immediately began investigating the case. He provided the prosecutor with proof of the that the girls story was a lie. Despite this, the prosecutor tried to get us to take a plea to a much less serious offense. That was not acceptable to us as the allegations were false and we would not allow our son to be bullied into admitting something he did not do. Mike never wavered. He told the prosecutor to prepare for trial and filed a number of motions that severely damaged the prosecutor's case. The prosecutor eventually did the right thing and dismissed the charges. But this never would have happened without Mike. Mike continued to check up on our son even after the case was over to see how he was doing. Mike took this case personally and it showed. We are forever grateful. How do you give enough stars.
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Posted by Ryan | February 27, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
5Star Lawyer
Mike Bartish is an astounding attorney. He didn't just help me file paperwork to fight the CSC charges, he walked me through the process every step of the way. Although I was falsely accused, I have too much to risk in a public trial so Mike helped me weigh the options. I ended up taking a plea deal which best fit my case even when he expressed immense confidence in his preparation for the trial. Since the first minute of consultation, Mike completely understood my situation and believed in my innocence. There wasn't a single day that I felt like I should be worried about my legal representation. Some nights, I had big questions that were weighing down my mind as last as 10pm. Whenever I called, he answered. I felt as though I was his only client with the amount of attention I was given. It was incredible that even though the plea was a decent settlement, some of the last words said to me were something like, 'whichever option you choose, know that I will still gladly take this to trial'. The plea deals offered earlier involved prison and sex offender registration. I'm glad Mike was there to tell me that I shouldn't give into the prosecutor's supposed final offers. He made it clear to the prosecutor that their offers were ridiculous and that he was more than ready to take this case to trial if that's all they were going to offer. Aside from the direct contact with the prosecutor (which I saw one time, thanks to Mike), he filed several motions to chip away at the prosecutor's assualt case. Every court date, I would start the day nervously but would walk away from the courthouse more calm than the previous day. Mike Bartish handled my case very well. I'm confident that he can handle any other case just the same.
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Posted by Timothy | November 23, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent
Excellent lawyer, hard working, very prepared, dedicated and willing to work, Mike goes the extra mile and listens as well as communicates with his client, very very pleased with his work, loyalty and kindness. He is also very honest, if he can help he will tell you, not just tell you what you want to hear, I highly recommend anyone to talk to him if you have a problem, I had a criminal case facing 10 years plus, I am satisfied with his work
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Posted by anonymous | November 5, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer in Michigan
Thank goodness I found Michael Bartish. As a respectful, quiet, and law-abiding citizen, I was in the scariest situation of my life after being a caretaker in grieving times. Michael Bartish and his team of expert lawyers were my saving grace. He defended my freedom and my human rights. He proved that I was innocent of much that I was accused of and helped my family. He is most likely one of the smartest and most experienced lawyers in Michigan. His clients love him, too. Thank you for defending me!
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Posted by anonymous | December 27, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Early Release Federal Probation
If you have any doubts read on.... Micheal Bartish and his team are awesome! I use them to get an early release from federal probation. It was amazing the dedication they had to get the job done correctly. I had an unbelievably great job offer. It was contingent on my release from probation. Everyone other law firm told me that it wasn’t going to happen. I was told it would take way past the deadline for me to accept the job offer. Mike filed the paperwork and it was denied due to misinformation.. It knocked the wind out of me but that’s when I experienced first hand what this law firm was all about. Mike and his team worked hard to show the prosecutor his error and get us back before the judge. By the end of the week the Judge signed my release and I have a new dream job. Thanks so much from the bottom of my heart. Happy Holidays Mike, Chastity and team.
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Posted by Thomas | October 12, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Michael R. Bartish, 5-Star Attorney
Michael Bartish is a gold star Attorney and Counselor. He thoroughly understands the law and takes the time to review the entire legal process and expectations with his clients before taking a case. Michael was kind, compassionate and caring as our attorney and wanted not only the best legal outcome, but the best outcome for us personally. He counseled us about the legal process and what he would recommend in our best interest. He was always responsive and available as we had several conversations before and after the standard business day. I would highly recommend him for anyone in need of a first class attorney as I would certain retain his services again in a heartbeat.
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Posted by Brad | May 17, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Lawyer for OWI third
I hired Michael Bartish as my lawyer for an OWI third offense charge. He was very knowledgeable in all aspects of the law and especially with my case. He knew the ins and outs of the separate courts within the area and how the process would move forward. At any point I could reach out and Michael would respond in an appropriate manor with anything I needed. Michael and his Law-firm successfully got me through my process with the minimum charges for my offense. Also successfully got me into a program that could help reduce my charge to a lower offense moving forward. I would 100% endorse and work with Michael Bartish in the future.
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Posted by Ann | April 25, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very highly recommended Attorney
Attorney Michael Bartish was beyond exceptional for this case. Being a very serious charge of Criminal Sexual Conduct in the First Degree, we needed someone who could gather all of the factual information necessary to prove his client was not guilty. Mr. Bartish also came into the case part way through following another attorney so he had to gather information after the fact. He was very thorough and organized throughout the rest of the investigation, and it was very noticeable he had his full, undivided attention into the case. His demeanor was very professional, and he was honest. His handling of trial proceedings with witnesses and their questioning was well organized. I was very impressed by Mr. Bartish's closing statement as he was very detailed using factual information and the credibility and integrity of his client and gatherings were clear. I cannot thank Attorney Bartish enough for what he did for his client, and our family. This charge is not something that can be easily acquitted. He brought justice.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 120 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Springstead Bartish Borgula & Lynch, PLLC
  • 2011 - Present
  • Team Chief - Las Vegas
  • United States Army 117th LOD
  • 2019 - 2023
  • Expert Appellate Counsel
  • United States Army Defense Appellate Divsion
  • 2016 - 2019
  • Staff Judge Advocate
  • 46th Military Police Command - Michigan National Guard
  • 2012 - 2019
  • Senior Defense Counsel - Army Reserves
  • United States Army & Army Reserve
  • 2007 - 2013
  • Associate
  • Willey & Chamberlain
  • 2005 - 2011
  • Associate
  • Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge
  • 2003 - 2005
  • Judge Advocate
  • U.S. Judge States Army Judge Advocate General's Corps
  • 1999 - 2002
View all work experience

