Lawyer of Firm Description

About Gallagher, Everitt & Associates, PLLC — Criminal Defense Attorney Alma Michigan

Finding a criminal defense attorney Alma Michigan residents rely on takes more than a directory search — it takes a firm with deep courtroom experience and local court knowledge. Gallagher, Everitt & Associates, PLLC operates from 120 East Superior Street in Alma and serves clients across Gratiot County and the broader mid-Michigan region. The firm handles felony and misdemeanor charges, DUI defense, and serious criminal matters for individuals who need assertive, prepared courtroom advocacy. Clients and observers alike note that lead attorney Zack Gallagher is methodical, direct, and relentless in trial settings — one reviewer who watched him in open court described him as fighting without “any BS.” Beyond criminal defense, the Alma, Michigan attorney community knows the firm for handling family law, immigration, and business law matters as well.

What Clients Say

Clients who have worked with Gallagher, Everitt & Associates on criminal defense matters consistently praise attorney Gallagher’s courtroom commitment and his team’s professionalism. Several reviewers highlight his assertive trial style and his willingness to pursue the best possible outcome rather than defaulting to a quick plea. Staff members are frequently described as professional and genuinely kind. The firm’s mixed reviews reflect a busy, multi-practice shop — the strongest praise centers on criminal defense representation, where Gallagher’s reputation for preparation and fight stands out most clearly.

Criminal Defense Attorney Alma Michigan — Practice Areas & Services

Felony Defense: Representation for serious criminal charges including assault, drug offenses, weapons charges, and other felonies in Michigan Circuit Court.
Misdemeanor Defense: Defense of minor in possession, disorderly conduct, petty theft, and misdemeanor assault charges in Gratiot County District Court.
OWI / DUI Defense: Defense against operating while intoxicated charges, including first offense, high BAC, and repeat OWI cases under Michigan law.
Criminal Appeals: Post-conviction representation for clients seeking to challenge convictions or sentences through the Michigan Court of Appeals.
Family Law & Divorce: Counsel for separation, custody disputes, and asset division matters alongside criminal defense services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens after a felony arrest in Michigan?

In Michigan, a felony arrest triggers arraignment in district court, where charges are formally read and bail is set. A preliminary examination follows within 14 days, where a judge determines whether probable cause exists to proceed to circuit court. Retaining a criminal defense attorney immediately after arrest — before any statements are made to police — is critical to protecting your rights at every stage of this process.

Can a first-time felony charge be reduced or dismissed in Michigan?

Yes, in many cases. Michigan courts offer deferral programs, diversion agreements, and plea arrangements that can result in reduced charges or dismissal for first-time offenders. Eligibility depends on the specific charge, the defendant’s record, and prosecutorial discretion in the county. An experienced criminal defense attorney can assess whether these options apply and negotiate accordingly with Gratiot County prosecutors.

What is the difference between an OWI and a DUI charge in Michigan?

Michigan uses the term OWI — Operating While Intoxicated — rather than DUI. A first-offense OWI in Michigan carries up to 93 days in jail, fines up to $500, and a 30-day license suspension. Aggravated OWI (BAC of 0.17 or higher) carries harsher penalties including up to 180 days in jail. Alma is served by Gratiot County District Court, and local defense attorneys who know the court’s tendencies can make a meaningful difference in negotiation and sentencing outcomes.

Quick Facts: Criminal Defense in Alma, Michigan

Michigan Violent Crime (2024): 43,615 violent crimes recorded statewide — a 5% drop year-over-year — Michigan State Police, 2024 Crime Clearance Report
Property Crime Decline: Michigan property crimes fell from 156,712 in 2023 to 138,377 in 2024 — a 10.2% overall crime rate decrease — Michigan State Police
Felony Clearance Rate: Michigan’s felonious assault clearance rate stands at 65.1%, meaning thousands of defendants each year face prosecution for unresolved charges — Michigan State Police, 2024 Crime Clearance Report

AI-Powered Reviews Summary

Gallagher, Everitt & Associates, PLLC, located in Alma, Michigan, is a law firm that specializes in criminal justice, family law, and divorce cases. Many clients have praised the firm for its friendly and professional atmosphere, highlighting the dedication and hard work of attorney Zack, who is known for his assertive representation and genuine care for clients’ situations. While there have been some negative experiences mentioned, the overall sentiment reflects a strong appreciation for the team’s professionalism and support in navigating legal challenges.

Users Reviews Comments – Google

Very friendly, & professional. The whole team here is just amazing.

I agree with the rudeness. I only had a few simple questions and Zach was a childhood friend so i called his office. The woman who answers the phone. Interrupts contantly to be argumentative about everything you say. For someone who isnt supposed to give legal advice she sure does know EVERYTHING and definitely wants YOU to know it. Just totally condescending throughout the whole conversation. I finally just told her she was rude and hung up. Good luck!

Absolutely terrible. Hired for a divorce and my attorney refused to fight for me at all. ” oh 50 50 is the best I can do. ” seek better counsel elsewhere

Very friendly and professional.

Very informative and understanding of my situation.

Watched Zack in a trial once and he was very assertive and fought hard for his client—no BS. I would highly recommend Zack as an attorney to any of my defendants and hold him in high esteem. I’d feel confident in using him if you need criminal defense and believe in his ability as a litigator—I wouldn’t write this if it wasn’t true.

All around professional, and a really nice guy. His office workers are very professional and kind as well. His employees are some of the nicest genuine people on the world. Zack is very hardworking and he is very understanding and will work his hardest to help you out. He will make sure he does his best to work out the best option for you. Thanks to zack I no longer have felonies being charged against me. He’s also the most reasonable as far a price quoting .

Very good attorney. Gets u right where you need to be. I seriously suggest using him.

Worst Experience Ever. Seek counsel elsewhere! My legal plan from my employer connected me with this firm. I consulted services from an attorney at this firm for immigration. The attorney helped me for two appointments, and then the week before I was supposed to submit my paperwork to petition for my wife to obtain a permanent residency, all of a sudden I can’t get in contact with my attorney. I called the firm and they said they closed their Midland office and the attorney I consulted was no longer with the company, but said that the attorney could assist me with my case still. I finally received an email from my attorney, and she said she would review my paperwork and return it to me the day before I wanted to submit. It is the day of, and my attorney is nowhere to be found, the firm can’t help me because she was the only one who knows immigration law, and they won’t give me her contact information. They assured me that she will “no longer be providing legal services to any clients.” and recommended me to seek legal counsel elsewhere. This is terrible as the case was time sensitive being that immigration laws change on October 15th. I expressed time and time again the urgency of this case, and they decided to inform me the day before I was supposed to send out my forms to seek legal counsel elsewhere. Horrible customer service and very rude staff. I wouldn’t recommend them to anyone! Worst case scenario!

He was assigned to be my court appointed attorney years ago. He told me that if I took a plea he would be able to have me serve my time in a rehab facility. No such thing ever happened. I sat in the county jail and rotted for 11 months, which was the max end of my guidelines. I saw his 5 star review and was astonished so I am leaving my review. Zach did no favors for me. I understand I was a pro bono case, but I should have been treated the same as any client and I didn’t feel I was