Hon. Hon. Mark D Jernigan, Criminal Defense Attorney in Houghton Lake, Michigan

Mark concentrates on criminal defense, family law, general, probate, and real estate. Each area below outlines the kind of case Mark handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

  View other Criminal Defense attorneys

• Family Law

  View other Family Law attorneys

• General

  View other General attorneys

• Probate

  View other Probate attorneys

• Real Estate

  View other Real Estate attorneys

• Estate Planning

  View other Estate Planning attorneys

Mark's primary office is at 6525 W. Houghton Lake Dr., Houghton Lake, MI, 48629. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Mark usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Mark discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Mark for a criminal defense case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Mark walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Mark offer a free consultation?

  Mark charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Mark's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Mark's current terms during booking.

• How long do criminal defense cases in Michigan typically take?

  Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Mark gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Mark take my case if I'm outside Houghton Lake?

  Mark is licensed in Michigan. Matters governed by Michigan law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Mark will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Mark?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Mark will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Mark accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

  Mark's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.