Criminal Defense

• Elite trial experience. Josh has prosecuted or defended more than 200 criminal cases, including over 150 jury trials. A former Air Force Senior Trial Counsel and Trial Advocacy Fellow, he honed his courtroom skills through hundreds of hours of specialized training.
• Proven service and integrity. After law school, Josh spent ten years on active duty in the U.S. Air Force, earning multiple Meritorious Service Medals while handling some of the military’s most challenging cases. He returned home to Northern Michigan in 2024 to found True North Legal Group and serve his community.
• Client‑centered approach. Service, helping others and delivering world‑class advocacy are at the core of Josh’s identity. He believes every person is more than their worst moment and deserves a chance to rebuild.

Our Approach: Strategic, Thorough and Discreet

We intentionally accept a limited number of criminal cases so that every client receives personal attention and bespoke counsel. Our approach combines strategic advocacy with compassion and community insight:

• Thorough and methodical. We conduct a meticulous investigation, examine every detail and develop a comprehensive understanding of the facts and legal issues in your case.
• Strategic and relentless. We are unafraid of complex, high‑stakes matters. Josh’s military trial experience translates into confident courtroom advocacy and an unwavering drive to secure the best result.
• Locally focused. Because we serve only in Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties, we know the judges, prosecutors and jurors who will determine your fate. Our goal is not only to win your case but to help you return to your community on a path toward success.
• Compassionate and judgment‑free. We treat you as an individual, not a case file. We listen to your story, build trust and ensure that your perspective is heard.

Transparent Flat‑Fee Packages

Our flat‑fee structure provides certainty and allows us to focus on results rather than billable hours. These packages reflect the preparation and resources required for high‑quality defense. Payment plans are available to accommodate serious matters while maintaining premium service.

• Misdemeanor Representation (Grand Traverse & Leelanau Counties) – $10,000
  • Initial retainer of $2,500 (non‑refundable once work begins)
  • Comprehensive investigation and case analysis
  • Negotiation and plea‑deal advocacy (additional $2,500 due after pre-trial conference)
  • If the case proceeds to trial, an additional $5,000 is due before trial
  • Representation through sentencing
• Felony Representation (Grand Traverse & Leelanau Counties) – $30,000
  • Initial retainer of $5,000 (non‑refundable once work begins)
  • Extensive investigation, motions practice and strategic planning
  • Pre‑trial advocacy and negotiation (additional fees due at defined milestones)
  • Trial fee due in two installments (half before trial, half prior to the first day of trial)
  • Representation through sentencing

These flat fees cover our legal services through sentencing. Expenses such as expert witnesses, transcripts or travel are billed separately with your approval. Appeals, expungements and other post‑trial matters require separate agreements.

Discrete and Exclusive

Our practice is deliberately selective. By focusing exclusively on Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties and limiting our caseload, we ensure every client receives the highest level of attention and service. We deliver strategic, discreet counsel tailored to your circumstances—because when your future is on the line, nothing less will do.

Ready to Discuss Your Case?

We accept only a handful of clients at a time to maintain our uncompromising standards. Contact us to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how our focused defense can protect your rights and future