Michigan Dog Bite Lawyers | Dog Bite Attorneys

Michael J. Morse is a personal injury attorney with offices located in Southfield (Oakland County) and Warren ( Macomb County), Michigan. He began his education at the University of Arizona where he earned a Bachelors of Science in business. He graduated with honors in 1989, and then earned a Juris Doctor Degree Cum Laude from the University Of Detroit School Of Law, emphasizing his studies on automobile, motorcycle, and truck accident insurance claims.

From 1992 through 1995 Mr. Morse was employed with a medium sized personal injury law firm. Then, in September of 1995 he opened his own firm and today proudly employs a staff of 44 including twelve attorneys. Michael Morse, P.C. is now one of the largest firms in Michigan specializing in automobile, truck and motorcycle cases. 99% of the cases we handle have to do with either first or third party Michigan No-fault claims. We also handle some catastrophic construction accident cases, significant dog bit cases and will help our clients with social security matters.

Mr. Morse frequently lectures on automobile claims throughout the State. He is an executive board member of the Michigan Association for Justice and a respected member of the State Bar of Michigan and the American Association for Justice. In addition to serving as legal counsel to his clients, Mr. Morse also serves as a case evaluator and arbitrator in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.

Since September of 2005, Mr. Morse has been serving as an adjunct professor at University of Detroit-Mercy School of Law where he teaches Law Practice Management to students who consistently give him rave reviews.

Most recently, Mr. Morse has also authored a book, "Litigating Neck and Back Injuries" by James Publishing.

Governor Jennifer Granholm appointed Michael J. Morse to the Michigan Chiropractic Board for a 4 year term. Mr. Morse was appointed by the chairperson of the Chiropractic Board to be the Chairperson of the Disciplinary Sub-committee which oversees the discipline procedure for chiropractors in the State of Michigan.

Michael Morse is an expert in litigating both first and third party No Fault cases.  He lectures throughout the country to various groups on a variety of topics including the subject of paperless technology.  His interest in this topic combined with his passion to “go green” were instrumental in making his own office paperless. Mr. Morse has received many awards and accolades including 2009 Crain’s Cool Places to Work in Tough Times, 2009 Top Lawyer, 2009 21st Century Innovator and 2009 Leader in The Law.

John graduated with a degree in Finance from Miami University and earned his MBA from the University of Michigan. Prior to joining our firm in September 2008, John held a variety of sales and marketing leadership positions in the automotive industry. In his free time, John enjoys spending time with his wife, Melissa, and their four children. John has volunteered his time as a coach of many youth sports teams over the years.

Laurie Sackett has worked in the legal profession for over 30 years. She first joined the firm as Michael Morse's assistant in 2000. Since then, she has helped Michael cultivate and grow one of the most successful and growing firms in the state. A dedicated individual, Laurie helps push the firm to new heights with a highly detailed and organized drive for success. Laurie diligently watches over the "family" that she has helped this budding firm become. She and her husband are avid golfers and enjoy traveling.

We are big believers in first impressions! Jami’s voice is the first you’ll hear when you call our offices.  Since joining our team in October of 2005, she makes each and every caller feel welcome. Clients and other visitors appreciate being greeted by Jami’s big smile and non-stop enthusiasm.  It is truly a pleasure to have her here to welcome you. Come by to say hi!

Marc J. Mendelson graduated from Michigan State University in 1987 with a degree in General Business Administration. He then went on to law school where he graduated Magna Cum Laude from the prestigious Detroit College of Law in 1994 with a Juris Doctor Degree. After that, Mr. Mendelson worked for a large business firm and then for State Farm Insurance Company, where he was employed as an attorney. After several years of working for the insurance industry, he decided to become an advocate for injury victims, instead of helping insurance companies defend these lawsuits.

Heather graduated Magna Cum Laude from Oakland University then attended Wayne State University Law School. She graduated Cum Laude from WSU in 2006 and passed the bar examination a few months later. Heather worked for Liberty Mutual Insurance Company for 3 years before joining our firm. Her main focus is to handle first and third party automobile, truck and motorcycle cases. Her hobbies include boating on the east side at North Channel Yacht Club, knee boarding, wave running, snowmobiling, tennis, and traveling. Heather is a member of Golden Key Honor Society and Vice President of Sigma Tau Delta, the International English Honor Society.