Education

  • Judge Advocate General's School, U.S. Army
  • Officer Advance Course
  • 2007
  • Judge Advocate General's School, U.S. Army
  • Officer Basic Course
  • 1999
  • University of Cincinnati College of Law
  • J.D.
  • 1998
  • University of Notre Dame
  • B.S.
  • 1995
View all education

Legal Cases

  • People v. CV
  • Not Guilty
  • People v. J.P.
  • Not Guilty
  • People v. R.M
  • Not Guilty
View all legal cases

Associations

  • National College of DUI Defense
  • Member
  • 2012 - Present
  • State Bar of Michigan, Litigation Section
  • Council Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2005 - Present
  • Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan
  • Constitutional Warrior
  • 2005 - Present
  • Criminal Justice Act Panel - Western District of Michigan
  • Panel Member
  • 2005 - Present
  • State Bar Criminal Law Section
  • Member
  • 2004 - Present
  • Federal Bar Association (Western District of Michigan chapter)
  • Member
  • 2004 - Present
  • State Appellate Defenders Office Forum
  • Member
  • 2003 - Present
  • Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan
  • Board Member
  • 2012 - 2014
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2021
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2020
  • Top Lawyer - Criminal Defense
  • Grand Rapids Magazine
  • 2020
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2019
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2018
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2017
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2016
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2015
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2014
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2013
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2012
  • Top 40 Under 40
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • 2011
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2011
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2009
View all awards

Publications

  • @Law magazine (NALS)
  • "You Can't Handle the Truth!; Dispelling the Myths About the Military Justice System"
  • 2014
  • CDAM Newsletter
  • Spotlight on Attorney - Michael R. Bartish
  • 2007
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan Winter Conference
  • Walking the Minefield: Preparing Your Client to Testify in CSC Trials
  • 2019
  • University of Notre Dame College of Law Practice Tracks Program
  • Military and Criminal Law as a Practice
  • 2011
  • U.S. Army Trial Defese Service Great Lakes Regional Conference
  • Defending UCMJ Sex Crimes
  • 2010

