Not Every Criminal Defense Lawyer Is the Same

Practicing criminal defense law successfully requires a thorough knowledge of the Constitution, case law, rules of procedure and more.

Michael A. Rataj is a Detroit criminal defense attorney. Since establishing his practice, Michael A. Rataj, PC, in 1989, has been involved in more than 100 criminal trials encompassing a variety of matters. He knows the law, the judges, prosecutors and others involved in the criminal justice system.

No other attorney will out-research, out-strategize or out-work him. He is internally driven to win, and he will not back down from a fight to protect your rights and your freedom.

He has earned a positive reputation among his peers and his clients for his success in difficult criminal trials due to his expertise:

Military experience

As a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, he possesses a disciplined mindset, work ethic, and attitude to defense work.

Fearless Advocacy

He is not afraid of a difficult case. He has been involved in many high-profile cases and has defended against virtually every type of criminal charge.

In-depth Trial Experience

He has handled many different cases in front of judges and juries. He knows how to increase the chances of acquittal.

Federal Court Experience

Not all lawyers know federal laws, rules and procedures. He has represented clients facing federal charges, including one on death row in Georgia and currently one facing the death penalty in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan.

Media Appearances

He is frequently requested to be a legal consultant for several media outlets. He has established a well-earned reputation in his community and has been recognized by various media outlets as a legal expert including Channels 2, 4, and 7; The Detroit News; and Detroit Free Press.

Many will also remember him for his work as co-counsel for Bobby Ferguson in 2013 as part of Detroit’s then-mayor Kwame Kilpatrick’s corruption trial. A media appearance clip infiltrated the internet, which to some demonstrated his aggressive nature when it comes to fighting for his clients. He has also been interviewed on the CNBC show American Greed regarding Kilpatrick, as well by Meredith Vieira for an “American Gangsters” episode featuring a Russian mobster.

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