Eric M. Simpson has been dedicated to protecting the rights of the seriously injured and their families for his entire legal career. He graduated from Michigan State University in 1993 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Arts. He then graduated Cum Laude from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 1997 with his Juris Doctor. Not only is Eric a licensed member of The State Bar of Michigan, but also The North Carolina State Bar and The State Bar of Texas. He has practiced law in many different States and throughout the State of Michigan. He has extensive knowledge of the Michigan No-Fault Laws and numerous other areas of Michigan Personal Injury Law. In his free time, he loves spending time with his wife and children, golfing, fishing and MSU athletics.

Scott McFarland graduated from Ferris State University with a B.S. in Criminal Justice Administration and shortly thereafter began working as a Trooper with the Michigan Department of State Police. He graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law in 2005 and practiced insurance defense for approximately two years before joining the firm of Michael Morse, P.C. Mr. McFarland specializes in automobile negligence, personal injury protection benefits and premises liability claims. In his free time, Scott enjoys spending time with his wife, Karla, and dog, Rugby. He also enjoys power lifting, baseball, college football, fishing and rugby.

Joel R. Safir is an attorney, who recently joined the Michael Morse P.C. Family. In 1996, Joel graduated from the University of Michigan, with an emphasis in philosophy. That same year, he began law school at the Case Western University School of Law in Cleveland, Ohio. While at Case, he was a member of the Jonathan M. Ault Mock Trial Team. As such, he represented his school in the ATLA National Mock Trial Competition in the spring, 1999.

After graduation from law school, Joel spent nearly nine years practicing insurance defense litigation. In so doing, he tried numerous cases for insurance companies and their insureds. Joel is licensed in Michigan, Ohio, the United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan and the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio. He is now a proud member of the MAJ. Since coming to Michael Morse P.C., Joel has exclusively practiced personal injury litigation.

In his spare time, Joel enjoys traveling, reading and University of Michigan football. Go Blue!

Donald J. Cummings graduated from Truman State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. While at Truman, he was on the varsity wrestling team and was selected to be a member of the Academic All-American Wrestling Team. After Truman, Mr. Cummings attended the University of South Carolina School of Law. He graduated with honors and was chosen to be a member of the Order of the Wig and Robe and the Order of the Coif. Mr. Cummings has decided to become a trial lawyer and dedicated himself to helping injured victims. In his free time, he enjoys Italian and French food and wine, spending time with his wife, Kelly, and Boxer dog, Nola, and going rock and ice climbing, canyoneering, mountaineering and backpacking.

Perry is originally from West Branch, Michigan. He attended Michigan State University where he earned a Bachelors of Fine Arts. He graduated with honors in 1992, and then earned a Juris Doctor Degree from Wayne State University. During Law School he began clerking for the Hon. Alice L. Gilbert at the Oakland County Circuit Court. He retained that position for the next few years while finishing law school and studying for the bar. As an attorney, he spent the next 11 years working in real estate, focusing on residential transactions and property management. Perry recently brought his communication and negotiation skills to the Pre-Suit Department of Michael Morse P.C., where he works with new clients to manage, develop, and resolve their claims prior to litigation. In his free time, Perry enjoys working in his yard, home improvement projects, antiquing, reading, video games, and spending time with his family and their dogs.

Matthew R. Bates is a recent addition to the State Bar of Michigan and the Michael J. Morse P.C. family. In 2005, Matt graduated cum laude from Western Michigan University with a B.A. in public law and philosophy. Following graduation, Matt enrolled at Wayne State University Law School. While at Wayne State, he served as the Law School Representative on the University Student Council and the President of the Student Bar Association Board of Governors. In recognition of his leadership in these positions, Matt was awarded the Campus Life Leadership Award for Outstanding Graduate/Professional Student Leader. Additionally, Matt was also a member of the Student Trial Advocacy Program where he and his partner won the Donald Barris Mock Trial Competition. After graduating from Law School in 2008, Matt was elected Secretary to the Board of Directors for the Wayne State Law Alumni Association. Since joining the Michael J. Morse, P.C., Matt has worked in the areas of personal injury litigation and social security disability. In his free time, Matt enjoys reading, sports, and spending time with friends and family.

