Criminal Defense
When serious charges threaten your future, you deserve more than an ordinary lawyer. You deserve a seasoned trial attorney who knows the law, understands Northern Michigan juries and provides the kind of meticulous, high‑caliber defense ordinarily reserved for the most demanding cases. True North Legal Group delivers tailored, premium criminal defense for select clients in Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties.
Why Choose True North Legal Group?
Our founder, Josh Traeger, brings elite trial experience, a service‑driven mindset and deep local roots.
- 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.
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.
Misdemeanor Representation
Grand Traverse & Leelanau Counties
ContactFelony Representation
Grand Traverse & Leelanau Counties
ContactTotal Cost of Legal Services: $10,000
- Initial retainer of $2,500 (non-refundable once work begins)
- Additional payment of $2,500 after pretrial conference (negotiation and plea deal advocacy)
- Final payment of $5,000 due three weeks prior to trial
Representation includes all legal matters through District Court sentencing.
Total Cost of Legal Services: $30,000
- Initial retainer of $5,000 (non-refundable once work begins)
- Additional payment of $5,000 after preliminary examination (pretrial advocacy and negotiations)
- Additional payment of $10,000 after pretrial conference (extensive investigation, legal motions work, and strategic planning)
- Final payment of $10,000 due three weeks prior to trial
Representation includes all legal matters through Circuit Court sentencing.
Appellate representation also offered to select clients.
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.