Attorney endorsements

Received (26)
Given (31)
Endorse Michael
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 17
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Mike Bartish is an excellent attorney. He is bright and works hard for results for every one of his clients. I have worked on cases in which Mike represented co-defendants and I was very impressed with his work. I refer cases to Mike with confidence that he will get results!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 08
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I needed an attorney for a client/friend of mine that had a family member who was accused of 'resisting and obstructing' police officers downstate where Attorney Bartish works. It was a difficult case to defend, and I needed somebody who was both competent and trustworthy. In the state of Michigan it doesn't take much for a prosecutor to win a case like this. In fact, our law holds that you could be found guilty of resisting or obstructing a police officer if you delay or disobey a police order, even if they give you a clearly unlawful command! Results matter, and in this case Attorney Bartish was able to win the jury trial in thundering fashion - the jury took all of about 10 minutes to vote NOT GUILTY. If you need an excellent lawyer, do yourself a favor and hire Attorney Bartish."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 31
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I litigated against Mike in several cases while I served as a Federal prosecutor. He was unfailingly prepared and a fearless advocate for his clients. I also observed him in trial, where he brought a cutting edge learned as an Army JAG to cross-examining prosecution witnesses. I endorse him as an attorney and am grateful to now call him a colleague."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. My experience with Mr. Bartish depicted his passion for the law and representing his clients. He strives to represent each of his clients to the best of his ability and to ensure that his clients understand the process as well as what is in their best interest."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 27
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Michael is a wonderful attorney who really works hard for his clients. I worked with Michael on a federal case where he represented a co-defendant and was impressed with his level of work."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 08
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. As a federal prosecutor for many years who has opposed Mike Bartish on variety of cases, I know Mike to be a zealous advocate who routinely obtains the best possible outcome for his clients. Mike has a reputation among government attorneys as a skilled trial attorney who also cares about his clients. I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone facing criminal charges."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 06
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Michael Bartish is a great lawyer who achieves great results for his clients. He is a zealous advocate for his clients. I highly recommend this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. If you are in need of a great criminal defense attorney in Western Michigan, you should definitely contact Mr. Bartish of Springstead and Bartish Law."
Unknown Attorney | Feb 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 27
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Michael. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 01
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I have had the opportunity to work with Mike on multiple cases and always came away impressed with his ability to find the best results for his clients. Whether it was navigating a complex trial or negotiating a favorable result through a plea, Mike passionately represented his clients. I am confident he can handle any criminal matter placed before him."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 17
Relationship: Other
"Mike Bartish recently provided legal defense services to a family member of mine. Mike was recommended to me by a partner in a major law firm in Grand Rapids, MI with whom I do business and we were very pleased with his knowledge and conduct every step of the way . Mike provided comprehensive, legally sound counsel to my young family member, taking the time to explain the options, potential outcomes, next steps, etc. He was extremely responsive, supportive, and caring during this very scary time for my family member - and he achieved a wonderful outcome. I would refer family, friends and business clients to Mike without hesitation based on his sound legal counsel, his responsiveness and caring, as well as his extensive expertise."
Unknown Attorney | Apr 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Bartish is truly an asset to the legal profession. He is very passionate about what he does and is willing to fight for his client's rights."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 12
Relationship: Friend
"I wholeheartedly support Michael as the best criminal defense attorney I've had the pleasure of knowing. I do not hesitate to refer clients to him, and the feedback from their experiences with Michael are nothing but positive. Michael is the type of attorney to whom I would trust my family and friends as well."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 23
Relationship: Co-worker
"For several years Mike and I worked together at a large Grand Rapids law firm. Mike is tireless in his pursuit of legal knowledge and has become my "go to" guy for criminal referrals in the Grand Rapids area."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mike is a fantastic criminal defense attorney. I have observed him in court handling a difficult matter with great professionalism, and I am comfortable sending referrals to him knowing that he will do a fantastic job."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I absolutely endorse Michael Bartish. Michael is an excellent criminal defense attorney; I always refer potential clients to him. Michael is ethical, honest and hardworking. I am confident that he provides outstanding legal services to his clients, always keeping their best interests in mind."
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