Robert S. Silverman graduated with High Distinction from the University of Michigan, obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology in 1992. He earned his Juris Doctor Degree Magna Cum Laude from The Detroit College of Law in 1995. While a law student, Robert was on Law Review and was a published author in The Detroit College of Law Review. He is currently licensed in Michigan, New York, and the Federal District Court, Eastern District of Michigan. At the beginning of his legal career, Robert represented local hospitals and physicians in medical malpractice litigation. Later, Robert worked for State Farm Insurance for 10 years, defending personal injury lawsuits. Today, Robert enjoys representing the victims of personal injury accidents. While concentrating his practice in no-fault insurance, automobile negligence, slip and falls, and dog bite claims, Robert litigates any personal injury claims including watercraft negligence, snowmobile negligence, and construction liability. As a 1992 U.S. Olympic Team candidate for ten meter tower diving, 17 time U.S. National Championships competitor, and N.C.A.A. Division I All-America, Robert still enjoys athletics with his wife and children. You will find him water skiing and wake boarding in the summers, snowmobiling in the winter, and swimming and diving year round.

Brett graduated from Michigan State University with Honors earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Pre-Law from the Eli Broad School of Business. He then went on to earn a Juris Doctor degree from Wayne State University in May 2009. While in law school, Brett clerked for the Honorable Denis R. Leduc at the 42nd District Court in Macomb County. After completing his clerkship, Brett joined the Law Offices of Michael J. Morse, P.C in 2007 where he has dedicated himself to assisting victims of automobile, motorcycle and trucking accidents. Brett’s knowledge in the area of Michigan’s complicated no-fault law allows him to provide each client with a comprehensive understanding of the benefits of which they are entitled. In his spare time, Brett enjoys reading, watching MSU sports and high school football, traveling and spending time with his family and friends.

In 2005, Jake Yeater graduated cum laude from the University of Findlay, where he attained bachelor degrees in Law and Liberal Arts and Criminal Justice. That fall, he attended Thomas M. Cooley School of Law where he later graduated in the top 5% of his class, cum laude. While a law student, Jake participated in Law Review as the Scholarly Writing Editor, Law Journal, Moot Court, and Mock Trial. He was also awarded the Eugene Krasicky Award for his significant contributions to the publication of the Law Review.

Before coming to the Law Offices of Michael J. Morse, P.C., Jake spent several years clerking for several Michigan law firms where he primarily assisted in the areas of premises liability, bankruptcy, and criminal law. Presently, Jake works in the areas of automobile negligence, premises liability, and social security disability. In his free time, he enjoys going to concerts, reading, working out, and spending time with family and friends.

Jan Rosenberg attended Michigan State University and transferred to Oakland University to obtain paralegal certification. She worked for a large defense law firm for 20 years handling a wide variety of personal injury cases including medical malpractice, slip and falls, birth injuries and toxic torts.  In 2003 she began her career at Michael Morse, P.C. and has since worked with hundreds of auto accident victims with a goal of obtaining all compensation they are entitled to. In addition to working as a paralegal, Jan works as a new business and marketing liaison for the firm. She’s often out and about meeting clients and other attorneys who need our expertise and services. She spends her free time with her family and friends. Jan is an annual participant in Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure and in the winter month’s volunteers to prepare and serve meals at local homeless shelters. Other hobbies include reading, exercise, biking and knitting.

Thanai Pope is originally from Michigan and attended University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. She later transferred to Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA, where she received a Bachelors of Fine Arts in photography and worked as an editorial photographer and editor in Los Angeles. She recently returned to Michigan and completed Oakland Community College's paralegal certification program in 2006. Thanai began working for Michael Morse, P.C. as a paralegal intern, and upon completion of her internship was hired to work full time as a paralegal and writer.

When Jennifer started working at Michael J. Morse, P.C. in March of 2004, she worked as a receptionist and file clerk. Since that time, she graduated Magna Cum Laude from Macomb Community College with her paralegal certification. She was promoted to a paralegal position in 2005, and is now a valuable member of our pre-litigation team. Jennifer married her husband, Marc, in September of 2006. They spend their free time enjoying the outdoors. In 2009, Jen was an official delegate for the title of Mrs. Michigan United States.

