John Freeman

Bar / Professional Activity

• U.S. District Court, Southern District of Indiana, 2021
• Member, Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan, 2021
• Honoree, Who's Who in America, 2020
• American Society of Legal Advocates, Top 100, 2019
• American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys, 10 Best for Client Satisfaction in Michigan, 2019
• Speaker, Oakland County Bar Association, Youth Law Day, 2019
• Member, Critical Response Team, USCCA, 2020
• U.S. District Court Eastern District of Michigan
• Member, White Collar Crime Committee and Health Care Fraud Subcommittee, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• U.S. Court of Appeals 6th Circuit  
• Member, Wayne County Criminal Defense Bar Association
• Former Member, Legal Advisory Board, United States Concealed Carry Association
• State of New York
• Former Member, Criminal Law Advisory Board, ICLE, State Bar of Michigan
• Fellow, Oakland County Bar Association, 2021
• U.S. District Court Southern District of New York
• State of Michigan
• U.S. District Court Western District of Michigan
• Member, Inns of Court, Oakland County Bar Association, 2019
• U.S. District Court Western District of New York

Verdicts / Settlements (Case Results)

• CLIENT FACING OPERATING WHILE INTOXICATED PLEADS TO IMPAIRED DRIVING, SENTENCED TO FINES AND 10 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE – NO PROBATIONClient pulled over for speeding and was ultimately charged with Operating while Intoxicated.  After successful negotiations, including more than one letter to the City Attorney’s Office, the Prosecution offered our client a plea to Operating While Impaired, which carries lesser penalties than an Intoxicated charge.  At sentencing, Mr. Freeman successfully argued for a sentence of fines and costs and 10 hours of community service, without burdensome probation – no random testing, no travel restrictions, no counseling or treatment, and no reporting to a Probation Officer. , 2026
• CLIENT FACING FELONY AND 2 YEARS IN PRISON PLEADS TO DISORDERLY PERSON MISDEMEANOR, SENTENCED TO FINES AND 15 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE – NO PROBATIONFollowing an afternoon of day drinking at a local bar, client left the bar and was stopped by the police while walking down the sidewalk.  The police encounter escalated and our client was charged with felony resisting / obstructing / and assault on a police officer.  After obtaining medical records, body camera footage, and other relevant police reports and video, Mr. Freeman successfully negotiated a misdemeanor plea to disorderly conduct.  The Court sentenced our client immediately following the plea (which is uncommon in an alcohol related offense) to approximately $500.00 in fines and costs, and 15 hours of community service, without Probation., 2026
• Multi-Felony Narcotics & Resisting Case Ends in Probation and No JailFollowing an incident in 2024 where our client allegedly possessed narcotics and fled from and then fought with the police in Brownstown Township, MI, our client faced multiple felony charges that could have sent him to prison for up to 10 years.  Mr. Freeman successfully negotiated our client’s return from Florida to the 33rd District Court in Woodhaven, MI, where our client was released on bond.  Utilizing law enforcement’s own body camera footage, Mr. Freeman continued to negotiate and secured a resolution of 18 months of probation, including substance abuse treatment.  This allows our client to avoid any incarceration.     , 2026
