J. Joseph Purtell

J. Joseph Purtell is a Bay City, Michigan, partner attorney who advises individuals and businesses on bankruptcy, real estate, and creditor-debtor matters. His practice also covers foreclosures, lien law, landlord-tenant disputes, wills, and trusts. He helps clients understand financial obligations, protect property interests, address collection concerns, and develop practical strategies for transactions, disputes, and long-term planning. His work often requires balancing legal rights with the financial realities surrounding property, debt, and family assets.

Purtell earned his J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School in 1978. He received a B.A. magna cum laude in Economics from Michigan State University in 1975. His academic honors included membership in the Honors College, Phi Beta Kappa, Omicron Delta Epsilon, and Sigma Delta Pi. His education supports careful analysis of commercial, financial, property, and estate planning concerns.

Purtell served as a member of the US Bankruptcy Trustee Panel from 1983 through 1985. This experience strengthened his understanding of bankruptcy administration, creditor claims, debtor responsibilities, and the management of estate assets. He also taught Real Estate Law, Bankruptcy Law, and Civil Litigation as an adjunct professor at Delta College from 1993 through 2004. His teaching experience reflects a strong ability to explain complicated legal rules in clear, practical terms.

J. Joseph Purtell has presented educational programs on bankruptcy, foreclosures, landlord-tenant law, commercial transactions, and the Uniform Commercial Code. His community leadership has included service with the Bay City Downtown Development Authority and the Downtown Management Board. He combines extensive legal experience with practical teaching and public service. His approach helps clients evaluate options, anticipate risks, and make informed decisions about financial, property, and planning matters.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Birchler, Fitzhugh, Purtell & Brissette, PLC
• Member, State Bar of Michigan

Licensed State

• Michigan

Education

• University of Michigan Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Michigan State University
  BA in Economics, Magna Cum Laude

Awards & Badges