Michael D. Elkin

Michael D. Elkin is a seasoned trial attorney recognized for his courtroom excellence, sharp legal strategy, and unwavering advocacy in high-conflict Criminal Defense and Family Law litigation. Holding both a Juris Doctor and a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.), Mr. Elkin brings over a decade of sophisticated legal and financial analysis to complex legal disputes. Whether defending individuals against serious criminal charges or guiding families through high-stakes divorces and custody battles, Mr. Elkin is known for cutting through emotional chaos to establish the clearest path forward. He operates on a philosophy of intelligent, ethical, and relentlessly client-centered representation—combining rigorous preparation with strategic trial execution to protect his clients’ immediate freedom and long-term well-being.

Educator, Leader, and Community Advocate

Prior to practicing law, Mr. Elkin worked as an educator, a foundation that continues to drive his passion for mentorship and clear client communication. Beyond his trial work, he frequently served as a legal commentator across major news networks and radio programs, providing commentary on high-profile legal developments. In the community, he mentors at-risk youth in underserved neighborhoods and has held key leadership positions, including Vice President of his local synagogue.

Experience Overview & Practice Areas

Mr. Elkin concentrates his practice in high-conflict criminal defense, matrimonial, and family law litigation. He handles complex trial matters in state and federal courts, balancing aggressive courtroom advocacy with practical, results-oriented solutions.

Criminal Defense

• Felony & Misdemeanor Trial Defense
• Domestic Violence Allegations & Violent Crimes
• White Collar Crimes & Drug Offenses
• DWI/DUI Defense & Sex Offense Litigation
• Grand Jury Proceedings & Pre-Arrest Representation
• Post-Conviction Relief & Orders of Protection

Family & Matrimonial Law

• Contested Divorce & Matrimonial Litigation
• Child Custody, Visitation & Interstate Custody (UCCJEA)
• Child Support, Spousal Maintenance & Paternity
• Family Offense Proceedings & Orders of Protection
• Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements
• Post-Judgment Enforcement, Modifications & Family Law Appeals

Languages Spoken

• English
• Russian
• Hebrew

Bar Admissions

• State Courts:
  • New York 
  • New Jersey
  • Illinois
• U.S. District Courts:
  • U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York
  • U.S. District Court, Eastern District of New York
  • U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey
  • U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) – Touro University Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center (2005)
  • Member, Touro Law Review
• Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) – Long Island University, C.W. Post Campus (2005)
• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Commerce – DePaul University (2002)
  • Graduated with Honors

Awards & Recognitions

• Top 100 Trial Lawyers – The National Trial Lawyers
• Top 40 Under 40 – The National Trial Lawyers
• Nationally Ranked Top 10 Under 40 – National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
• Top 10 Attorneys Under 40 – National Academy of Family Law Attorneys
• Nation’s Top One Percent – National Association of Distinguished Counsel

Clerkships & Special Appointments

• Judicial Clerk – Chief Justice Stephen Adler, Israel Supreme Court of Labor (2004)

Media Appearances & Interviews

• Legal Commentator – WSBC Radio (2012–2014)
• Cover Feature – Russian Chicago Magazine
• Featured Profile – Reklama Magazine (Highlighting Selection to National Trial Lawyers Top 100)
• High-Profile Media – Regularly featured as legal commentary and defense counsel in television, print, and online news outlets.

Publications

• Co-Author, “Court of Appeals of New York, People v. Grice,”Touro Law Review, Vol. 20, No. 1, Article 7 (2004).
• Author, “I Thought My Criminal Defense Attorney Got Me an Amazing Deal! So Why Am I Being Deported?”Chicago Review, Vol. 8, No. 6 (2010).

Personal Life

Outside of his legal practice, Michael is a dedicated family man who enjoys spending quality time with his family, volunteering as a tutor, and contributing to local community development initiatives.