(810) 374-0240Michael Taylor
Criminal Defense Attorney | Former Federal Prosecutor | U.S. Marine Corps Veteran
When the Stakes Are Highest, Michael Taylor Steps In
For more than two decades, Michael Taylor has stood on the front lines of justice — first as a United States Marine, then as a state and federal prosecutor, and now as a dedicated criminal defense attorney. His mission has never changed: to protect the rights, dignity, and future of those he serves.
Michael’s career has taken him from deployments in the middle east to high-stakes trials in Michigan courtrooms and the U.S. District Court. Along the way, he’s earned a reputation as a meticulous, fearless, and ethical advocate who treats every case — and every client — with the same seriousness he brought to his military service.
When your freedom, reputation, or livelihood is on the line, Michael is the kind of lawyer you want in your corner: strategic, unflinching, and relentlessly prepared.
A Former Prosecutor Who Knows How the System Works
Before turning to defense, Michael spent years on the other side of the courtroom. As an Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan, he prosecuted some of the most complex federal cases involving drug trafficking and firearms offenses, organized crime, fraud, child exploitation, and human trafficking. He also handled constitutional challenges and appeals before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit — experience that gives him a deep understanding of how the government builds its cases and, more importantly, how to dismantle them.
Earlier in his career, Michael served as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in Livingston County, where he litigated challenges to toxicology findings, novel techniques in DNA analysis, child forensic interviewing, and false-confession expert testimony. Through winning countless trials, including homicides, criminal enterprises, sexual assault cases, theft, drug, and impaired driving cases, Michael developed a mastery of Michigan criminal procedure and evidentiary law.
That insider perspective now gives his clients a powerful advantage. Michael knows how prosecutors and police think, what evidence they rely on, and where they make mistakes. He uses that insight to build strong, strategic defenses for individuals facing serious criminal charges in both state and federal court.
A Marine’s Discipline. A Lawyer’s Precision.
Michael’s approach to defense work is shaped by his years of military service. As a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, forged an unwavering commitment to accomplishing his mission and protecting those in his care. The lessons he learned there — discipline, leadership, and never backing down — continue to guide his approach to defense work today. That same discipline, focus, and commitment to preparation define his work in the courtroom. Whether negotiating a favorable resolution or taking a case to trial, Michael’s clients quickly learn what judges and prosecutors already know: Michael Taylor is always the most prepared person in the room — and the one who never quits.
Education & Recognition
- Juris Doctor, magna cum laude, Western Michigan University – Thomas M. Cooley Law School
- Raymond Burr Award for Highest Achievement in Criminal Law
- Managing Editor, Thomas M. Cooley Law Review
- Inducted into the National Order of Scribes for excellence in legal writing
- Bachelor of Science, cum laude, Criminology and Criminal Justice, Eastern Michigan University
Beyond the Courtroom
Michael believes that justice doesn’t stop at the courthouse doors. He remains deeply involved in the community, supporting organizations like Toys for Tots, Habitat for Humanity, and the Special Olympics. He’s also organized local holiday programs providing meals and gifts for hundreds of Michigan families and at-risk youth.
These commitments reflect the same principles that guide his law practice: service, integrity, and compassion.
A Defender You Can Trust:
Michigan State Bar; Genesee County Bar Association; National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers; Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan; Michigan Trial Lawyers Association; National Trial Lawyers Association
Admissions:
For Michael Taylor, criminal defense isn’t just a job — it’s a continuation of a lifelong promise to serve others when the stakes are highest. He knows what it’s like to be under pressure, to face impossible odds, and to fight for something bigger than himself.
Today, he brings that same spirit to every client he defends.
When your freedom is at risk, you need an advocate who’s been on the other side, understands the battlefield, and knows how to win.
You need Michael Taylor.