Our Services

  • Focused. Strategic. Centered on protecting your dignity and rights.

    When your rights are violated — at work, school, in healthcare, by police, or in public — you deserve a lawyer who listens carefully, responds with clarity, and takes action with purpose.

    Northwatch Legal handles discrimination and civil-rights matters with a trauma-aware, client-centered approach. I focus on LGBTQ+ and trans clients, people targeted because of who they are, and individuals navigating systems that feel stacked against them.

    My goal is simple: give you structure, realistic expectations, and a plan that moves your case forward.

    1. Civil Rights Case Evaluation

    $250 flat fee
    A structured, in-depth review before you commit to litigation.

    Includes:

    • Detailed fact review

    • Legal viability analysis

    • Claims screening under:
      • Title VII
      • Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act
      • ADA/ADEA/Section 504
      • Section 1983 constitutional violations
      • Title IX / school discrimination
      • Public-accommodations claims

    • Assessment of damages and remedies

    • Written plan outlining recommended next steps

    Best for:
    Anyone unsure whether they have a legally actionable claim.
    If you hire me afterward, the $250 is credited toward your representation.

    2. Demand Letter / Early Resolution Package

    $850 – $1,500
    For clients seeking accountability and compensation without immediate litigation.

    Includes:

    • Full factual and legal analysis

    • Drafting a strong, evidence-based demand letter

    • Identifying key violations (civil rights, constitutional, or statutory)

    • Negotiation with employer, school, agency, or opposing counsel

    • Settlement strategy and expectations

    • One round of revisions

    Best for:
    Workplace discrimination, school-based issues, insurance/healthcare denials, harassment cases, or retaliation matters that may settle without filing a lawsuit.

    3. Administrative Agency Representation

    (E.E.O.C., Michigan Department of Civil Rights, OCR)
    $2,000 – $5,000, depending on complexity

    Includes:

    • Drafting and filing the administrative charge/complaint

    • Timeline and preservation-of-rights counseling

    • Evidence gathering and witness development

    • Agency interviews or mediation

    • Written position statement responses

    • Status updates and ongoing strategic guidance

    Best for:
    Clients who must complete the EEOC/MDCR process before litigation, or those who want an attorney to handle agency communications.

    4. Civil Rights Litigation (State or Federal Court)

    Hourly or hybrid-fee model
    Quoted after case evaluation due to complexity.

    Litigation-level services include:

    • Drafting the complaint

    • Motions practice, discovery, and depositions

    • Mediation/settlement work

    • Pre-trial and trial representation

    Typical hybrid litigation structure:

    • Reduced hourly rate + contingency percentage

    • OR standard hourly

    • OR capped stages (investigation → filing → discovery → trial prep)

    5. Limited-Scope Options

    For clients who need targeted help:

    • “Is this discrimination?” consult with a written memo: $375

    • Review of employer/school policies: $200–$450

    • Demand letter only: $700–$1,000

    • Evidence packet review and guidance: $300–$600

    • One-time strategy session (1 hour): $250

    What Every Client Receives

    • Trauma-aware, identity-affirming representation

    • Clear timelines and grounded expectations

    • Direct, plain-language explanations

    • Transparent communication

    • Documentation support

    • Realistic strategic planning

    • Respect for who you are and what you’ve experienced

    Payment Options

    • Flat-fee (for early-stage and administrative matters)

    • Hybrid fee (for litigation)

    • Sliding scale for low-income LGBTQ+ clients (limited spots)

    Next Steps

    1. Complete a short intake form (see general intake form)

    2. Schedule a case evaluation (as mentioned above) and asses goals and available options.

    3. Review and sign a written retainer agreement as agreed upon.

    Your story matters. Your rights matter.
    Let’s build a plan that reflects both.

  • Direct. Respectful. Focused on protecting your future.

    Facing a criminal charge can feel overwhelming — especially if you’ve never been through the system before. You deserve a lawyer who explains things clearly, treats you with respect, and builds a strategy that fits your life, not just the charge on paper.

