Michael A. Rataj - a Detroit, United States Federal Crimes Defense Lawyer

Detroit Federal Crimes Defense Lawyer

Updated: 03/02/2026

Areas of Practice

Federal Crimes Defense

Attorney Information

Overview

My name is Michael A. Rataj, and I founded my Detroit law office in order to protect the futures of those charged with criminal offences in the Detroit metropolitan area, Wayne County and surrounding eastern Michigan. Because of my unique approach to criminal law, the residents of the Detroit area have turned to me for over 37 years as they face a range of criminal charges.

I began practicing law in 1989 after earning my law degree from what was then Detroit College of Law and my admission to the State Bar of Michigan. Since I began my legal career, I have earned a reputation for providing outstanding service to my clients. I was admitted in 2020 as a Fellow to the American Board of Criminal Lawyers. I have been voted by my peers as a Super Lawyer, and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel has designated me as a Top One Percent Lawyer. I have also been involved in numerous high-profile cases both in State and Federal Court. Having served in the United States Marine Corps, I bring a disciplined mindset, work ethic and attitude to the defense of those accused of crimes.

If you want an attorney who will treat you with respect and will provide aggressive representation, you can turn to the law firm of Michael A. Rataj, PC. I pride myself on treating all of my clients as if they were members of my family. This approach is unusual in criminal law, but it ensures that my clients receive the highest-quality representation that I can deliver. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of choosing my law firm, you can take advantage of my offer for a free initial consultation.

Awards and Honors

Super Lawyers® Selectees

Michael A. Rataj included in a Super Lawyers® list

Other Sources of Feedback About Michael A. Rataj

Included on the 2026 Michigan Super Lawyers list

Past Lists

2025 Michigan Super Lawyers list
2024 Michigan Super Lawyers list
2023 Michigan Super Lawyers list
2022 Michigan Super Lawyers list
2021 Michigan Super Lawyers list
2020 Michigan Super Lawyers list
2019 Michigan Super Lawyers list
2018 Michigan Super Lawyers list
2017 Michigan Super Lawyers list
2016 Michigan Super Lawyers list
2015 Michigan Super Lawyers list
2014 Michigan Super Lawyers list
2013 Michigan Super Lawyers list

Education

Legal Education
- Detroit College of Law, Detroit, Michigan, 1989
  J.D.
  Honors: magna cum laude
Non Legal Education
- Wayne State University, 1985
  B.S.B.A.

Current Employment Position(s)

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Sole Practitioner
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Past Positions

U.S. Marine Corps, 1980 - 1983

Bar Admissions

Michigan, 1989
U.S. District Court Eastern District of Michigan, 1989
U.S. Court of Appeals 6th Circuit, 1989
U.S. Supreme Court, 1989

Other Affiliations

State Bar of Michigan
National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan
Federal Bar Association
Super Lawyers 2013 - 2026
Admitted as a Fellow to the American Board of Criminal Lawyers

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Contact

Detroit, MI

500 Griswold Street
Suite 2450
Detroit, MI 48226

Directions

Phone: 313-512-6174

Fax: 313-963-9310

Email: Send a message

Website: https://www.michaelrataj.com

Free Consultations

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Michael A. Rataj - Detroit, MI