About
Joseph C. Fisher has built a long legal career serving clients across northern Michigan in a wide range of matters. His practice includes civil litigation, criminal defense, family law, real estate, and business-related legal issues. Since beginning his legal career in 1974, he has worked with individuals and businesses facing complex disputes and important legal decisions. His practical approach focuses on understanding client goals and providing guidance tailored to each situation.
Joseph earned a B.A. from Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan. He later received his Juris Doctor from Detroit College of Law in Detroit, Michigan. His educational background provided the foundation for a career that has spanned decades and involved extensive work in both criminal and civil matters. He was admitted to the Michigan Bar in 1974 and also gained admission to the U.S. Federal Court in the same year.
Joseph has extensive experience handling litigation matters and has spent more than three decades working within the criminal justice system. Over the years, he has tried numerous cases to verdict and developed strong courtroom skills through direct advocacy. His work involves helping clients navigate legal challenges while explaining their options and potential outcomes. This experience allows him to provide informed advice throughout every stage of the legal process.
Joseph also focuses a significant portion of his practice on family law and domestic relations matters. He assists clients with routine and complex divorces, custody and parenting time disputes, child support matters, paternity cases, change of domicile issues, and personal protection orders. His work also includes pre and post-nuptial agreements, cohabitation agreements, post-judgment matters, and dissolution of relationship cases. He seeks practical solutions while protecting the interests of those he represents.
Joseph C. Fisher has emphasized collaboration and open communication with clients. He works toward early and reasonable resolutions whenever possible while remaining prepared to advocate strongly when disputes require litigation. In addition to his legal practice, he has served in leadership and community roles, including involvement with Northwest Education Services, the Grand Traverse – Leelanau – Antrim Bar Association, and the Elk Rapids Harbor Commission. His decades of experience continue to benefit clients seeking knowledgeable legal representation.
Law Office Affiliations
- Partner, Alward Fisher
- Member, State Bar of Michigan
- Member, Grand Traverse Leelanau Antrim Bar Association
Licensed State
- Michigan
Education
- Detroit College of Law
Juris Doctor (JD) - Michigan State University
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Awards & Badges


- Creditor Debtor Rights
- Gun Law
- Assault & Battery
- Driver's License Suspension
- Drug Crime
- DUI & DWI
- Violent Crime
- White Collar Crime
- Probate
- Trusts
- Wills & Living Wills
- Adoption
- Alimony
- Child Custody
- Child Support
- Divorce & Separation
- Domestic Violence
- Guardianship
- Marriage & Prenuptial Agreements
- Military Divorce
- Paternity
- Construction & Development
- Landlord & Tenant
- Property Disputes
- Litigation
- Military Law