    Northwatch Legal provides steady, judgment-free representation for misdemeanor and select felony matters, with a focus on LGBTQ+ clients, young adults, veterans, and anyone navigating a system that often feels stacked against them.

    My approach is practical, evidence-focused, and centered on keeping your life stable while we manage your case.

    1. Case Evaluation & Strategy Session

    $250 flat fee

    A structured review that helps you understand the charge, the likely outcomes, and the smartest first steps.

    Includes:

    • Review of complaint, police reports, and available evidence

    • Court and docket check

    • Sentencing-risk analysis

    • Defenses and mitigation opportunities

    • Written recommendations for next steps

    Best for:
    Clients unsure what their options are or what the case actually means.
    (Credited toward the full retainer if you move forward.)

    2. Misdemeanor Defense Package

    $1,500 – $2,500

    For first- and second-level misdemeanors, including assault, theft, OWI-1st, disorderly conduct, possession, and similar cases.

    Includes:

    • Court appearances (arraignment → pretrial → resolution)

    • Evidence review and challenge strategy

    • Negotiation with the prosecutor

    • Mitigation plan (letters, treatment, employment records)

    • Sentencing preparation

    • One post-sentencing check-in

    Best for:
    Clients wanting steady representation from start to finish on a straightforward case.

    3. Enhanced Misdemeanor / High-Impact Case Package

    $2,200 – $3,500

    For cases that involve:

    • Domestic violence allegations

    • OWI-2nd

    • LGBTQ+ identity-based targeting

    • Potential immigration impact

    • Significant professional or licensing consequences

    Includes everything in the standard package plus:

    • Extended mitigation development

    • Impact statements and character evidence prep

    • Additional prosecutor negotiations

    • Detailed collateral-consequences counseling

    • Two additional post-sentencing follow-ups

    Best for:
    Clients whose personal, family, or career stability is on the line.

    4. Felony Preliminary Examination Representation

    $1,800 – $3,000

    For clients needing representation only through the preliminary exam.

    Includes:

    • Arraignment on the complaint

    • Evidence review

    • Preliminary exam strategy

    • Examination or waiver recommendations

    • Negotiation for charge reductions

    • Transition plan if case is bound over to circuit court

    Best for:
    Clients who want strong early-stage representation but are not yet ready to commit to full felony litigation.

    5. Full Felony Defense (Circuit Court)

    Quoted individually
    Full felony litigation varies widely in complexity, evidence volume, and risk.
    After your evaluation session, you’ll receive a clear quote with one of the following fee structures:

    Available models:

    • Flat fee per stage (arraignment → pretrial → motions → trial)

    • Hybrid (reduced flat fee + hourly for motion practice)

    • Standard flat fee

    • Trial fee (separate and clearly defined)

    This gives you cost transparency and control while keeping expectations realistic.

    6. Limited-Scope Criminal Services

    Clear, flat-fee options for clients who need targeted support:

    • One-time plea-consult or case-impact session: $350

    • Record and sentencing-guideline review: $200–$350

    • Diversion/deferral plan development: $300–$500

    • Mitigation packet preparation: $500–$800

    • Representation at one hearing only: $350–$900

    What Every Client Receives

    • Steady, respectful communication

    • Clear explanations of the process and the “why” behind each recommendation

    • Confidential, judgment-free support

    • Trauma-informed and LGBTQ+-affirming representation

    • Realistic expectations based on Michigan practice

    • Strong mitigation work to protect your future

    Payment Options

    • Flat-fee retainer

    • 50/50 split payment

    • Limited sliding-scale availability for low-income LGBTQ+ clients

    • Military/veteran rate reductions

    Next Steps

    1. Fill out the criminal law intake form linked to the left.

    2. Schedule your evaluation session.

    3. Review potential options and recommended next steps.

    4. Enter into a retainer agreement built around services as discussed.

    5. Begin building your defense

    You deserve a defense that is structured, honest, and grounded in real-world strategy — not fear or confusion.

