PRACTICE AREAS

Michele is well aware of the stress of divorce and custody disputes, often exacerbated by substance abuse issues and money problems. Her parents divorced when she was very young, in part because of alcoholism.  Her mother became a well known psychologist, and Michele grew up learning about communication and relationship skills.  She has been told many times by her family law clients that she has helped them get through their stressful divorce or custody dispute in a way they could feel good about later.

Michele started doing criminal defense law as a public defender in the late 80’s, and has always maintained a criminal defense component of her practice.  She knows both sides of criminal law, as she also prosecuted cases part time for the City of Crystal in Hennepin County for nearly twenty years.  She has tried hundreds of bench trials before a judge, and over forty trials by jury.  Her breadth of criminal law practice gives her the insight to give clients the right advice, and support for whatever decision the client makes. Michele is trusted by her colleagues to handle cases for them as her own when they have scheduling conflicts.

Michele is trained and experienced as a family and civil mediator. She routinely volunteers as a mediator for the judiciary in housing and harassment court, and for the community in a variety of settings. Even if you do not hire Michele as your mediator, she can bring a meditative approach to your case or conflict.