Licensed for 26 years

State WA

Acquired 1996

Status
Active No misconduct found

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

Michael E Harbeson

DUI and DWI Attorney at Puyallup, WA

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Resume

Made a tough case easier

FIRST TIME DUI CONVICTION

About Michael

Learn Michael’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

DUI and DWI

40%

DUI / DWI matters including Department of Licensing issues.

23 years, 1,000 cases
Criminal defense

25%
Speeding and traffic ticket

15%
Civil rights

5%

Restoration of Firearm Rights

8 years, 100 cases
Domestic violence

5%
Expungement

5%
Federal crime

3%
Juvenile law

2%

SELECTING A SOLID DEFENSE IS THE KEY TO YOUR FREEDOM AND FUTURE. MICHAEL E. HARBESON IS THAT KEY.

With more than 21 years of experience, I will fully commit myself to your case, help you navigate through the complex legal system and educate you about the legal and practical options presented by your case.

Because I have extensive experience as both a prosecutor and defense attorney, I have a comprehensive knowledge of what the prosecution is likely to try in your case. This allows me to aggressively rebut any frivolous allegations and aggressively defend you in negotions or litigation. I am always committed to the best possible outcome; if it is not possible to get a charge dismissed, I will do everything possible to mitigate any possible consequences and preserve your professional and personal life.

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Contact Michael

Law Office of Michael E. Harbeson

(253) 243-0468 Office

(253) 295-4955 Fax

105 W Main Avenue, Suite B117

Puyallup, WA, 98371

Harbesonlaw.com

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Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0

18 customer reviews

5 Star

100%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by anonymous | February 18, 2020

Made a tough case easier

I had an issue with medications that Mike immediately recognized and had experience with. He was able to take care of my case in a diversionary manner and I was satisfied with the result considering the severe penalties I could have incurred.

Posted by jovany | January 24, 2020

FIRST TIME DUI CONVICTION

It was my first time getting a DUI, pretty scary feeling a friend recommended Michael to me and it was a great decision to hire him on. He was very knowledgeable about situations like these, gave me all the information i needed to get started, especially for my restricted license. He got everything resolved in two court days and got my DUI reduced to negligent driving. I would definitely recommend Michael to others!!!!.

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Posted by Sam | November 20, 2019

He’s what you need

Even when things got a little sticky in my first time DUI case, Mike knows the right things to bring up and knows how to handle what gets thrown at him. I’m impressed by the confidence, composure and knowledgeability. He knows the right people, which is the biggest name of the game because if you don’t, you don’t have a defense. I’m thoroughly content with how he handled my case and if you are in the south sound area I would strongly advise to at least consult with the guy. At a fair price I doubt there are much better options. My only problem was lack of communication within his own office. I wasn’t able to get ahold of him as much as I would’ve liked to (since he’s busy handling business), and it seemed like one of his representatives didn’t have as much experience but Mike still handled it well.

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Posted by Brent | February 7, 2019

Beyond Expectations

Everyone needs a good attorney. Mike is everything we needed and he met our needs at very reasonable rates. I happen to drive in a manor that lands me tickets once and a while and Mike makes them go away pretty darn painlessly. He helped us with tickets and property / land questions. Great Rates , Awesome Service Brent, Liz, Kyle Bonney Lake

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Posted by anonymous | September 2, 2018

No Contact Order lifted

Mr. Harbeson worked with me for a year to get the No Contact Order lifted. After a 10 months being away from my family, we went back to court and even when the Prosecuting Attorney wanting to have the lift revoked, the Judge saw that I did what was asked by the court by completing the classes that were ordered and agreed to have it lifted and granted me to be able to go back home with my family! Mr. Harbeson returned my calls quickly with the answers to my questions. He is a very compassionate person that knows the law inside out because of his experience in the legal field as a Prosecuting Attorney and will fight for your rights..

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Posted by anonymous | August 22, 2018

Reinstated my gun rights for a affordable rate

I called around everywhere looking for a lawyer. And desided to have Michael represent me. He has helped friends of mine and heard nothing but good to be honest. He reinstate my gun rights! Everything went smooth couldn't be happier!

Posted by Rebecca | March 29, 2018

Excellent Legal Representative

I recently hired Michael for legal representation and cannot express enough how impressed I am with his professionalism and knowledge of the law. I was scared to say the least, but Michael calmed my fears and gave sound advice on what was my best recourse. Making a long story short, I took my case to trial and was found not guilty. Michael went to bat for me and we won. He is nothing short of awesome. And he does not charge you a million dollars either. He cares about his clients.