• Domestic Felony Assault Reduced to Misdemeanor and Path to Non-Criminal ResolutionIn November 2025, our client was charged with felony assault for allegedly choking his domestic partner, which could have resulted in multiple years in prison.  Alcohol was a significant factor in the incident.  Following Mr. Freeman’s guidance and our client’s substantial efforts to achieve and maintain sobriety, Mr. Freeman successfully negotiated a misdemeanor resolution which paves the way for a non-criminal resolution of the charges upon successful completion of one year of probation., 2026
• Assault & Battery Allegations Dismissed Following Polygraph / Oakland County Personal Protection Order DismissedAfter false misdemeanor allegations of assault and battery were made to the Farmington Hills Police Department in the summer of 2025, our client faced Assault and Battery charges in the 47th District Court.  After Mr. Freeman’s detailed investigation, which included a favorable polygraph examination of our client, Prosecutors today dismissed all criminal charges against our client.  In December 2025, a corresponding Personal Protection Order was also dismissed in the Oakland County Circuit Court., 2026
• POLICE AND PROSECUTOR DROP INVESTIGATION INTO CRIMINAL SEXUAL CONDUCT OF A MINOR VICTIM WITHOUT CHARGES BEING FILEDAfter learning the police were investigating an allegation of Criminal Sexual Conduct involving a minor relative, our client hired Mr. Freeman to navigate the complicated landscape of false allegations of child sexual abuse.  After detailed interviews with our client and favorable polygraph (lie detector) results, Mr. Freeman and the investigating Detective in West Bloomfield, MI agreed our client would take a law enforcement polygraph.  After passing a second polygraph, the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office declined to file charges. Our client no longer lives in the shadow of a horrible allegation., 2026
• People v. Raymond Smith, Washtenaw Co. Circuit Court, Not Guilty after week-long jury trial in this Criminal Sexual Conduct case in which client was falsely accused of sexually assaulting a woman in his residence., 2025
• All felony charges dismissed following preliminary examination in Lansing District Court.  Client charged with multiple felony counts based on 2020 Presidential Election in this high-profile case that gained national attention., 2025
• People v. Edward Miller, Oakland County Circuit, motorist shoots at another motorist after road rage and being sprayed by pepper spray, favorable low-level plea deal without fine, probation, or incarceration., 2019
• U.S. v. Pinto-Coronado, WDMI, client engaged in conspiracy to "jackpot" ATM machines in multiple states, favorable plea deal, 2019
• People v. Zytell, Oakland County Circuit, client featured in Netflix series "DOPE" profiling local drug dealers, client pled guilty and sentenced to prison, 2019
• People v. Mann, 3rd Circuit, 2016
• People v. Khalaf, 3rd Circuit, 2016
• U.S. v. Todd, EDMI, 2016
• People v. McGee, 2017
• U.S. v. Rockafellow, EDMI, 2017
• People v. Hippaka, 2017
• People v. Derabandi, Carrying Concealed Weapon (Pistol) dismissed following Preliminary Examination, 2018
• People v. Clifford Bingham, University of Michigan researcher investigated and charged with child pornography.  Case resolved with a 90 day county jail sentence., 2018
• Detroit v. Jonathan Fatu, WWE star arrested and charged in Detroit.  Case resolved with a low-level misdemeanor and $450.00 fine., 2019

