Phillip D. Comorski

Phillip Comorski is an appellate attorney with decades of experience representing individuals in criminal appeals and post-conviction matters in the Michigan courts. He is a devoted advocate for the underprivileged and for people who have been wrongly convicted or otherwise improperly treated by the criminal justice system. Tireless in his commitment to righting wrongs, Mr. Comorski fights for his clients every step of the way, never giving up, even when the odds are stacked against them.

Because many of his clients have already been sentenced to years of prison time, Mr. Comorski takes his responsibility as an advocate very seriously, always putting clients first. He spends time getting to know his clients, working closely with them to prepare a defense strategy that is tailored to their specific needs and the circumstances of their case. He keeps his clients and their families well informed of the status of their appeal and is always responsive and accessible.

Methodical in his approach to preparing an appeal, Mr. Comorski will scour the trial record for potential errors and provide an honest assessment of a client’s chances on appeal. He is able to analyze and understand subtle legal distinctions, conduct careful and focused research, and provide persuasive written and oral presentations to a knowledgeable and sophisticated appellate court. Skilled at appellate argument, Mr. Comorski brings a mastery of the facts and law every time he enters the courtroom to argue and appeal.

Mr. Comorski has prevailed on numerous cases in the Court of Appeals, including cases granting new trials based on new evidence, juror misconduct, improper searches, habeas corpus relief (for unlawful detention or imprisonment), and conviction integrity. He is well-versed on appellate procedure, applicable standards of review, and the expectations and preferences of Michigan appellate judges.

When not working Phil enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. He is also passionate about music and is an accomplished guitarist.

Bar Admissions

• Michigan

Education

• J.D. cum laude, Detroit College of Law (1992)
• B.A., University of Michigan (1987)

Practice Areas

• Criminal Appeals
• Post-Conviction Motions

Representative Cases

• Foster v. Wolfenbarger, 687 F.3d 702 (CA6 2012) - second-degree murder conviction overturned because trial attorney failed to raise alibi defense.
• Hodgson v. Warren, 622 F.3d 591 (CA6 2011) - attempted murder conviction overturned because trial attorney failed to call eyewitness to testify.
• People v Shepard, 465 Mich 920 (2001) (CDAM) - Supreme Court of Michigan confirms that defendant was denied effective assistance of counsel.