Mikayla S. Hamilton is a tenacious and detail-oriented legal advocate with a passion for justice. She brings a wealth of litigation experience in police practices, Title IX issues, and criminal defense. Her expertise extends to defending individuals and corporations in state and federal court, including cases involving white-collar crimes, felony firearms and drug cases, and high-stakes criminal investigations. She has successfully tried several federal jury trials, argued before the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals, and assisted clients in avoiding prosecution.
Mikayla’s diverse experiences and unique perspective as a former Assistant Corporation Counsel defending Chicago Police Officers and the City of Chicago in civil rights suits has helped her successfully navigate numerous high-stakes legal challenges. She has represented police officers in civil rights matters, internal investigations, and criminal charges—developing an expertise in police training, excessive force, qualified immunity, and other police-related claims. Mikayla has also represented students and educational institutions in matters related to sexual harassment, assault, and discrimination, and she offers a compassionate and effective voice for clients navigating the complexities of Title IX proceedings.
Mikayla is known for her tireless work ethic and unyielding dedication to achieving justice. She is not afraid to challenge powerful institutions, confront entrenched practices, and vigorously fight for the rights of those who have experienced injustice. Her courtroom presence is marked by a resolute determination and an ability to stand firm in the face of adversity, leaving no stone unturned.
Beyond her legal practice, Mikayla is actively involved in legal education and community outreach. She is a sought-after speaker on issues related to police practices, contributing to the broader conversation on reforming law enforcement practices.
Awards
National Trial Lawyers – Top 40 Under 40
Grand Rapids Magazine – Top Lawyers Award, Criminal Defense
Avvo Clients’ Choice Award
Michigan Lawyers Weekly Up and Coming Lawyers
Recognized as Super Lawyers Rising Star
Speaking Engagements
PORAC LDF Keynote Speaker
Americans for Effective Law Enforcement, Guest Presenter at Expert Witness Symposium
MSP Tri-Annual Meeting, Keynote Speaker
Grand Rapids Police Department (GRPD) New Recruit Training
PORAC LDF / Axon AI Training and Roundtable Policy Discussions
Professional Affiliations
Michigan Supreme Court Model Jury Instruction Committee
Women’s White Collar Defense Association
Women Lawyers Association of Michigan
Michigan Asian Pacific American Bar Association
Michigan Bar Association
Chicago Bar Association
National Asian Pacific American Bar Association
Korean American Bar Association
Federal Bar Association, West Michigan
AV Preeminent®: The highest peer rating standard. This rating signifies a large number of the lawyer’s peers rank him
or her at the highest level of professional excellence for their legal knowledge, communication skills and ethical standards.
Distinguished: An excellent rating for a lawyer with some experience. This rating indicates the attorney is widely
respected by their peers for high professional achievement and ethical standards.
Notable: This rating indicates that the lawyer has been recognized by a large number of their peers for strong ethical standards.