Videos

• Freeman explains how initial law enforcement actions, such as establishing psychological dominance and gathering evidence, can significantly influence the outcome of a case. He emphasizes the importance of not making statements without legal counsel and outlines how strategic decisions during this period can affect bond hearings and evidence collection. Freeman also shares insights from his time as a prosecutor, highlighting the psychological impact of incarceration on defendants and the tactics used by law enforcement to secure confessions. This episode provides listeners with valuable knowledge on the legal processes and strategic considerations that can shape the trajectory of a criminal case., The First 48 Hours After a Serious Arrest in Michigan, Criminal Defense, 2026
• Attorney John Freeman shares his experiences transitioning from a federal prosecutor to a defense attorney in Michigan. He discusses the significant differences he encountered in the pace of prosecution, bail practices, and decision-making processes between the state and federal systems. John also highlights the importance of having legal representation early in the process and the strategic advantages of understanding how prosecutors build their cases., From Federal Prosecutor to Criminal Defense Attorney: What I Learned on Both Sides of the Courtroom, Criminal Defense, 2026
• Attorney John Freeman delves into the intricacies of internet sting operations and solicitation charges. He explains how individuals can unknowingly get caught in these operations, the various scenarios that unfold, and what triggers an arrest. John also discusses the legal aspects of securing a conviction in such cases and offers valuable insights on handling investigations and arrests effectively., What to Do If You’re Caught in an Internet Sting Operation: Solicitation Charges, Internet Stings, Criminal Defense, 2026
• John explains the importance of examining every detail early on, the role of strategic investigations, and how body cam footage can turn a case around. He also highlights the nuances of federal sentencing advocacy and the importance of humanizing clients in court. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of criminal defense and the strategies that can lead to successful outcomes., Recent Criminal Case Outcomes in Michigan: What Actually Drives Results, Criminal Defense, 2026
• John explains the factors that determine whether a case is handled at the state or federal level, emphasizing the impact of funding, criminal history, and the type of weapon involved. The discussion highlights the severe penalties in federal court, particularly in cases involving crimes of violence or narcotics. John provides insights into how possession is proven and the challenges faced in cases where firearms are involved in other alleged crimes. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the legal landscape of firearms charges and the critical differences between state and federal prosecutions., Firearms Charges in Michigan: State vs. Federal Consequences, Firearms Charges, Criminal Defense, 2026
• John explains the unique challenges posed by the paper-intensive nature of these investigations and the importance of establishing malicious intent. The discussion covers the initiation of investigations, often triggered by audits or whistleblowers, and the emotional toll on those under scrutiny. John also highlights the significance of federal involvement and the strategic steps individuals should take when they become subjects of such investigations. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the complexities of white collar crime and the critical role of legal counsel in navigating these cases., White Collar Crime Investigations: Fraud, Embezzlement, and Financial Charges, White Collar Criminal Defense, 2026
• They explore the stages of grand jury investigations, focusing on the roles of witnesses, subjects, and targets, and the power dynamics involved. Freeman shares insights from his extensive experience, detailing how prosecutors use grand juries to build cases through subpoenas and witness testimonies. He also discusses the strategic decisions individuals must make when they receive a grand jury subpoena, emphasizing the importance of legal counsel. The episode provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the grand jury system and practical advice for those who may find themselves involved in such investigations., Grand Jury Investigations: What Targets and Witnesses Should Know, Criminal Defense, 2026

Representative Clients

• People v. Antwan Coleman, Genesee County, client charged with Criminal Sexual Conduct First Degree, Charges reduced to CSC 3rd Degree at Preliminary Examination, Charges ultimately dismissed by Prosecutor during negotiations in Circuit Court, 2021
• Tyler Freeman, Michigan National Guard member arrested in "To Catch a Predator" type sting, press case, on-going, client scheduled to plead to a high-court misdemeanor, 2021
• U.S. v. Johnathan Marcum, FFL dealer under federal investigation in Indiana for unlawful acquisition of machine guns.  Co-conspirator is local chief of police.  Client pled guilty.  Sentence pending, 2021
• People v. Ian Wilson, Air Force member charged with multiple sexual assaults in Michigan, client allegedly fled from duty station in Nevada and apprehended in Washington State attempting to cross into Canada; press case; pending, 2021
• People v. Smiles, Isabella Co. Michigan, university student charged with murder in college town, on-going, 2020
• People v. Jacob Peltz, Wayne County, client charged with solicitation to commit sodomy, press case, felony dismissed after preliminary examination, pending, 2020
• DiLisio Contracting, paving company with city contracts extorted by corrupt Troy, Michigan City Manager, cooperated with federal law enforcement leading to indictment and prison sentence of Brian Kischnick; represented the company in connection with the investigation and collateral issues related to continued paving contracts with the City of Troy.  Press case.  , 2019
• Michael Zeidler, University of Michigan researcher, accused of production of child pronography using hidden cameras inside Ann Arbor residencce, press case, 2019
• Alpha BioEnergy, Bio-Diesel company principal pleads guility to federal tax fraud, EDMI, sentence pending, 2019
• Matthew Dimitrie, Local Business Person accussed of producing child sexually abusive material in state court, press case, 2019
• Seth Swanson, MSP Trooper charged with Embezzlement, 2016
• Ryan Zytell, featued on Netflix series "DOPE", 2019
• Clifford Bingham, University of Michigan Researcher, 2017
• Vivek Loomba, MD, Henry Ford Hospital, 2018
• Jonathan Fatu, WWE Tag-Team Champion charged in Detroit, 2019

