When charged with drug possession, the legal stakes can feel overwhelming. Michigan law enforces strict penalties for drug-related crimes, including fines, probation, and even imprisonment.
Finding a skilled attorney is essential to protect your rights, minimize penalties, and achieve a favorable outcome.
Detroit, Michigan, boasts a selection of experienced attorneys who specialize in drug possession cases. These legal professionals understand the complexities of Michigan’s criminal justice system and are dedicated to providing strong defense strategies.
This article introduces you to the top 10 drug possession attorneys in Detroit, outlining their expertise and why they stand out.
Top Drug Possession Attorneys in Detroit In 2025
Take a quick look at the overview of drug possession attorneys in Detroit, Michigan:
| Sr. No. | Attorney Name | Experience | Specialty |
| 1 | Scott Grabel | 20+ Years | Criminal Defense |
| 2 | David J. Kramer | 25+ Years | Drug Possession Defense |
| 3 | Michael J. Boyle | 15 Years | Expungements |
| 4 | Patrick Barone | 30+ Years | Felony Defense |
| 5 | Nicole Blank Becker | 20+ Years | Drug Crimes |
| 6 | Ari Kresch | 25+ Years | Drug Crimes and White-Collar Defense |
| 7 | Christopher Kessel | 10+ Years | Drug Possession and DUI Defense |
| 8 | Colleen M. Fitzharris | 15 Years | Drug Possession and Family Law |
| 9 | Mark Satawa | 20 years | Federal Drug Possession Cases |
| 10 | Shawn Patrick Smith | 15+ years | Drug Possession and Domestic Violence Defense |
1. Scott Grabel – Grabel & Associates
Scott Grabel is a leading name in Michigan’s criminal defense landscape. As the founder of Grabel & Associates, he has dedicated his career to defending individuals facing criminal charges, including drug possession.
His firm is known for its comprehensive understanding of Michigan’s legal system and its aggressive defense strategies.
| Attribute | Details |
| Experience | Over 20 years |
| Office Location | Detroit, MI |
| Notable Achievements | Secured numerous case dismissals and reduced charges |
| Specialty | Criminal Defense and Drug-Related Charges |
| Contact | Grabel & Associates |
Why Choose Him?
- Proven Results: Scott Grabel has a track record of securing dismissals and reduced charges for his clients. His ability to dissect cases and find legal loopholes makes him a formidable defense attorney.
- Client-Centric Approach: He ensures that each client receives personalized attention, thoroughly explaining their legal options and potential outcomes.
- Wide Range of Expertise: Beyond drug possession, his firm handles cases involving felony drug charges, trafficking, and federal offenses.
2. David J. Kramer – The David J. Kramer Law Firm, PLLC
David J. Kramer has been serving Michigan residents for over 25 years, specializing in defending individuals against drug-related charges.
His deep knowledge of state and federal drug laws allows him to provide robust defenses for his clients.
| Attribute | Details |
| Experience | 25+ years |
| Office Location | Farmington Hills, MI (serving Detroit) |
| Notable Achievements | Successfully represented clients in high-profile drug cases |
| Specialty | Drug Possession and Criminal Defense |
| Contact | David J. Kramer Law |
Why Choose Him?
- Seasoned Expertise: With over two decades in practice, Kramer knows how to navigate even the most challenging legal scenarios.
- Notable Case Wins: He has successfully represented clients in high-profile cases, earning a reputation for being a tenacious litigator.
- Strong Negotiation Skills: Kramer is adept at negotiating favorable plea deals, often avoiding lengthy court trials for his clients.
3. Michael J. Boyle – Barone Defense Firm
Michael J. Boyle is a prominent name in Detroit for those seeking relief from criminal charges or looking to expunge their records.
With 15 years of experience, he has become a trusted advocate for clients wanting to move past their legal troubles.
| Attribute | Details |
| Experience | 15 years |
| Office Location | Detroit, MI |
| Notable Achievements | Expertise in minimizing penalties and securing record expungements |
| Specialty | Drug Possession and Expungements |
| Contact | Barone Firm |
Why Choose Him?
- Focus on Expungement: Boyle is well-versed in Michigan’s expungement laws, helping clients clear their criminal records and start anew.
- Strategic Defense: He is skilled at finding weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, often leading to dropped or reduced charges.
- Empathetic Representation: Boyle takes the time to understand each client’s unique circumstances, ensuring a tailored legal strategy.
4. Patrick Barone – Barone Defense Firm
Patrick Barone is one of Michigan’s most respected criminal defense attorneys. His firm, the Barone Defense Firm, is synonymous with excellence in defending felony drug charges.
Barone’s expertise extends to cases involving large-scale drug operations and serious penalties.
| Attribute | Details |
| Experience | 30+ years |
| Office Location | Birmingham, MI (serving Detroit) |
| Notable Achievements | Consistently recognized as a top attorney in Michigan |
| Specialty | Felony Drug Possession Defense |
| Contact | Barone Defense |
Why Choose Him?
- Decades of Experience: With over 30 years in practice, Barone brings unparalleled experience to the courtroom.
- Recognition and Awards: He is consistently recognized as one of Michigan’s top criminal defense attorneys.
- Aggressive Representation: Barone’s assertive courtroom style ensures that his clients’ rights are vigorously defended.
5. Nicole Blank Becker – Blank Law, PC
Nicole Blank Becker has over 20 years of legal experience, including time spent as a prosecutor.