  • Clear. Dignified. Built for the way your family actually works.

    At Northwatch Legal, estate planning isn’t just paperwork — it’s protection.
    It’s making sure your wishes are honored, your loved ones are secure, and your voice is respected no matter what happens.

    I provide judgment-free, LGBTQ+-affirming estate planning designed for real families, including queer couples, polycules, co-parenting structures, and families with blended or chosen relationships. Every plan is tailored to the people who matter most in your life.

    Services include:

    • Wills and simple trusts

    • Durable powers of attorney

    • Medical directives and HIPAA releases

    • Guardianship planning for children or dependents

    • Planning for chosen family and nontraditional households

    • Support for small business owners and creatives

    • Name and gender-marker alignment across documents

    • Peace-of-mind checklists and ongoing updates

    My approach is direct, practical, and grounded. I walk you through your options in plain language, help you identify what actually matters, and make sure your plan reflects who you are — not who the law assumes you to be.

    Whether you’re building a life with your partner(s), raising kids, navigating sensitive family dynamics, or making sure your chosen family is protected, I’ll help you create a plan that gives you clarity and control.

    Your life. Your people. Your plan — protected.

    Fees & Pricing

    1. Essential Estate Planning Package

    $1,500 - $2,500
    For individuals or couples who want the core protections in place.

    Includes:

    • Last Will & Testament

    • Durable Financial Power of Attorney

    • Healthcare Power of Attorney

    • HIPAA Release

    • Final wishes document

    • Signing ceremony guidance

    • One round of revisions

    Best for:
    Clients who want a foundational plan without complexity.

    2. Chosen Family / Nontraditional Household Package

    $1,500 - $2,500 + $500 per additional family member (for polyamorous families)
    Designed specifically for LGBTQ+, polyamorous, blended, and chosen-family structures.

    Includes:

    • Customized Wills

    • Co-parenting or multi-guardian planning

    • Medical directives + chosen-family access language

    • Trust recommendations (if needed)

    • Relationship and role mapping session

    • Two rounds of revisions

    Best for:
    Households that don’t fit the standard legal mold and need documents that reflect real-life relationships.

    3. Small Business Owner Package

    $2,000 - $7,500 (depending on type of business and complexities)
    For clients who own a business, freelance, or operate a creative practice.

    Includes:

    • Will tailored to business assets

    • Successor or emergency management designations

    • Digital asset plan (websites, accounts, crypto, etc.)

    • Powers of attorney + medical directives

    • Business continuity memo

    • Two rounds of revisions

    Best for:
    Entrepreneurs, artists, makers, and anyone with business or professional assets.

    4. Comprehensive Estate Plan with Living Trust

    $3,000 - $5,000
    A full plan for clients who want to avoid probate, streamline transfer of assets, and create long-term stability.

    HIGHLY recommended for any individuals who have minor children or special needs dependents.

    Includes:

    • Revocable Living Trust

    • Pour-over Will

    • Medical directives + POAs

    • Trust funding guidance

    • Beneficiary review

    • Digital assets plan

    • Signing coordination

    Best for:
    Clients with property, dependents, or multi-state assets who want a more robust plan.

    5. Limited-Scope Add-Ons

    Flat pricing based on scope.

    • Review of existing estate documents: $250–$400

    • Name & gender-marker update alignment: $150–$350

    • Standalone healthcare directive: $150

    • Emergency turn-around (48–72 hours): +$500

    Payment Options

    • Flat-fee upfront

    • Half upfront + half at document signing

    • Sliding scale available for low-income LGBTQ+ clients (limited slots)

    Next Steps

    1. Complete a short intake form

    2. Schedule a consult

    3. Choose your package

    4. Receive your personalized plan

    Clear documents. Fair pricing. Planning that actually reflects who you are.