Prior to working at Michael Morse, P.C., Jami,e was employed as a receptionist/legal assistant for a small law firm working with an emphasis in family law and real estate matters. In 2005, Jami,e began working with us as a paralegal and earned her Certification from Macomb Community College. Jamie works with our clients to help them obtain No-fault benefits from their insurance companies.  Whenever she’s not at work, Jami,e enjoys line dancing, and just having fun with her friends.

Maria is a graduate of Western International High School in Detroit. She went on to earn her degree at Henry Ford Community College in Paralegal studies. Maria is enrolled to attend Eastern Michigan University where she will obtain her bachelors degree in Paralegal studies. Maria grew up and still resides in Southwest Detroit. Maria is active in activities such as softball, swimming, volleyball and weight training. She is bilingual, speaking both Spanish and English. We are very excited to have Maria working at Michael Morse, P.C.

Stephanie Byrd graduated from Grand Valley State University in 2004 with a degree in legal studies. She went on to attend Seton Hall University of Law. Prior to working at Michael J. Morse P.C. she was employed as a paralegal at a firm that primarily handles collections and subrogation. In her spare time Stephanie enjoys traveling, bike riding and boating.

Julie Rashid joined our team as a Paralegal in 2009. She graduated from Ball State University and is currently attending Oakland University. Prior to joining Michael J. Morse P.C., Julie worked in the retail and IT industries, volunteered, and has lived in Sweden, Canada, India and Turkey. In her spare time, Julie enjoys spending time with family and friends, volunteering, and traveling. Julie's teenage son, Zack, keeps her busy with all of his exciting activities including water polo and swimming.

Lisa graduated from Eastern Michigan University in 2006 with an English degree. Currently, she is attending Oakland Community College, where she will acquire a Post-Bachelor Paralegal Certificate. Lisa grew up in Port Huron, Michigan and now resides in Northville. She enjoys reading, playing with her cats, and spending time with friends and family.

Kate Rotan attended Western Michigan University and Oakland University, where she obtained her bachelor's degree in 2008. She then returned to Oakland University to pursue her paralegal certification. Kate works with our clients to help them obtain their No-Fault benefits from insurance companies. In her spare time, Kate is an avid reader and expresses her adventurous side by enjoying SCUBA diving, kayaking, and boating. She is also an animal lover with several pets of her own.

Valerie joined our firm in early 2006. She has been a legal secretary for over 10 years in the area of workers compensation, medical malpractice, and now automobile negligence cases. She is the mother of two boys, Devin and Aiden. Her hobbies include spending time with her family, traveling, yoga, running and skiing.

Kelly has been working in the legal field for 18 years. She spent the beginning years of her career in the field working on bankruptcy and domestic cases, but has spent the past 14 years concentrating on Plaintiff’s personal injury. Outside of the office, Kelly enjoys working in the garden doing landscaping and spending time with her family.

Cassandra Sharkey joins our firm with a can-do attitude and a passion for law. Cassandra has worked in the legal field for the past 13 years providing support to several lawyers. She believes that every wall has a door that can be opened for a potential client and that it is vital to achieve results. She prides herself in being available to our clients to open those doors to achieve their desired results. Born in Pontiac, Michigan, Cassandra attended Pontiac Central High School where she soon drew on her dedication for hard work and sports. This helped her achieve several of her goals including participating and finishing two marathons in 2008; qualifying for the Boston Marathon. She enjoys spending her free time with her three children.

Michelle Jennings joined our firm in April 2009 as a Legal Secretary and quickly settled into the daily detailed work in our Litigation Department. After graduating with academic honors from Oakland University with a Bachelors Degree in Journalism in 2007, Michelle held a prominent position with a sales and motivational speaker. Shortly thereafter, she enrolled in Oakland University’s Paralegal Program to supplement her degree and landed a position with our firm. When Michelle isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her husband Tom and their dog Xavier, reading, being outdoors and relaxing with friends and family.

