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Shawn James Haff
About Shawn
Biography
I have been a lifelong resident of West Michigan. I graduated from Hudsonville High School in 1993. I went on to Grand Valley State University where I earned two Bachelor degrees: Political Science and Legal Studies. While attending GVSU, I served on the Student Senate and made the Dean’s list on a regular basis. Seeing so many injustices within our political and judicial systems, I felt driven to attend law school. While being trained on how to become a tough criminal defense lawyer, I received an Honor’s scholarship and Certification in Litigation. I made the Dean’s list numerous times, was actively involved in many student activities and received my Juris Doctorate.
I have honed my legal skills at a local prosecutor’s office, high-profile West Michigan law firms and from handling hundreds of criminal cases. I believe in treating my clients with respect and dignity. I will fight for my client’s rights all the time! I am dedicated to providing my clients with aggressive and exceptional representation in all criminal matters. My legal skills have been proven in court, where I have an excellent track record in criminal jury trials.
I am a contrarian by nature and enjoy taking on the Government. I have a healthy skepticism of law enforcement and the police department. This will be evident should I cross examine the cop that arrested you or that raided your house.
I live with my wife in Jenison, Michigan. We love to follow the Detroit Tigers and Lions. We also enjoy fishing and Michigan’s great lakes.
I am a sincere attorney who really cares and spends time on his client's issues. I can handle all criminal matters and I can save you a lot of money when you are facing owi/dui or any other criminal charges. My rates won't make you serve a life sentence of debt!
My initial consultation is totally free! I will personally handle your case from start to finish. Call me now at!
I look forward to talking to you personally about your case and helping you out during this difficult time in your life!
Attorney Shawn James Haff
Practice Areas
8
Practice Areas
Fees and Rates
Cost
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in Michigan for 15 years
State: Michigan
Acquired: 2010
No misconduct found
Location
The Criminal Defense Law Center of West Michigan
2675 44th Street Suite 208, Grand Rapids, MI, 49519
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Shawn James Haff's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
78 Client Reviews
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Practice Areas
What Clients Mention
Case Results (58)
Advocacy (35)
Recommendation (27)
Professionalism (18)
Cost of Services (15)
Responsiveness (14)
Communication Style (13)
Compassion (13)
Character & Conduct (12)
Practice Area Knowledge (11)
Trustworthiness (9)
General Knowledge (8)
Punctuality (5)
Free Consultations (1)
Payment Plans (1)
Showing 66 - 70 of 78 reviews
Posted by Colton | January 11, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Possession charge dropped
I was facing jail time because of a probation violation. The p.o. wanted me to do ten days downtown and the judge was very hostile. Shawn boldly defended me and told the judge the p.o.'s request was outrageous. Thanks to Shawn's efforts, I walked out of court a free man with no jail time. I would de...
Shawn Haff
Replied last January 11, 2016Thanks Colton, I am very glad I could help you out!
Posted by anonymous | October 26, 2015 | Criminal Defense
An honest review of Mr. Haff
After being arrested for 3rd degree retail fraud, I made numerous calls to attorneys for legal advice. It wasn't until I had spoken with Mr. Haff that I finally felt more in control of the situation and felt respected. Society will have you believe that lawyers are sharks and will try to trick y...
Shawn Haff
Replied last October 26, 2015I am humbled by your wonderful review! Thank you so much! Shawn
Posted by anonymous | October 26, 2015 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Great attorney!
Shawn was a very knowledgeable and impressive attorney in my case! This was a first offense and Shawn was able to work out a deal to avoid the charge going on my record. Shawn walked me through the process and explained everything very thoroughly! I would and do recommend him highly!
Shawn Haff
Replied last October 26, 2015Thank you so much! I am glad I was able to help you out! If you need me ever again, please call me! Thank you again! Shawn
Posted by Sarah | September 29, 2015 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Life Saver!
I would (and do whenever the opportunity presents itself) recommend Shawn to anyone in a bind! Not only did he represent me in a professional manner, he truly treated me like a valuable human being when many other people didn't. He was always kind and helpful...he even answered my calls and texts on ...
Shawn Haff
Replied last September 29, 2015Thank you so much Sarah!
Posted by Ben | September 16, 2015 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Even Better Than I Had Expected
I found Shawn online while looking for criminal defense lawyers on a misdemeanor possession charge. This being my first offense, I was deeply concerned about my career being destroyed. Shawn was able to negotiate a diversion program which saved my career at a fragile time. I am deeply grateful for hi...
Shawn Haff
Replied last September 16, 2015Thank you so much Ben! I am very happy I could help you out!
Shawn James Haff's Lawyer Endorsements
"Shawn is a premier criminal defense attorney in the Grand Rapids area. He combines passion, knowledge, and experience to get the best possible results for his clients. If a friend or loved one was facing a criminal charge in the Kent County area, I would definitely retain Shawn Haff."