  • Transparent. Practical. Designed to give you a real second chance.

    Clearing a criminal record can transform your opportunities — employment, housing, licensing, stability, and peace of mind.
    At Northwatch Legal, expungement work is done with care, thoroughness, and respect for the whole person. My goal is to make the process clear, predictable, and manageable.

    Every package includes straight answers about eligibility, timeline, and what evidence will strengthen your petition.

    1. Eligibility Review & Case Assessment

    $250 flat fee

    Before anything moves forward, you get a clear, well-reasoned assessment of whether you qualify under Michigan’s Clean Slate laws.

    Includes:

    • Full criminal-history review

    • Eligibility analysis for:
      • Automatic expungement
      • Petition-based expungement
      • Waiting periods and statutory limits

    • Clear explanation of obstacles

    • Written summary of options

    Best for:
    Anyone who wants to know exactly where they stand before committing to a full package.

    If you hire me for the petition after this review, the $150 is credited toward your fee.

    2. Standard Expungement Petition Package

    $1,000 – $1,500
    For straightforward, single-case petitions.

    Includes:

    • Certified record review

    • Preparation and filing of petition

    • Gathering supporting evidence

    • Communications with court, prosecutor, & MSP

    • Hearing preparation session

    • Attorney appearance at hearing

    • One set of revisions and updates

    Best for:
    Most first-time expungement clients with one eligible conviction.

    3. Multi-Case / Complex Expungement Package

    $1,500 – $2,000

    For clients with multiple convictions, unusual procedural histories, or evidentiary needs.

    Includes everything in the Standard Package plus:

    • Multi-case strategy development

    • Coordination across multiple courts or counties

    • Enhanced evidence plan (letters, treatment records, employer statements)

    • Detailed written narrative for petition

    • Prosecutor negotiation when appropriate

    Best for:
    Clients with several convictions or legal complexities that require strategic planning.

    4. Add-Ons & Limited-Scope Services

    Clear, flat-fee options for targeted help.

    • Certified records request assistance: $75–$150

    • Supplemental evidence development: $150–$300

    • Character letter drafting support: $100–$200

    • Post-hearing follow-up / order distribution: $100

    • Emergency or expedited timelines: +$250

    What’s Included in Every Package

    • Judgment-free representation

    • Trauma-informed communication

    • Clear timeline and expectations

    • Transparent fees

    • Plain-language explanations at every step

    Payment Options

    • Flat-fee upfront

    • 50/50 split (half at signing, half before the hearing)

    • Limited sliding-scale slots for low-income LGBTQ+ clients

    Next Steps

    1. Complete the criminal law intake form.

    2. Receive an eligibility review.

    3. Discuss available options and goals.

    4. Enter into a retainer agreement based on our discussions.

    5. Begin petition preparation

    A criminal record doesn’t have to define your future.
    Let’s get you the clean slate you deserve.

  • Clear. Steady. Focused on safety, stability, and dignity.

    Immigration is stressful — especially for LGBTQ+ and trans clients, people fleeing harm, families trying to stay together, and individuals navigating detention.
    Northwatch Legal provides careful, trauma-aware immigration representation with plain-language explanations, realistic timelines, and a strategy grounded in your specific goals.

    My role is to protect your rights, help you understand the process, and build a strong, well-documented case.

    1. Immigration Case Evaluation

    $250 flat fee

    A structured review of your situation and options.

    Includes:

    • Review of your immigration history

    • Assessment of relief options (asylum, VAWA, U-Visa, family, parole, etc.)

    • Risk analysis (detention, prior orders, criminal issues)

    • Discussion of timelines and realistic outcomes

    • Written summary of next steps

    Best for:
    Anyone unsure what type of immigration relief they may qualify for.
    Credited toward the full case fee if you hire me.