Lynn Ostrowski joined our firm in July 2009 as the Legal Assistant to Marc Mendelson with nearly 20 years experience in the legal profession. Lynn has worked for some of the most well respected and experienced automobile negligence attorneys in Michigan, whose knowledge and experience only furthered her skills, qualifications and professionalism. Lynn and her husband Don are avid boaters, and also enjoy their many warm Caribbean travels.

Julie Baaki has worked in the legal field since 2001. She earned an Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts from Oakland Community College and subsequently her Paralegal Certificate from Oakland University with a specialty in litigation. When she’s not working, Julie enjoys traveling with her family and seeing new places.

Kari came to us from Philadelphia where she started her career in 1995 with the Montgomery County District Attorney's Office. Kari has worked as a legal secretary/paralegal for fourteen years in areas such as criminal, family, product liability and premises liability. Outside of the office, Kari enjoys working outside, playing softball, golf, and spending time with family, friends, and her two dogs.

Shawn graduated from Albion College in 2009 with a degree in English and is currently pursuing her paralegal certification. She joined the firm in September 2009 and is working in the pre-suit department assisting our team of attorneys and paralegals. In her spare time Shawn enjoys drawing, movies, reading, and spending time with her loved ones.

Claire Gunton graduated Summa Cum Laude from Albion College in 2009 with a degree in Economics and Management. In 2007, she spent a semester living and working in New York City for a music supervision company in the film industry. She joined the MJM family in October 2009 as a legal assistant to Kate Rotan. Outside of work she enjoys watching movies, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.

Rhonda began joined our in the summer of 2009. She will continue her education to become a paralegal and is currently working as an assistant in our pre-suit department. In her free time, Rhonda enjoys reading, writing, and scrapbooking.

Lauren Perry graduated from Albion College in May of 2009 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and Theatre. She just recently finished a marketing internship with Hour Media, and joined the Michael J. Morse, P.C. family in October of 2009 as a paralegal assistant for the pre-litigation team. Outside of work, Lauren is an avid reader and enjoys writing, taking road trips, and spending time with family and friends.

After graduating high school in 2001, Tiffany moved to Kalamazoo, MI where she worked as the Supervisor of a wine and kitchen shop located inside the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suits during which she attended Kalamazoo Valley Community College. After residing in the Kalamazoo area for just over two years she then moved to Chicago where she worked for the Westin Hotel & Suits. Now residing in the Oakland County area, Tiffany joined the Michael J. Morse, P.C. team in April of 2009 as a receptionist and since then has join our pre-litigation team assisting the paralegals. Currently Tiffany is attending Oakland Community College and working towards her Associates in the Paralegal program.

Jennifer graduated from the University of Michigan-Dearborn with a B.A. in Psychology. She worked in the auto injury field for approximately 15 years as an adjuster and case manager before pursuing a law degree at Wayne State University where she is President of the student chapter of the Health Law Society. In her free time, Jennifer enjoys tennis and spending time with her husband and two children.

Paul is the legal clerk to attorneys Eric Simpson and Robert Silverman. He earned his Bachelor degree from the University of Michigan in 2002 and just recently graduated Magna Cum laude from Thomas M. Cooley Law School; he will take the bar exam in February. In his free time, Paul enjoys spending time with his wife and 2 children, playing paintball, riding his motorcycle, and playing poker.

Since joining MJM, P.C. in 2007, Wesley has become an integral part of our firm. Responsible for mailing our important documents, assisting with IT, and all scanning and paperless aspects, Wesley has contributed significantly in helping us go green. A huge fan of sports and music, Wes is an avid hockey player and plays drums for 3 bands.

Austin is a senior at South Lyon High School and works at Michael Morse, P.C. assisting with copying and filing duties.

After many years of bookkeeping experience in the construction industry, Michele welcomed the opportunity to broaden her horizons by becoming our bookkeeper. Michele has been with us since August 2008 and is an integral part of our team. Now that her sons are grown she has more time to dedicate to furthering her education by attending Macomb Community College.

Brian graduated from ComputerTraining.edu in March of 2009 with an MCP in Microsoft Systems. He provides on site Desktop support for both of our offices. Brian works diligently assisting with our ongoing efforts to be 100% paperless. He has also been a Junior Trainer at ComputerTraining.edu helping the next group of students achieve their IT goals.