"Shawn is an excellent attorney and is highly respected by his peers in the community. I am happy to endorse Shawn. He truly cares about his clients and that they receive the best possible legal representation. Shawn is well versed and current on the law and is well respected by the Judges and Court staff he appears in front of."
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Haff is a professional. He treats his clients with respect and always zealously advocates for his clients."
"I endorse Shawn. Avvo pro bono contributions are excellent. Knowledge of criminal law and procedure is significant. Client reviews are stellar. READ THEM! Do yourself a favor if you are in or near Grand Rapids and schedule a consultation with him."
"I strongly endorse Mr.Haff in all areas of law associated with criminal and DUI defense. He is a tremendous advocate for his clients."
"I endorse this lawyer. Tough, talented and thorough litigator."
"I endorse this lawyer. Highly respected."
"I endorse Shawn. Highly respected in the legal community with a strong reputation for client advocacy and dedication."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse Shawn. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
"I endorse this lawyer. A highly skilled and respected lawyer in the legal community."
"I endorse this lawyer. A highly skilled and respected lawyer in the legal community."
"I gladly endorse Attorney Haff. Mr. Haff definitely cares about those he serves and is quite knowledgeable about criminal defense. Attorney Haff's professionalism and concern for others makes it easy to endorse him and proud to call him a colleague."
"I endorse this Attorney Haff without reservation."
"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."
"Shawn Haff is a competent defense attorney who always puts the needs of his clients before his own. Anyone facing a criminal prosecution would be wise to contact Mr. Haff."
"Very reliable, honest and hard working."
"I endorse this lawyer's work & ethic."
"Shawn Haff is a diligent lawyer who knows the in's and out's of criminal practice of Western Michigan. Mr. Haff is appropriately aggressive, extremely knowledgeable, flexible and affordable. I'm proud to endorse this lawyer."
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Experience
Honors
2026
Society of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Top 100 Lawyers
2017
Top 100 Lawyers, American Society of Legal Advocates
2017
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2016
Top Contributor, Avvo
2016
Top Twenty Defense Lawyers Grand Rapids, Michigan, Expertise.com
2015
Client's Choice, Avvo
2015
Top 40 Lawyers Under 40, American Society of Legal Advocates
2013
Top 10 Under 40, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
2009
Litigation Certificate, Thomas M Cooley Law School
2008
Dean's list, Thomas M Cooley
2006
Dean's List, Grand Valley State University
2005
Dean's List, Grand Valley State University
1997
Dean's List, Grand Valley State University
1996
Dean's List, Grand Valley State University
Work Experience
2014 - Present
Owner, The Criminal Defense Law Center of West Michigan
2012 - 2014
Owner, The West Michigan Criminal Defense Law Firm
2010 - 2012
Owner, The Law Office of Shawn Haff
Associations
2010 - Present
Grand Rapids Bar AssociationMember
2010 - Present
State Bar of MichiganMember
2014 - 2016
Criminal Defense Attorneys of MichiganMember
2008 - 2009
Federalist SocietyPresident
1997 - 1998
Students for LifeVice President
1997 - 1998
Student Senator at GVSUSenator
Sample of Legal Cases
Assault Strangulation Charges
Misdemeanor charge, no Jail!
Criminal Sexual Conduct Charges
Not Guilty Verdict at Trial
Failure to Stop After a Property Damage Accident
Charges Dropped
Lying to a Police Officer
Charges Dropped
Larceny in a Building
Felony Charges Dismissed
Domestic Violence
Not Guilty!
Retail Fraud Charges Dismissed
dismissed
False Police Report Felony -- Charges Dropped
Charges Dropped
Possession of marijuana
not guilty
Parental Kidnapping charge dismissed!
dismissed
Domestic Violence
Dismissed
Creating a disturbance
dismissed
Driving while license Suspended
dismissed
Criminal Sexual Conduct Charges
Not Guilty Verdict at Trial
Criminal Sexual Conduct Charges
Not Guilty Verdict at Trial
Education
2010
Thomas M. Cooley Law School
Juris Doctor
2006
Grand Valley State University
BS - Bachelor of Science
1998
Grand Valley State University
BS - Bachelor of Science
Speaking Engagements
2026
A night of Law Professionals
How to win your Criminal Case in Grand Rapids, Michigan
2017
A Night With Professionals
Possession of Marijuana charges
2016
A Night With Professionals
Criminal Sexual Conduct Charges
Publications
2020
Digital Connect Magazine
Should I Become A Criminal Defense Lawyer
2019
Lanozione.com
10 questions to ask your criminal defense attorney
2017
Ezine Articles
First Offense DUI
2016
Go Articles
Criminal Sexual Conduct Charges in Michigan
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
Q&A
I'm on probation for misdemeanor possession of marijuana. If I fail the drug test, will I go to jail?
24 Apr 2015
Q&A
My 14 year old son was charged with Assault & Battery. He is also bipolar & has been hospitalized for it twice. Now what?
17 Apr 2015
Q&A
Experience with Judge Peter P. Versluis and Retail Fraud 3rd degree
06 Apr 2015