    Asylum, Humanitarian, and LGBTQ+ Protection Cases

    2. Affirmative Asylum Package (USCIS)

    $3,000 – $5,500

    Includes:

    • Full declaration drafting

    • Country conditions research

    • Evidence development and organization

    • Filing with USCIS

    • Interview preparation

    • Attorney representation at interview

    • Two rounds of revisions and updates

    Best for:
    LGBTQ+ clients, people fleeing persecution, or anyone building a detailed protection claim.

    3. Defensive Asylum (Immigration Court)

    $5,000 – $8,000
    (Does not include detained cases)

    Includes:

    • I-589 preparation and filing

    • Timeline planning

    • Evidence development

    • Country conditions packet

    • Hearing preparation

    • Attorney representation at all Individual Hearings

    Best for:
    Clients already in removal proceedings or facing an NTA.

    4. Detained Asylum / Detained Immigration Cases

    $6,500 – $15,000, depending on urgency & complexity

    Includes:

    • Rapid-timeline case preparation

    • Communication with family and detention facility

    • Evidence gathering under time constraints

    • Hearing preparation

    • In-court representation

    Bond hearings are billed separately, since they require distinct evidence and filings.

    VAWA, U-Visa, and Humanitarian Cases

    5. VAWA Self-Petition Package

    $2,500 – $5,000

    Includes:

    • Detailed declaration drafting

    • Trauma-aware evidence development

    • Filing with USCIS

    • Requests for prima facie determinations

    • RFE responses

    6. U-Visa Package

    $3,500 – $6,000

    Includes:

    • I-918 and I-918B coordination

    • Evidence development

    • Personal declaration drafting

    • Filing and updates

    • Bona fide determination guidance

    Family-Based Cases

    7. Family Petition (I-130) + Adjustment of Status (I-485)

    $2,500 – $4,000

    Includes:

    • Petitions and declarations

    • Evidence review and organization

    • Medical exam coordination

    • Interview preparation

    • USCIS interview representation

    8. Consular Processing

    $2,800 – $4,500

    Includes:

    • I-130 filing

    • NVC processing

    • Packet preparation

    • Consular interview preparation

    Detained & Removal Cases (Non-Asylum)

    9. Bond Hearing Representation

    $3,500 - $6,500

    Includes:

    • Motion for custody redetermination

    • Evidence of community ties

    • Letters of support

    • Hearing preparation

    • Attorney representation at hearing

    10. Master Calendar Hearing (One Appearance Only)

    $1,000 (non-detained), $3,000 (detained)

    Limited-scope option for one hearing.

    Limited-Scope Immigration Services

    • “What are my options?” memo: $350

    • FOIA requests (DHS/USCIS/EOIR): $150–$350 each

    • Document packet review: $200–$600

    • Evidence coaching for pro se applicants: $250–$500

    • One hearing only (non-detained): $400–$900

    What Every Client Receives

    • Trauma-aware, LGBTQ+-affirming support

    • Clear, direct communication

    • Realistic expectations based on your case

    • Detailed explanations of timelines and risks

    • Help gathering strong evidence

    • Structured case planning

    Payment Options

    • Flat-fee pricing

    • 50/50 payment splits

    • Payment plans available for humanitarian cases

    • Limited sliding-scale availability for low-income LGBTQ+ clients

    • Detained case urgency fees transparently disclosed

    Next Steps

    1. Complete an immigration intake form (please advise if you will need interpretation services, but I understand Spanish and Arabic).

    2. Schedule your evaluation.

    3. Choose the package that fits your goals.

    4. Enter into a retainer agreement based on our discussions.

    5. We move forward in your defense.

    Immigration is personal — your representation should reflect that.
    Let’s build a plan that protects your safety, your family, and your future.

  • Quiet. Precise. Built to strengthen your case behind the scenes.

    Not every attorney or litigant needs full representation — sometimes what you need is focused, high-quality support on a specific motion, brief, or case stage.
    Northwatch Legal provides reliable, behind-the-scenes litigation assistance for solo practitioners, small firms, conflict counsel, nonprofits, and pro se litigants who want strong legal work product without expanding their caseload.