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Posted by David | March 25, 2016

You can count on Michael Harbeson

I had 3 DWL in the 3rd degree infractions in 2 different cities resulting in 3 warrants and a revoked license. I called Michael and met with him the next day. Within 3 weeks my warrants were gone and I was able to go get my license. I didn't have to do anything. I have one court date coming up and Michael will be there with me. Michael answers his phone when I call ALWAYS. He is a genuinely caring person and HONEST. He will not fleece you. I would 100% recommend him to anyone seeking an attorney in his field. I put off handling these legal matters for years because I assumed it would be a huge hassle. Michael made it effortless. If you need help and want a REAL advocate you should call Michael.

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Posted by Law Enforcment Officer | March 11, 2016

Impressed by this Lawyer

I have been in Law Enforcement for 20 years. I have never endorsed a Criminal Lawyer but I find this particular Attorney Honest and very hard working. Mike truly cares about his clients and it was very evident in this particular case. I would highly recommend Michael Harbeson as a criminal attorney.

Posted by anonymous | January 11, 2016

Tickets

Mr. Michael Harbeson is an excellent attorney he's the best in Washington courts. He will win every ticket and every criminal case in any court. I used him and well continue to use him for ever. He's an amazing human being. Very honest , professional and gets the job done a 5 star attorney .

Posted by Stacy | August 26, 2015

Best decision I could have made

Going through the court process can be very stressful. I hired Michael to handle a criminal and driving infraction I was facing when I had gotten pulled over not realizing my license was suspended. Not only did he answer every question I could have had, he walked me through the entire process and ultimately got one of my charges lowered while getting the others dismissed. When dealing with that kind of situation, it was the most comforting feeling knowing I had someone so reliable and supportive to have my back. I highly recommend Michael for any kind of DUI or driving situation you find yourself in.

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Posted by Stewart | August 27, 2013

Fine representation in a complex DUI case

I retained Mr. Harbeson to represent my nephew, who is on active duty in the military, in a DUI and minor-in-possession case. The case was complex because not only were both civil and military authorites involved, but also two states because my nephew had an out-of-state license. Mike was calm, helpful, offered a free consultation, cooperated well with all authorities as well as with a concerned uncle and mother--and, most importantly, obtained an excellent outcome for my nephew. As a first offender who was not legally intoxicated, he got a lesson but not a permanent black mark on his record with a reduction in charges to negligent driving. Mike had an excellent combination of calmness, understanding, and firmness. I recommend him with no reservations of any kind.

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Posted by anonymous | May 7, 2013

very helpfull

Mike handled my DUI, He calmed me down and gave me real answers. With his experience you feel like your in good hands, I will recommend Mike to anybody who needs a good lawyer period.

Posted by anonymous | April 27, 2013

Couldn't have asked for more!!!

After getting a DUI I was scared and didn't know where to begin. I was lucky enough that a friend had already gotten a DUI and had Mike's business card. After that he took care of everything, keeping me up to date as my case progressed. He said everything would be OK and it is! Thank you Mike!

Posted by Alisha Narramore-Nasinec | June 2, 2012

Fabulous Care

Talk about an amazing man! Mr. Harbeson has been so patient and is a remarkable representative. Not only has he steered me in the light of the right path to take in life, he has become a mentor in counceling. I had never felt so much guilt and shame in my lives mistake that I had committed. His advice to take "One day at a time" rings in my head when I start to feel pressure. He has been there for me in answering the phone at all hours of the day or night. He has and will be not just an attourney but a life long friend who I admire and think that more people in this world should get to know. His heart and compassion is in the best interest of his clients and I have been blown away by how much he cares. I reccomend MIke, a round of applause to him, I will forever be thankful!

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Posted by anonymous | June 1, 2012

Best choice I ever made!

Michael Harbeson was recommended by a friend while I was getting pulled over. I called him right away and he took care of everything from there. He kept me up to date and took care of my DUI before it even became a headache.

Posted by anonymous | June 10, 2011

An Awesome Attorney.

Iâ€™ve had to use Michael Harbeson for multiple traffic violations over the years, and he somehow always helps. Without Michael Harbeson I wouldn't be driving. Seriously, without him my car insurance premiums would be beyond what I can afford (I'm a bad driver). He is knowledgeable. He is not afraid to go to trial and fight the State. And he always kept me in the loop about the status of my case, which I appreciated. Iâ€™d recommend Michael Harbeson to anyone in need of an experienced criminal defense attorney: he's affordable, he cares, and he wins.

