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Michael R. Cohen

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Avvo Rating10
  • Eau Claire, WI
  • Licensed for 29 years
Michael R. Cohen
Michael R. Cohen
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About Michael

Accused of a crime? I can help protect your liberty interests. Contact me for a consultation. **COVID-19 update: we are open for business**

Practice areas

DUI and DWICriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 50%

    My primary focus is on sex crime defense and high level felony crimes including, but not limited to, homicide and other violent crimes, domestic violence offenses, white collar crimes, drug offenses, and property crimes.

  2. DUI and DWI: 50%

    My focus is on any serious high level DUI/DWI/OWI offense including, but not limited to, all felony level offenses, injury and death cases, CDL offenses, and other driving offenses involving negligent, intoxicated or drugged driving.

Contact

17 S Barstow St
address map

Cohen Law Offices, LLC

17 S Barstow St
PO Box 1938
Eau Claire, WI, 54702-1938

Website
http://www.eauclairecriminaldefense.com/

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
WIGood Standing199111/17/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers579
Legal guides13
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2016
Forensic Chromatography IX: Blood Testing Theory & PracticeAmerican Chemical Society2013
Forensic Chromatography: Solid Drug Dose Testing IIIAmerican Chemical Society2013
(NHTSA)/(IACP) Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (SFST) CoursePlatt and Associates2012
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
Owner/AttorneyCohen Law Offices2012 - Present
Owner/AttorneyJohnson and Cohen2006 - 2012
AttorneyLaman and Swenson1999 - 2006
Owner/AttoreneyWachowski, Johnson and Cohen1994 - 1999
Associate AttorneyHertel, White, Schilling and Johnson1991 - 1994
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Eau Claire County Bar AssociationMemberN/A
State Bar of WisconsinMemberN/A
Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense LawyersBoard of DirectorsN/A
National Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMemberN/A
Eau Claire Morning RotaryPast President - Former Board MemberN/A
Chippewa River IndustriesChairman-Board of DirectorsN/A
Supreme Court Preliminary Review CommitteeAttorney Member2006 - 2009
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
University of Wisconsin Law School JD - Juris Doctor1991
Dartmouth College BA - Bachelor of Arts1988
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Lunch and the LawEvidenced Based Practice in Eau Claire and its Procedures and Effects2011
Lunch and the LawNew OWI Law Changes and Effects2010
Lunch and the LawImplications of Specific USSC Cases on Duties of Defense Counsel Towards Non-citizens2010
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
State v Thomas MartinNot Guilty
State v. ZarnkeSupreme Court Reversed Court of Appeals

Reviews

(34)
5 Star
94%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
6%
Review Michael Cohen

An Amazing Savior

Posted by

I will be the first to tell you that, if you have your life on the line and you need a savior, you should hire Mr. Cohen. We hired him to defend our son against the highest charge: 1st degree intentional homicide. The incident resulted in a mans death, but it was self-defense. Our son was attacked in his own home. We could have lost our son forever but, thanks to Mr. Cohen, our son gets to have a future. His expertise in his profession, and his knowledge of the law, was absolutely amazing. I am positive that, without Mr. Cohen, we would not of had the result that we did. I never in my life would have thought that I would need someone like him but I thank god every day that he was there. The state even gave the jury the option of 1st degree reckless homicide, in case they couldn't find him guilty of the first charge. With Mr. Cohen's belief in our son, and his dedication to getting the facts to the jury, it ended up with a "not guilty" on both charges!!! They say that when things get really tough you should call on all of your angels.....Mr. Cohen was ours. This is an extraordinary man that believes in what he does and, as a mother, he will always hold a special place in my heart.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

The Best of the Best

Posted by

Bravo to Mr. Cohen and his wonderful team of experts!! When dealing with a very stressful and delicate situation-and especially when things were handled so inappropriately by the other parties involved-Mr. Cohen was very reassuring, prompt and diligent in handling every detail. He explained the law in layman's terms, meanwhile was compassionate and caring, as were the members of his law firm. He definitely has his clients' backs at all times, knows the law inside and out, and takes no prisoners! Thank you, Mr. Cohen, and your firm. I would recommend him to anyone and everyone.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Weapon charge

Posted by

I hired Mike a few years back due to a serious accusation against me. I had no clue the serious nature of the charges because I have never been violent or even touched another person in anger. Once I learned the nature of the charges, I was referred to Mike by a highly respected family lawyer. After hiring Mike the entire system was easy to deal with and court was always short and sweet. Today I retain my constitutional rights. If it weren’t for the media I would live a normal and happy life, the only problem is all charges were not dismissed making me appear guilty. I did expect all charges to be dismissed due to many factors and question why they were not. My only assumption is Mike must have considered me to be guilty. The good news is I am able to live a normal life besides I lost my entire professional career and have no hope of recouping that, so my education expenses are flushed down the toilet. If you are in a relationship with a alcoholic abuser, just leave before they do things like this to you.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Phenomenal Lawyer