    My role is to help you gain clarity, sharpen your arguments, and strengthen your position — quietly and efficiently.

    1. Case Review & Litigation Strategy Consultation

    $250 flat fee

    A structured analysis to help attorneys or litigants understand the strengths, weaknesses, and tactical steps ahead.

    Includes:

    • Review of pleadings, orders, and procedural posture

    • Identification of key legal issues

    • Strategic options for next steps

    • Early assessment of motion opportunities

    • Written outline of recommendations

    Best for:
    Attorneys or pro se litigants who need a quick, expert read on the case before acting.

    Fee is credited toward any drafting work if retained.

    2. Motion & Brief Ghostwriting Package

    (Attorney clients only — not available to pro se litigants without clear boundaries)
    $1,000 – $2,500, depending on complexity

    Includes:

    • Detailed legal research

    • Drafting of motion, brief, or memorandum of law

    • Supporting exhibits and citations

    • One revision based on feedback

    • Coordinated filing timeline

    • Optional oral-argument outline (+$150–$300)

    Types of motions commonly drafted:

    • Motions to dismiss

    • Summary judgment motions

    • Constitutional challenges

    • Discovery motions

    • Evidentiary briefs

    • Motions in limine

    • Emergency motions

    Best for:
    Overextended attorneys, conflict counsel, or firms needing polished work product under tight deadlines.

    3. Amicus Brief Drafting

    $2,500 – $10,000
    (depending on jurisdiction, length, and complexity)

    Includes:

    • Issue framing

    • Narrative and interest-statement development

    • Legal argument drafting

    • Citation-ready authorities

    • Coordination with partner organizations

    • Formatting and filing guidance

    Best for:
    Advocacy organizations, LGBTQ+ groups, civil-rights entities, or attorneys seeking to amplify key legal arguments.

    4. Pre-Litigation Investigation & Case Building

    $800 – $2,000

    Includes:

    • Factual timeline development

    • Evidence assessment

    • Legal theory screening

    • Early damages evaluation

    • Drafting of preservation letters or preliminary demand outline

    • Risk and viability assessment

    Best for:
    Attorneys deciding whether to take a case, nonprofits evaluating impact litigation, or clients preparing to file.

    5. Conflict-Counsel Assistance Package

    $1,000 – $2,500

    For attorneys appointed under conflict contracts who need research, writing, or case-building support.

    Includes:

    • Review of discovery

    • Drafting motions or objections

    • Issue-spotting for trial or appeal

    • Sentencing memo drafting

    • Strategic planning calls

    Best for:
    Public defenders, contract/conflict attorneys, or small firms balancing heavy caseloads.

    6. Limited-Scope Litigation Services

    Targeted, flat-fee support:

    • Legal research memo: $300–$800

    • Drafting of a single section (e.g., facts, intro, standard): $200–$450

    • Citation clean-up & authority check: $150–$300

    • Record review & issue spotting: $250–$500

    • Appellate brief outline / roadmap: $350–$750

    • Shadow-editing another lawyer’s draft: $200–$500

    What Every Attorney (or Pro Se Client) Receives

    • Confidential, behind-the-scenes support

    • Plain-language communication

    • High-quality legal analysis

    • Fast turnaround when needed

    • Trauma-informed and identity-aware assistance for sensitive cases

    • Clear expectations and predictable fees

    Payment Options

    • Flat-fee per project

    • Stage-based billing

    • 50/50 split on larger briefs

    • Monthly contract for ongoing assistance (by request)

    Next Steps

    1. Send the pleadings or issues you need support with

    2. Book a strategy call or case review

    3. Receive a clear quote and timeline

    4. Approve the project and begin work

    Reliable. Quiet. High-quality litigation support you can trust.

  • Steady. Precise. Grounded in real-world military practice.