Special Licenses / Certifications

• NRA certified firearms instructor and range safety officer, 2008

Pro bono / Community Service

• Chairman of the Oakland County Bar Criminal Law Committee. The Criminal Law Committee is charged with the advancement of the criminal law system in both district and circuit courts from both the defense and prosecutorial perspectives. If your practice area includes criminal law, join the committee to network with yours peers and stay up to date on relevant issues in criminal law practice., 2026
• Named Vice-Chair Oakland County Bar Association Criminal Law Committee, 2025
• Member, Federalist Society
• Member, NRA Business Alliance
• Member and Participating Attorney, Armed Citizens Legal Defense Network
• Patriot Life Member, National Rifle Association
• Member, Second Amendment Foundation
• Member, Michigan Coalition of Responsible Gun Owners
• Member, National Shooting Sports Foundation

Educational Background

• Calvin College, B.A. in History and Political Science, 1990

Scholarly Lectures / Writings

• Speaker, Inns of Court, Oakland County Bar Association, Presenter, Legal, 2018
• Speaker, Speaker, Presenter, Oakland County American Inns of Court, 2019
• Panelist, State Bar of Michigan, Institute Of Continuing Legal Education, 2016
• Speaker, United States Concealed Carry Association, Firearms, 2017
• Comprehensive training on the Law of Self-Defense for armed citizens., Instructor, Law of Self-Defense, Self Defense, 2020
• State Bar of Michigan, Contributor, Presenter, and Moderator, Institute of Continuing Legal Education

Honors

• Independently selected, Top Lawyer, Criminal Defense, DBusiness Magazine, 2021
• Independently selected for inclusion. Established in 1898, Marquis Who’s Who promptly began publishing biographical data in 1899. Since then, Marquis has remained the standard for reliable and comprehensive biographical data., Honoree, Marquis Who's Who in America, 2021
• Top 100, Top 100, American Society of Legal Advocates, 2019
• Excellence in Criminal Law, Member, Lawyers of Distinction, 2020
• Top 100, Top 100, American Society of Legal Advocates, 2019
• Senior Member, Member, Oakland County American Inns of Court, 2019
• American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys, 10 Best for Client Satisfaction in Michigan, 10 Best Client Satisfaction, 2019
• National Trial Lawyers, Top 100, Top 100 Michigan, National Trial Lawyers, 2020
• One of the best in Michigan, Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Michigan, National Trial Lawyers, 2018
• Highest rating by AVVO., Top Lawyer, 10.0 Rating, AVVO, 2020
• American Jurisprudence Award in Trial Practice and Advocacy, Temple University School of Law, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 1993
• Victor A. Jaczun Award in Trial Advocacy, Temple University School of Law, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 1993
• Lynne M. Abraham Award in Criminal Law and Professional Responsibility, Temple University School of Law, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 1993
• Dr. Earl Strikwerda Memorial Hist. Scholarship, Academic Achievement Award, Calvin College, Grand Rapids, Michigan, Calvin College, 1988

Industry Groups

• Firearms & Self-Defense
• Fish and Wildlife
• General Criminal
• Hunting and Fishing Defense
• Sex Crimes
• White Collar Crime

“John is the kind of lawyer who will fight for his clients no matter who he is going up against. John's experience as a former federal prosecutor gives him a special advantage over many other criminal defense attorneys: he understands how the system works, sometimes better than the opposing prosecutor. This advantage has made the difference between a favorable outcome and an unfavorable outcome for many clients.”