Posted by

I hired Mr. Cohen for my serious felony case that carried a mandatory minimum prison sentence. He told me he would win and keep me out of prison. He did as he said he would. Obviously, you can't do better. If you care about your case, spend the money and hire him.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

best lawyer ever

Posted by

Mr, Cohen is by far the best lawyer i have ever encountered. He never stops working for you. He is truthful, kind and caring. He has done miracles because he never stops trying and he never will. Its a part of him that cares for humanity.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

The Best

Posted by

My husband and I highly recommend Mr. Cohen to anyone that is in serious trouble. Our daughter faced very serious charges involving her children. It was a complex case with mitigating factors. Michael and his team of experts were able to sort out these complications. He clearly had a very good working relationship with the District Attorney. The two of them were able to come to a reasonable agreement on behalf of our daughter. It was a difficult case. She was facing many, many long years in jail. With the expertise of Mr. Cohen and his team she will still have a life after. The outcome of our case was much, much less. Mr. Cohen knows the law and his team are experts in their field. I would not hesitate to recommend this attorney to anyone that finds themselves in serious trouble. I had no knowledge of navigating through the judicial system. It is stressful and overwhelming. Michael Cohen is the expert you want. He is honest and upfront.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

An Amazing Attorney

Posted by

In April of 2016 I was charged with First Degree Intentional Homicide. In October 2017 I was found Not Guilty at Jury Trial of both First Degree Intentional Homicide, as well as the State's lesser included charge of First Degree Reckless Homicide. Mike was with me the entire time. Through the good and the bad. To be honest there probably wasn't a single moment I could qualify as "good." He's the best. An absolute pro. He did everything that needed to be done. When he speaks the Jury listens. He's worth every penny. He saved my life. I can tell you that no matter what problem life has thrown at you... if you choose Mike, you'll have the best possible chance you could ever even hope for. I truly admire this man and everything he is capable of.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

The Real Deal

Posted by

I hired Mike to represent me when the state accused me of committing two felonies and a plethora of traffic violations. The two felonies, operating a motor vehicle without owners consent and 2nd degree reckless endangering safety, held a maximum penalty of 16 years. (8 in confinement, 8 on extended supervision) I was also charged with an OWI and other traffic citations. The state had the evidence they need to prosecute me but they didn't have Mike. Mr. Cohen wrote up a plea deal which did not include jail time and I was more than happy with it. The district attorney agreed and we settled the case. When all is said and done I will end up without a criminal record and a ton of opportunities I wouldn't have had if it wasn't for Mike. If you are in need of representation pull out your pocketbook and get yourself the best lawyer around. He isn't going to be your friend, hold your hand or comfort you along the way. He will work his ass off and get you another chance. Show up on time and do as he says, Mike handles the rest.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Excellent Lawyer

Posted by

Mr. Cohen is extremely intelligent and knows the law well. He does not avoid issues and is straight forward. I was represented by Mr. Cohen for a DUI and he explored every avenue in my case and represented me as well as I could have asked for. His knowledge and honesty are great attributes to his ability as a lawyer.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

You need Michael Cohen if you are reading this! He will absolutely take care of you.

Posted by

We hired Mr. Cohen for our son who was facing first degree attempted homicide, first degree reckless endangerment, and bail jumping. We called Mr. Cohen on a Sunday morning and he returned our call by 10:00 a.m. and he was at the jail by 2:00 p.m. talking to our son. Our son was attacked while working on a Saturday night. He defended himself with a knife against drunk young men. We ended up going to trial in front of a jury. Mr. Cohen was amazing from questioning potential jurors all the way through the 4 day trial. He was "on the edge your seat" riveting during the trial! He knew every detail of the police reports. He made the state's witnesses look like fools and proved they were lying. Even the police witnesses seemed to help our case when Mr. Cohen was cross examining them. After the state rested with their argument, Mr. Cohen had the first and third charges thrown out. The first degree reckless endangerment is what went to the jury. After a 7 hour deliberation, the jury came back as not guilty! Our son got his life and his future back. Our family can now be whole again and start the healing process after 21 months of a nightmare. Mr. Cohen was worth every penny and then some. We are so lucky to have a lawyer of this caliber in the Eau Claire area!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
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Attorney endorsements

(25)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Daniel Skarie, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jul 22, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I highly endorse this lawyer. I had the pleasure of attending the DUI Defense Lawyers Association summer conference with Atty. Cohen. Michael is an extremely skilled and knowledgeable trial attorney. I would have no hesitation referring a friend or family member to Atty. Cohen.

