Legal Solutions for You,
Your Family & Your Business
Doug Dern
Doug Dern & Associates
11636 Highland Rd
Hartland, MI 48353
Phone: (810) 632-9160 | Fax: (810) 632-7287
http://www.law4less.org
Quality Legal Service, Affordable Rates. Why pay more?
Legal Topic
Criminal Defense
Preferred New Clients
Bankruptcy Chapter 7 and Chapter 13, Drunk Driving, Criminal, and Fair Debt Collection.
Sub-Categories
Criminal Defense
- Felonies
- Juvenile Crimes
- Misdemeanors
- Animal Abuse
- Child Abuse
- Domestic Violence
- Elder Abuse
- DUI
- Felony Auto Accidents
- Parking Tickets & Towing
- Traffic - Moving Violations
- Open Container
- Driving with a Suspended License
- Driving without a License
- DWI
- Drug Cultivation & Manufacturing
- Drug Possession
- Intent to Distribute Drugs
- Intent to Sell Drugs
- Medical Marijuana
- Arson
- Burglary
- Embezzlement
- Larceny
- Shoplifting
- Theft
- Trespass
- Vandalism
- Assault & Battery
- Domestic Violence
- Extortion
- Kidnapping
- Manslaughter
- Murder
- Robbery
Legal Topic
Bankruptcy
Preferred New Clients
Bankruptcy Chapter 7 and Chapter 13, Drunk Driving, Criminal, and Fair Debt Collection.
Sub-Categories
Bankruptcy
- Chapter 13
- Chapter 7
- Collections & Repossessions
- Credit Disputes
- Debt Relief
- Garnishments
- Business Bankruptcy
- Credit Repair
- Credit Restoration
- Creditor Harassment
- Personal Bankruptcy
- Foreclosures
Bar Admissions
MI, Nov 2002
Bar Number: P64567
Other Court Admissions
Michigan State Bar, Eastern District of Michigan, and Western District of Michigan.
Association Memberships
State Bar of Michigan.
Continuing Education
I attend Bankruptcy seminars.
Papers and Publications
I published a self help book.
Example Cases
Some of my biggest challenges in Bankruptcy Court have been Trustee challenge to Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) exemptions and TIAA accounts. I have challenged many drunk driving traffic stops under the Terry stop.
Education
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
School:
University of Oklahoma
City:
Norman
State:
OK
Year:
1999
Focus and Accomplishments:
Political Science
Degree:
Juris Doctorate
School:
Thomas Cooley Law School
City:
Lansing
State:
MI
Year:
2001
Focus and Accomplishments:
Litigation
Number of Attorneys
1
State Licensed In
Michigan
Firm Focus and History
Our focus is a commitment to helping others receive quality legal representation at an affordable rate. That is why our website is www.law4less.org. Why pay more?
We do Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy at reasonable fees. We also do Criminal Defense work. We are not a public defender, but if you want a quality private attorney at a rate that you can afford you should give me a call. Our focus on Drunk Driving defense is like no other. Don't just plead guilty until you have explored all your options.
Firm was started in 2002, representing people that couldn't afford the big firms. We started law4less to help people. We moved from Criminal into the area of Consumer Bankruptcy. We are located in Hartland, Michigan because it is conveniently located near Brighton, Fenton, Flint, Ann Arbor, Milford, Highland and other areas that can be traveled to easily.
Previous Employment Summary
I was a blue-collared worker. I know what it is like to work hard to earn your money. Your money will be well spent at this office.
What is your opinion regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?
If it's done properly, it is a great idea. I have a lot of clients that haven't done it right and get themselves into a mess. But I have some clients that have researched their topic so well that I learn from them.
Are you willing to review documents prepared by clients?
It is standard practice at my office.
Are you willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?
I do that often, as long as I don't spend too much time doing it. I am always willing to spend an hour with a client for a very small fee to help them.
Why did you decide to be a lawyer?
I wanted to be a champion of justice. I was sick of watching people with power taking advantage of the little guy, the hard worker, the less fortunate, the poor, the ignorant. Now I can help people get out from their debt through Bankruptcy. I can help people fight for their rights in Criminal Matters. I know that out there on the streets the police are under pressure and don't always get it right. You need someone like me who understands that.
What work experience and education helps you be a better lawyer?
I didn't become a lawyer until later in life. I was out there living life. I am not some sheltered, stuffed shirt Harvard guy. You won't get that with me. I am down to earth and have lived and worked hard. I thought the world needed a lawyer with common sense.
Why did you decide on your primary area of practice?
My two areas of practice are Criminal Defense and Bankruptcy. These are the two areas that nobody wants to ever find themselves in. I understand that when you come to see me you are going to be in pain and fear. I am good at taking an awful situation and helping you through it with as little pain as possible.
What do you like best about your career?
Every day is something different.
Tell us about your law firm:
I am a solo practitioner. For some things, I have associates. I have a great staff of paralegals that are friendly and helpful.
What are your strengths and style?
My strength is I am a rock under pressure. I do what it takes to get the job done. If that means being friendly and kind, I will do it. If I have to turn mean and aggressive to help you, no problem.
Personal Interests:
Tigers, Red Wings, Pistons, boxing, golf, chess, books, and fishing.
Office Manager/Assistant
Stacy Komesher
Fax
(810) 632-7287
Office Hours
Monday through Friday
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday by appointment.
Flint and Livonia offices coming soon.
Emergency After Hours
Yes
Fixed-Price Services and Fees
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy: $500
Chapter 13: $3,000 with $950 up front
Drunk Driving: $1,500 without trial
Hourly Rates
$220.
Free Initial Consultation?
I usually charge $20 to cover copies. However, if retained on the spot, that is waived.
Typical Retainer
I do a lot of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. My fee is $500, plus filing fees of $299 and credit counseling of $68, so $867 out the door. Why pay more?
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