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Posted by Brett | May 15, 2011

Straightforward and honest

I have recommended Michael Harbeson to my friends and family for years now. Every time I have had a speeding ticket or hear of a friend who received a DUI I call Michael. He always keeps me informed on where the case stands and delivers results. I highly recommend this lawyer.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Owner
Law Office of Michael E. Harbeson
2004 - Present

Judge Pro-tem
Eatonville Municipal Court
2012 - 2012

Associate
Law Office of Barbara A. Bowden, P.S.
2002 - 2004

Associate
Crawford, McGilliard, Peterson, Yelish & Dixon
1999 - 1999

Prosecuting Attorney
City of Auburn
1999 - 2001

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
King County Prosecutor's Office
1998 - 1999

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
Pierce County Prosecuting Attorney's Office
1997 - 1998

View all work experience

Education

Gonzaga University School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1996

Seattle University
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1993

Legal Cases

State of Washington vs Gebhardt-Steadman
Upheld on appeal

City of Puyallup vs. Rebecca Roberts
Not Guilty at Jury Trial

State v Berry
Not Guilty at jury trial

View all legal cases

Associations

Better Business Bureau
Member
2017 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Member
2016 - Present

National College of DUI Defense
Member
2015 - Present

Washington State Bar Association, Criminal Law Section
Member
2015 - Present

Pierce County District Court Liason Committee
Member
2014 - Present

National Advocacy for DUI Defense
Member
2014 - Present

Tacoma Pierce County Bar Association
Member
2004 - Present

National Institute for Trial Advocacy
Member
2004 - Present

Tacoma Pierce County Bar Association, Criminal Law Section
Member
2004 - Present

United States District Court for the Western District of Washington
Attorney Member
2002 - Present

Federal Trial Bar
Member
2002 - Present

Washington State Bar Association
Member
1996 - Present

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Top 100 DUI Attorneys
National Advocacy for DUI Defense
2020

Best DUI Attorneys In Tacoma
Best DWI Attorneys
2020

Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2020

Eagle Scout
Boy Scouts of America
1988

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Publications

Continuing Legal Education Seminar publication
Can the State Toxicology Lab Still Make Mistakes?
2011

Speaking Engagements

DUI Defense Updates
DUI Draeger
2019

CLE
State Toxicology Lab
2011

Attorney endorsements

Received (32)

Given (23)

Endorse Michael

Joseph Cutter

Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. He is hard working and very pleasant to deal with. He is honest and always patient. He goes the extra mile for his clients"

Eric Schurman

Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Mr. Harbeson professionally for many years and hold him in the highest regard. His skill, experience, and knowledge as a criminal defense attorney is remarkable. He has an outstanding reputation in the legal community--from prosecutors, judges, and defense attorneys alike and have consulted him on numerous occasions. I highly endorse this lawyer."

Kenlynn Gallinger

Debt collection Attorney | Jun 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have know Mike for many years and cannot speak highly enough of his capabilities. He is thorough and knowledgeable and gets results. I would not hesitate to recommend Mike"

Ali Ebrahimzadeh

Unknown Attorney | Jan 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Matthew Zenner

Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington

Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Ryan Fishman

Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Martha Mclaughlin

Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I endorse this lawyer. He is an exceptional attorney that is always confident and reassuring with his clients, and professional and courteous towards his colleagues."

Jarrett Blakeley

Unknown Attorney | Nov 29
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Dennis Twichel

DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Mike since the late 90's when he was a Prosecutor. He is a great DUI defense attorney! His experience and expertise are unparalleled. I strongly endorse Mike."

Colin McCallin

Unknown Attorney | Oct 03
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Joseph Torri

Unknown Attorney | Sep 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Simon Kabzan

Unknown Attorney | Sep 11
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this individual as a highly respected and knowledgable lawyer in their practice."

Portland Campanaro

Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. One of the top attorneys in the region."

Christopher Martens

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 21
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer. Michael is talented and savvy defense attorney. I would highly recommend him for any criminal case and especially for a DUI/DWI case."

John Tymczyszyn

Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Michael Waddington

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Roberto Yranela

DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 27
Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer. Mike is a very helpful attorney with a good attitude no matter the situation."

Edward Nelson

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 24
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Mike Harbeson is a very knowledgeable criminal defense/DUI attorney, He is also an experienced trial attorney. Mike works extremely hard for his clients from arraignment to verdict. Mike will find a way to get the job done and do it with a smile on his face."

Mark Larsson

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 13
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"Mike has more experience defending DUI's and other criminal charges than almost any other attorney in Pierce county and he has been on both sides (former prosecutor). He is dedicated to his clients and is one of the genuinely caring attorneys out there, and there aren't many unfortunately. If you need help and want an attorney that will truthfully look out for your best interests you should contact Mike Harbeson."

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