Heather Pauls, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 27, 2014
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

While Mike and I do not work together anymore, I believe Mike to be hands-down the number one defense attorney in the area. He might not be warm and fuzzy, but he gets the job done and does a great job for his clients. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Mike.

Harry Hertel, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 24, 2013
Relationship: Supervised lawyer

I endorse this lawyer based upon knowing him for twenty years. I originally hired Mike upon his graduation from the University of Wisconsin Law School, and found him to be a zealous advocate for his clients. He stays current on changes in the law, and is able to cite cases with speed and accuracy. He argues well for his clients, and fights hard for acceptable solutions if possible. If not, he is not afraid to try cases, no matter how difficult. Although we are technically competitors, we have a good relationship, and often meet to discuss issues important to our clients. I consider Mike to be among the elite defense attorneys in the Chippewa Valley.

Christopher Leroi, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 10, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mr. Cohen is an exemplary attorney who I would recommend to everyone and anyone. Hiring him might very well be the best decision that you have ever made. His answers on Avvo are perfect. I have practiced for 24 years as a judge, magistrate, prosecutor, and private attorney and he is one of the best I have encountered.

Josh Lee, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 27, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Attorney Cohen is a skilled and knowledgeable attorney. He attends the best of the best seminars across the US to learn all the latests cutting edge science and defenses to put to use defending you when accused of a DUI/DWI. A good guy, a desire to fight, and knowledge to do it with makes for a great combination for your defense.

Brian Manchester, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 25, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mike is an excellent lawyer. I met him at the Forensic Gas Chromatography School put on by the American Chemical Society. This is a training school put on for elite DUI lawyers from across the country. Mike is one of those lawyers who truely shows dedication to his clients and attending this training course is one of them. If you are arrested for DUI in the areas where Mike practices you must hire this man.

Robert Henak, Criminal defense Attorney on May 23, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mike is a conscientious and thoughtful lawyer who cares about his clients. I am happy to endorse him.

Todd Schroeder, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 1, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Michael Cohen is an excellent lawyer and zealous advocate for his clients. He is one of only a handful of attorneys statewide that understands the "science" behind drunk driving prosecutions and thus how to defend against it. If you need a cutting-edge defense attorney, hire Michael Cohen.

Nathan Dineen, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 21, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I fully endorse attorney Cohen. He is known across the State for DUI and Criminal Defense. He is skilled litigator and has an excellent reputation. You will be well-serves with him on your side.

Emily Long, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 25, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have worked with Mr. Cohen both as a prosecutor and a fellow attorney. I have found him to be excellent both at determining the worth of a case and defending cases.

Charles Franklin, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 13, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I highly recommend this attorney. Very intelligent and very thorough when analyzing legal issues! Compassionate with clients and aggressive with legal issues! 5 STARS!!

Jill Schilling, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 13, 2012
Relationship: Supervised lawyer

I worked with Mike in the same criminal defense law firm early in his career, and I was impressed from the beginning with his dedication, tenacity, and creative thinking. Mike works diligently for his clients, and I would not hesitate to refer people to him.

Jay Heit, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 7, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Mike works hard for his clients.

Michael Witt, Criminal defense Attorney on May 19, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Through my interaction with him on the Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers board, I can say that his reputation as a tenacious and intelligent advocate for his clients is well deserved.

Bradley Fisher

I endorse this lawyer. He provides detailed and insightful analysis to questions posed by AVVO subscribers. The detailed responses and thorough explanations provided here display a vast knowledge of the law. He is an asset to the legal community.

Andrew Mishlove, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 2, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Michael Cohen is a preeminent lawyer in the Eau Claire area. Not only is Mike a skilled advocate, but he truly cares about his clients. I would not hesitate to refer a close friend or family member to Michael Cohen. Andrew Mishlove

Tazewell Shepard, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 29, 2011
Relationship: Friend

This an excellent lawyer, espcially in the area of criminal defense. Mr. Cohen has the respect of judges and attorneys alike.

Howard Lewis, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 24, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Cohen is an outstanding attorney with an exceptional reputation. He is one of the best Criminal Defense attorneys in WI and if I needed a criminal defense attorney he is the one I would call first. He is a strong and zealous advocate for his clients and a credit to the legal profession.

William Morgan, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 17, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have known and worked with Mike for several years and he has consistently shown the utmost dedication to his clients and the profession. I would not hesitate to recommend him.

Karyn Missimer, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 19, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

As one can see from his many thoughtful posts on Avvo, Michael is a creative lawyer dedicated to obtaining the best results for his clients. Further, he has the skill and knowledge to defend his clients vigorously. I whole-heartedly recommend Michael's services.