    The military justice system is its own world — rigid timelines, unique rules, command influence, and high personal stakes.
    As a former Navy JAG I provide clear, disciplined litigation support for service members, veterans, and civilian defense counsel navigating Boards, Courts-Martial, and administrative actions.

    My role is to bring structure, analysis, and battle-tested judgment to complex military cases — quietly, efficiently, and with respect for the client’s career, reputation, and future.

    1. Military Case Evaluation

    $250 flat fee

    A structured analysis of your situation, tailored to the military system.

    Includes:

    • Review of charge sheets, notifications, and records

    • UCMJ and Manual for Courts-Martial (MCM) analysis

    • Assessment of strengths, weaknesses, and procedural posture

    • Potential relief (administrative, legal, or equity-based)

    • Written plan with next steps

    Best for:
    Service members or counsel needing a clear read on the case before deciding how to proceed.

    Fee is credited toward any full package.

    Separation Boards & Administrative Actions

    2. Administrative Separation Board Package

    $2,500 – $5,000
    (Varies by complexity and service branch)

    Includes:

    • Evidence and record review

    • Narrative and rebuttal drafting

    • Witness preparation

    • Mitigation and equity packet drafting

    • Legal research and issue framing

    • Pre-board strategy session

    • Support for civilian counsel or direct client prep

    Best for:
    Service members facing misconduct-based or performance-based separation.

    3. Nonjudicial Punishment (Article 15 / Captain’s Mast) Support

    $450 – $900

    Includes:

    • Evidence and legal issue review

    • Mitigation packet development

    • Written response or presentation prep

    • Guidance on mitigation, statements, and appeals

    Courts-Martial Assistance (Supporting Civilian Counsel or Trial Teams)

    4. Courts-Martial Litigation Support Package

    $2,500 – $8,500
    (depending on charges, volume, and stage of trial)

    Includes:

    • Charge sheet analysis

    • Motions practice (suppression, discovery, UCI, evidentiary issues)

    • Drafting briefs and legal memoranda

    • Issue-spotting under MRE/MCM

    • Witness outlines and prep materials

    • Sentencing strategy and mitigation development

    • Support for civilian defense teams

    Best for:
    Civilian counsel handling military cases, or service members needing behind-the-scenes legal firepower.

    5. Motion & Brief Ghostwriting (UCMJ)

    $1,000– $2,500

    Includes:

    • Legal research specific to military law

    • MRE and UCMJ authority analysis

    • Drafting motions, responses, or briefs

    • One revision based on attorney feedback

    • Optional oral-argument outline (+$150–$300)

    Available to attorneys only, unless structured as consulting support.

    Boards for Correction & Military Record Upgrades

    6. Discharge Upgrade / BCNR / BCMR Package

    $2,500 – $6,500

    Includes:

    • Full service record review

    • Drafting petition and legal argument

    • Evidence development (medical, mental health, service records)

    • Supporting statements

    • Regulatory and policy analysis

    • Submission guidance and follow-up

    Best for:
    Veterans seeking fairness, correction, or restoration of benefits.

    Limited-Scope Military Services

    • Legal research memo (UCMJ, MRE, MCM): $300–$600

    • Charge sheet and evidence review: $250–$450

    • Mitigation packet (letters, command impact, medical): $400–$800

    • Rebuttal drafting for administrative letters (LOI/LOD/LOC): $250–$600

    • One-time strategy session: $300

    What Every Client or Attorney Receives

    • Precise, regulation-based analysis

    • Honest, grounded expectations

    • Straightforward communication

    • Trauma-aware support for service members and LGBTQ+ personnel

    • Confidential, behind-the-scenes assistance

    • Strategic planning informed by actual military practice

    Payment Options

    • Flat-fee per project

    • Stage-based billing for courts-martial

    • 50/50 payment splits

    • Monthly support contracts for law firms or defense teams

    • Reduced rates for active-duty enlisted members

    Next Steps

    1. Fill out a general intake form and note what proceeding you are facing.

    2. Send your notifications, charge sheets, or board documents.

    3. Schedule an evaluation.

    4. Enter into a retainer agreement. (Note: all service members are provided help of a detailed JAG Officer free of charge for any administrative boards or courts martial. You may waive representation of a JAG in favor of a civilian attorney or keep your detailed JAG and add civilian counsel to bring more firepower to your case. This is up to you, as there are no significant pros or cons outside of cost).

