Business Details
31 Years
experience
Your Trusted Legal Partner in Manistee, MI
Established in 1995, our law office has dedicated itself to providing accessible, high-quality legal representation tailored to the unique needs of Manistee residents and visitors. With over 25 years of combined legal experience, we specialize in criminal defense, family law, real estate transactions, and estate planning while maintaining a strong commitment to community service. Our practice philosophy emphasizes personalized attention, transparent communication, and ethical representation, ensuring clients receive both legal expertise and compassionate support.We offer free initial consultations for criminal matters and maintain flexible pricing structures to ensure legal services remain accessible. Our team includes a certified paralegal with ABA-approved education, providing additional value through thorough case preparation and client support. Admitted to both Michigan state courts and the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians Tribal Court, we combine broad legal knowledge with deep local understanding to deliver practical solutions for complex legal challenges.
Services
Criminal Defense
Family Law
Estate Planning
Real Estate
Tribal Court
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- We offer free initial consultations for criminal matters
- Our team includes an ABA-certified paralegal with specialized training
- Admitted to practice in Michigan state courts and tribal court systems
- 25+ years of combined legal experience serving Manistee residents
- Personalized approach combining legal expertise with community understanding
What people say
Beyond knowledgeable
Kept me calm
Best possible attorney
Saved my home
Honest and accurate
Services
Criminal Defense
We provide aggressive legal representation for criminal charges including OWI, drug offenses, and assault. Our approach combines courtroom experience with strategic defense planning to protect clients' rights and minimize consequences. With admission to Michigan state courts and tribal systems, we handle cases ranging from misdemeanors to complex felony charges while maintaining open communication throughout the legal process.
Family Law
Our family law practice handles divorce, child custody, and support matters with sensitivity and practical guidance. We focus on achieving fair outcomes while minimizing emotional stress through negotiation or litigation when necessary. Services include prenuptial agreements, post-judgment modifications, and paternity cases, always prioritizing clients' long-term interests and family well-being.
Estate Planning
We create comprehensive estate plans including wills, trusts, and medical directives tailored to individual needs. Our planning considers tax implications, asset protection, and long-term care provisions to ensure clients' wishes are honored. We also handle probate proceedings for both testate and intestate estates, guiding families through the legal process with compassion and expertise.
Real Estate
Our real estate services cover purchase agreements, lease contracts, and title disputes. We assist with residential and commercial transactions, including closings and disclosure statements. With experience in quiet title actions and land use matters, we ensure legal compliance while protecting clients' property interests throughout the transaction process.
Tribal Court
Admitted to practice in the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians Tribal Court, we represent clients in tribal legal matters including criminal, civil, and family law cases. Our experience includes navigating unique jurisdictional considerations and cultural contexts to provide effective representation while respecting tribal sovereignty and legal frameworks.
People
Leslie E Van Alstine II
Attorney
Admitted to Michigan bar since 1995 with extensive experience in criminal defense, family law, and tribal court matters. Graduated from Thomas M. Cooley Law School after working in Michigan's court system, bringing practical legal knowledge to client representation.
Ellen M. Van Alstine
Paralegal
ABA-certified paralegal with specialized training from Lansing Community College. Provides critical case support while maintaining ethical boundaries, ensuring thorough document review and client assistance at affordable rates.
Andrea Shack
Legal Assistant
Joined the team in 2017, contributing to office operations and client communication. Supports the legal team with administrative expertise while maintaining the office's professional standards.
Questions
What legal services do you specialize in?
We specialize in criminal defense, family law, real estate transactions, estate planning, and tribal court representation.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes, we provide free initial consultations for criminal matters and charge $150 for other legal consultations.
Can you handle tribal court cases?
Yes, we are admitted to practice in the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians Tribal Court.
How quickly do you respond to client inquiries?
Our office promptly returns calls and provides timely responses to all client communications.
Do you serve clients outside Manistee?
While based in Manistee, we assist clients throughout Michigan and handle tribal court matters across relevant jurisdictions.
