Lawyers in the Public Interest

According to cliché, there are two kinds of lawyers.

The kind people make jokes about. And the kind they make movies about.

Lawyers who sell their services to the powerful. And lawyers who fight the powerful on behalf of ordinary people.

Abraham Lincoln (himself a lawyer) defined democracy as government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Yet, even in a democracy, powerful organizations can act contrary to the interests of individuals or communities. Which is why, for 38 years, we have been a public interest law firm.

We believe clean air, clean water, the existence of wilderness, and the preservation of family farms are in the public interest.

We believe standing up for individual rights is in the public interest.

We believe supporting local government, and holding it accountable, are in the public interest.

When you work for your ideals you work harder.

We’ve been working for ours since 1972.

ABOUT

RECENT NEWS

Firm Members Celebrate 25 Years Together in the Law

Jim Olson, Doreen Schramski, and Ruth Ann Liebziet first began working together 25 years ago. The firm is both incredibly appreciative of their outstanding service, and was happy to celebrate this special anniversary together.

See a photo here.

Wind Power is Good for Michigan

Wind power is good for Michigan's economy. 24 renewable energy projects have been built here, by Michigan workers. ... Other Great Lakes states have increased their renewable energy standards beyond 10 percent. We can lead with them, or lag behind.

Shouldn't we lead?

Read Chris Bzdok's Forum piece at the Traverse City Record-Eagle.

Jeffrey L. Jocks Becomes Partner

We are proud to announce that Jeffrey L. Jocks is a shareholder and partner with our firm.

Jeff has been with our firm since 2004 and specializes in environmental law, local government, water law, real property, and estate planning.

Learn more about Jeff here.

Firm Recognized as a "Bicycle Friendly Business"

The League of American Bicyclists has recognized the long-standing, active promotion of cycling within business culture as practiced by Olson, Bzdok & Howard for many years, and has designated the firm as a bicycle-friendly business at the League's "Silver Level".