Family Law

• Divorce
  A plaintiff who wishes to begin an action for divorce must file with the court a summons and complaint and in many counties a record of divorce or annulment. Learn more about family law and divorce.
• Child Custody and Visitation
  The plaintiff may seek ex parte relief at the time the complaint for divorce is filed to request temporary child custody and support, a restraining order, or other relief. The request may be made in the verified complaint or by separate affidavit and must provide specific facts showing the court that delay or notice of the action will lead to irreparable injury or loss. Personal protection orders against domestic violence are available in a separate action if there has been violence in the relationship or a threat of violence.
• Spousal Support
  The Friend of the Court becomes involved in divorce matters when there are disputes about minor children or spousal support. Although the scope of the Friend of the Court’s role in cases varies from county to county, generally that office investigates and makes recommendations to the court and the parties regarding such disputed issues.
• Annulment
  A plaintiff who wishes to begin an action for divorce must file with the court a summons and complaint and in many counties a record of divorce or annulment. A filing fee is also required The complaint must allege the breakdown of the marriage as required by statute and must also state that one of the parties has resided in Michigan for at least 180 days and the county of filing for at least 10 days immediately before the complaint was filed. The summons and complaint must be served or receipt acknowledged by the defendant. If there is a child or if child or spousal support is requested, the plaintiff must also serve the defendant and the Friend of the Court with a verified statement. When the parties have minor children, either the complaint or an attached affidavit must include information regarding other custody proceedings required by statute. In some counties, additional fees are required at filing; in others, when judgment is entered.

Criminal Law

• Criminal Defense
  Christopher’s area of focus has primarily been litigation including criminal defense work, family law, juvenile law and divorce. Christopher has litigated both jury and bench trials.
• DUI/DWI
  The laws surrounding drunk driving charges have become more and more serious. In recent years, the State Of Michigan changed the legal limit to.08 and the likelihood of jail time has been increased. Additionally, fines and costs owed to the court have been increased. And for the first time ever, there is now a requirement that large fines be paid to the Secretary of State when convicted of a drunk driving case. There is also the possibility that your driving privileges may be suspended or revoked. Our law firm takes a very aggressive approach for all types of drunk driving cases, such as operating while intoxicated (OWI), operating under the influence of liquor (OUIL), UBAL, and OUID. Amongst our highly trained legal staff we have breathalyzer and blood testing experts to help with the discovery process, we also have qualified expert counselors to deal with issues related to drunk driving cases. We have a dedicated staff of private investigators to handle any investigative issues. Don’t let yourself be abused by the newest drunk driving laws. Hire an expert trial lawyer to defend your rights and provide you with an aggressive defense in your case.
• Traffic Violations
  If you have been charged with a crime under state or federal law, whether a misdemeanor or felony, a traffic violation or drug offense, the Burnett & Kastran Law Firm can assist you with the defense of your rights and liberties. Our attorneys are experienced in assisting clients in navigating their way through the criminal justice system, which can often be a very scary and bewildering process
• Misdemeanors
  If you have been charged with a crime under state or federal law, whether a misdemeanor or felony, a traffic violation or drug offense, the Burnett & Kastran Law Firm can assist you with the defense of your rights and liberties. Learn more about traffic offenses and criminal law.
• Juvenile Crimes
• Restraining Order

Employment Law

• Workers Compensation
  Jim's practice includes Trial Litigation both civil and criminal, including Personal Injury, Workers Compensation and other accident and disability-related causes of action.

Property Law

• Premises Liability
  In the law, the term “premises liability” refers to a situation where an individual is injured on property, or “premises” owned or maintained by someone else. The property owner or party responsible for maintaining the property may be held legally responsible, or “liable,” for that person’s injuries if the injuries were the result of a dangerous condition that existed on the property.

Health Law

• Personal Injury
  A personal injury occurs when a person has suffered some form of injury, either physical or psychological, as the result of an accident. Where an accident is the fault of another person, an accident victim is entitled to monetary compensation from the person whose negligent conduct caused the injury.
• Medical Malpractice
  Medical malpractice is an act or omission by a health care provider which deviates from the standard of care and which causes injury to the patient. Medical errors cause up to 98,000 deaths annually.
• Auto Accidents
• Dog Bites
  An attack by a dog can be a very traumatic event that may cause psychological harm. The most common dog bite injuries are punctures and lacerations, which may result in serious scarring. Dog bites can also lead to dangerous infections and fractures.

Trusts and Estates

• Estate Planning
  There are many factors to consider when selecting the estate plan that is most appropriate for the individuals needs. Learn more about estate planning and drafting.
• Wills
  Steve handles general civil litigation including stray voltage claims, family law and domestic relation matters, wills and trusts and criminal defense.
• Trusts