Michel & Associates Law

I hired Michel & Associates to defend me. Days before trial I was pushed to plead on the promise of a 1-year CSO with no ankle monitor; in court I received two separate 2-year CSOs (one with a monitor). I asked immediately for an appeal/plea withdrawal citing coercion, misleading info, incomplete disclosure, and new evidence--nothing was filed and my emails on ineffective assistance went unanswered. At an early bail hearing I was asked for $1,000 cash "for court/retainer" despite being on Legal Aid. I paid and never received a receipt, trust confirmation, or accounting. Follow-through on basics was missing. A 2024-06-07 order required my property (truck) returned; months later it was still held. On 2024-09-06 I asked them to enforce the order--no steps I'm aware of. Communication was poor and appointments were repeatedly rescheduled. After sentencing the retainer ended with no written notice. I later learned the Crown contacted former counsel after they were off the record. I repeatedly requested my complete electronic client file; on 2025-10-01 I was told to pick up a box mostly containing materials I originally provided. My 2025-11-07 final demand still hasn't produced the file. I ultimately had to handle things myself; when probation proposed a "make it easier" variation, I opposed it and the court struck an earlier illegal variation. Based on my experience, I cannot recommend this firm. If you proceed, insist on written advice, receipts for any money, and firm timelines for disclosure and file transfer.

DON'T DO IT!!!!!!!!!! Worst experience of my life with any company or business. Regardless of the outcomeme of the case: 1. Made me feel like I was bothering them every time I had any questions. 2. The receptionist took my number down every time, about 15 or 20, leading me to think they just take cases in bulk. 3. Put me "on hold" for about a month. 4. Once sentencing was done it was different from what my understanding was. 5. When I called back to express dissatisfaction with not having been explained the whole process and fines, I got " it's the same amount, what does it matter?" From them. All this matters because I paid them my hard earned money and I don't care if it's a misspelling that I'm asking about, for that much money they shudve taken time to explain.

The woman working at the front desk is always very unhelpful and rude. I've called this place numerous times looking for a lawyer, and there is always a reason why they can't help and I'm quickly rushed off the phone and hung up on. She asked me to get additional information for the firm regarding a case, and when I did and called back, there was yet again a reason to not assist me. I've never even gotten the chance to speak with the lawyers because she will not let you. She also does not point you in any direction or provide any solutions or additional firms that can possibly help you. I've stopped calling this place because I've been turned away 3 or 4 times now, and I've been essentially laughed at and talked down to on the phone all while feeling vulnerable even looking for the help to begin with. This woman may be good at her job but she is certainly far from kind...

They've been fantastic to deal with so far, Denis has helped me out big time. Thanks again

In my personal experience, this firm has not demonstrated the level of understanding, competence, or professionalism I expect in family law matters. Family cases require precision, attention to facts, and genuine care for the people involved. Based on my interactions, I did not feel that this firm, or the lawyer who represented me, met those standards. My experience with Melissa Sullivan was deeply disappointing. I felt unheard, misrepresented, and unsupported throughout the process. In my view, she did not meaningfully engage with the facts of my case or advocate in a way that reflected the seriousness of the situation for me and my child. I was left feeling that important details were overlooked and that my position was not accurately or fairly communicated. I am exploring my options for addressing these concerns through the proper channels. This situation has had a real emotional impact on me as a parent. I believe my child deserved better representation, and I wish I had trusted my instincts earlier. The experience has shaken my confidence in this firm entirely. While my family has a long history with the Michels--including wills prepared for both my grandfather and father--my personal experiences with the firm have not been positive. I also still have unresolved concerns about past matters, which has only added to my dissatisfaction. At the end of the day, I cannot recommend this firm based on what I personally went through. I found the service to be inadequate, the communication lacking, and the overall experience discouraging. In my opinion: proceed with caution and consider other options for family law. With concern for criminal law and their ability to represent the innocent time will tell where they stand and on which side.