Veteran Defense Attorney Advocates for Preparation, Discipline, and Equal Access to Justice
TRAVERSE CITY, MI, NY / ACCESS Newswire / October 10, 2025 / Patrick S. Fragel, a criminal defense attorney with over 25 years of courtroom experience, is raising awareness about the importance of fairness and preparation in Michigan's criminal justice system. A U.S. Army veteran and former prosecutor, Fragel has seen both sides of the courtroom and says it's time for communities to better understand how the system impacts everyday people.
"Being in the Army taught me how to stay calm under pressure," Fragel said. "That skill has carried into my work as a defense attorney. But preparation is the real difference-maker. Every defendant deserves a lawyer who takes their case seriously from day one."
The Need for Fairness in Criminal Defense
Michigan courts process thousands of criminal cases each year. According to the Michigan Department of Corrections, nearly 35,000 people are incarcerated in the state, while tens of thousands more are on probation or parole. Fragel points out that many of these individuals entered the system without strong defense strategies or a fair chance to fight their charges.
"When you sit on the prosecutor's side, you see how much leverage the state has," Fragel explained. "I decided I wanted to use my experience to balance that scale. Justice isn't just about punishment-it's about fairness."
Advocating for Preparation and Community Awareness
Fragel believes that the key to navigating the justice system-whether as a lawyer, defendant, or family member-is preparation. He urges people to learn their rights, seek proper legal counsel, and understand the stakes when facing criminal charges.
"You can't control every detail, but you can control your preparation," Fragel said. "If you're ready, you can handle whatever comes your way."
Statistics reinforce his point: studies show that defendants with experienced legal representation are significantly more likely to avoid jail time or achieve reduced charges compared to those without adequate defense.
Balancing Mental and Physical Discipline
Fragel also stresses the importance of stamina-both mental and physical-when navigating long trials and high-stakes decisions. Outside of the courtroom, he maintains discipline through running and weightlifting, having participated in the Marquette Half-Marathon and other community races.
"Running clears my mind. Lifting keeps me sharp," he said. "That balance helps me bring my best to the courtroom."
A Call to Action for Michigan Communities
Fragel's message goes beyond his own practice. He encourages Michigan residents to take action by:
Learning their rights under state and federal law.
Supporting community education programs that teach legal literacy.
Advocating for fairness in local courts and policymaking.
Encouraging young professionals to consider careers in criminal defense, where the need remains high.
"Every case matters to someone," Fragel emphasized. "That's why it's critical for people to stay informed, ask questions, and make sure fairness isn't lost in the process."
To read the full interview, visit the website here.
About Patrick S. Fragel
Patrick S. Fragel is a criminal defense attorney based in Traverse City, Michigan. A U.S. Army veteran and former prosecutor, he has over 25 years of experience defending clients across the state. He is the founder of Patrick S. Fragel, Attorney at Law, P.C., and is recognized as one of Michigan's leading defense attorneys, with numerous acquittals and "not guilty" verdicts.
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SOURCE: Patrick Fragel
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