Her unique background gives her an insider’s understanding of how prosecutors build their cases, allowing her to craft highly effective defense strategies.
| Attribute | Details |
| Experience | 20 years |
| Office Location | Detroit, MI |
| Notable Achievements | Extensive experience in drug-related defense cases |
| Specialty | Drug Crimes and White-Collar Defense |
| Contact | Blank Law, PC |
Why Choose Her?
- Prosecutorial Insight: Becker’s experience as a former prosecutor gives her a distinct advantage in predicting and countering the opposition’s strategies.
- Compassionate Advocacy: She is deeply committed to helping clients rebuild their lives after facing criminal charges.
- Comprehensive Defense Services: Becker handles a variety of drug-related cases, including possession, trafficking, and prescription drug crimes.
6. Ari Kresch – 1-800-LAW-FIRM
Ari Kresch leads 1-800-LAW-FIRM, a highly reputable legal group known for its innovative approach to defending clients facing drug possession charges.
His team of attorneys works tirelessly to protect clients’ rights and ensure fair treatment under the law.
| Attribute | Details |
| Experience | 25+ years |
| Office Location | Southfield, MI (serving Detroit) |
| Notable Achievements | Renowned for innovative legal tactics |
| Specialty | Drug Possession and Civil Rights Defense |
| Contact | 1-800-LAW-FIRM |
Why Choose Him?
- Holistic Defense Strategies: Kresch takes a comprehensive approach to legal defense, addressing all aspects of a case, including procedural errors by law enforcement.
- Accessible Legal Services: With his firm’s robust infrastructure, clients benefit from 24/7 legal support and detailed case evaluations.
- Commitment to Justice: Kresch is passionate about civil rights and frequently defends clients against unjust charges or overreach by law enforcement.
7. Christopher David Kessel
Christopher Kessel is a trusted name in Detroit for handling complex drug possession cases. With a sharp focus on detail.
He has successfully defended numerous clients against severe drug charges.
| Attribute | Details |
| Experience | 10+ years |
| Office Location | Detroit, MI |
| Notable Achievements | High success rate in drug possession trials |
| Specialty | Drug Possession and DUI Defense |
| Contact | Avvo |
Why Choose Him?
- Meticulous Case Analysis: Kessel’s attention to detail ensures that no procedural error or piece of evidence is overlooked.
- Courtroom Expertise: Known for his persuasive arguments, Kessel has an impressive record in both state and federal courts.
- Client Advocacy: He provides compassionate representation, ensuring clients feel supported throughout the legal process.
8. Colleen M. Fitzharris – Fitzharris Law
Colleen Fitzharris brings a unique perspective to her practice, combining her expertise in criminal defense and family law to assist clients dealing with complex legal situations.
| Attribute | Details |
| Experience | 15 years |
| Office Location | Detroit, MI |
| Notable Achievements | Skilled in plea negotiations and alternative sentencing |
| Specialty | Drug Possession and Family Law |
| Contact | Fitzharris Law |
Why Choose Her?
- Multi-Disciplinary Expertise: Fitzharris understands how drug possession charges can impact other areas of life, such as custody or employment, and offers holistic advice.
- Alternative Sentencing Expertise: She has experience negotiating alternative sentencing options, such as diversion programs or rehabilitation.
- Compassionate Representation: Fitzharris is known for her supportive approach, helping clients navigate the emotional challenges of facing drug charges.
9. Mark Satawa – Satawa Law, PLLC
Mark Satawa specializes in defending clients facing serious drug charges at the federal level.
His expertise in high-stakes cases has earned him a reputation as one of Detroit’s top defense attorneys.
| Attribute | Details |
| Experience | 20 years |
| Office Location | Southfield, MI (serving Detroit) |
| Notable Achievements | Successfully defended clients in federal courts |
| Specialty | Federal Drug Possession Cases |
| Contact | Satawa Law |
Why Choose Him?
- Federal Court Expertise: Satawa’s familiarity with federal courts and their procedures makes him an excellent choice for clients facing federal drug charges.
- Customized Legal Strategies: He tailors his defense to each client’s unique circumstances, increasing the likelihood of favorable outcomes.
- Extensive Trial Experience: Satawa is a skilled litigator with a proven record of success in challenging prosecutions.
10. Shawn Patrick Smith – Shawn The Law
Shawn Patrick Smith leads Smith Blythe, PC, a firm known for its dedication to criminal defense. Smith is highly regarded for his ability to challenge evidence and secure favorable outcomes in drug possession cases.
| Attribute | Details |
| Experience | 15+ years |
| Office Location | Detroit, MI |
| Notable Achievements | Expertise in challenging evidence and police procedures |
| Specialty | Drug Possession and Domestic Violence Defense |
| Contact | Shawn The Law |
Why Choose Him?
- Focus on Evidence Suppression: Smith excels at identifying and challenging improperly obtained evidence, often resulting in reduced or dismissed charges.
- Strategic Negotiator: He has a proven track record of securing plea deals that minimize penalties for his clients.
- Commitment to Justice: Smith’s dedication to upholding his clients’ rights makes him a top choice for those facing serious legal challenges.
Takeaway
Selecting the right attorney is a critical decision that can greatly influence the outcome of a drug possession case.
The attorneys listed here have proven track records, specialized expertise, and a commitment to defending their clients’ rights.
Whether you prioritize courtroom experience, negotiation skills, or a compassionate approach, these attorneys in Detroit offer the best legal representation available.