    5. Select the package that fits your needs

    Military justice is fast, unforgiving, and deeply personal.
    You deserve support from someone who understands the system from the inside.

  • Affirming. Efficient. Focused on dignity and accuracy.

    Aligning your legal name and gender marker with who you are should not be confusing, expensive, or dehumanizing.
    Northwatch Legal provides judgment-free, identity-affirming support for adults, minors, trans youth, and families navigating Michigan, federal, passport, and SSA name and gender-marker processes.

    My role is to make this as smooth and predictable as possible — with clear steps, clear pricing, and clear communication.

    1. Name/Gender Marker Consultation & Document Review

    $125 flat fee

    A short, structured meeting to review your goals and confirm the best path.

    Includes:

    • Michigan court requirements explained in plain language

    • Review of your current documents

    • Identification of needed forms

    • Step-by-step timeline

    • Written plan for next steps

    Best for:
    Adults, youth, or families who want clarity before starting.
    Fee credited toward any package.

    Adult Name Change & Gender Marker Services

    2. Adult Name Change Package (Michigan Court)

    $450 – $750

    Includes:

    • Drafting all required name-change forms

    • Instructions for fingerprinting (if required)

    • Publication waiver request (if applicable)

    • Filing guidance

    • Hearing preparation (if applicable)

    • Post-order document update checklist

    Best for:
    Adults seeking a Michigan court-ordered name change.

    3. Gender Marker Update Package (ID, SSA)

    DUE TO CURRENT ADMINISTRATION POLICIES, PASSPORT GENDER MARKER CHANGES ARE NOT FEASIBLE, AND EXTRA CONSIDERATIONS NEED TO BE MADE FOR POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF UPDATING SOME DOCUMENTS BUT NOT OTHERS.

    $300 – $600

    Includes:

    • Updated driver’s license/state ID guidance

    • SSA gender marker update

    • Selective Service considerations (if applicable)

    • Step-by-step instructions + completed forms

    Best for:
    Clients who already have a court order or need marker-only updates.

    4. Adult Full Alignment Package (Name + Gender Marker)

    $750 – $1,500

    Includes:
    Everything in the Adult Name Change Package plus:

    • SSA marker update

    • Driver’s license/state ID update

    • Comprehensive “update all your records” checklist

    • Priority email support

    Best for:
    Clients who want one complete, start-to-finish package.

    Youth & Family Services

    5. Minor Name Change Package

    $450 – $850
    (Varies based on parental consent or contested process)

    Includes:

    • Full petition drafting

    • Parental notice strategy

    • Assistance with consent requirements

    • Contested-hearing preparation (if applicable)

    • Post-order update guidance

    Best for:
    Parents or guardians seeking a supportive, affirming process for their child.

    6. Trans Youth Gender Marker Update Package

    $300 – $600

    Includes:

    • Guidance on Michigan ID changes

    • School record updates

    • SSA marker update (if age-eligible)

    • Letters/forms for school systems as needed (within ethical bounds)

    Best for:
    Youth and families needing a structured, safe process.

    Limited-Scope Options

    • Document checklist only: $75

    • Review of court forms you filled out yourself: $100–$150

    • Letter to school/employer supporting updates: $125–$250

    • Court hearing-only representation: $250–$450

    • Emergency expedited support (48–72 hrs): +$150

    What Every Client Receives

    • Identity-affirming, respectful support

    • Plain-language explanations of requirements

    • Realistic timelines

    • Protection of privacy and safety needs

    • Step-by-step structure from start to finish

    • No judgment, no gatekeeping

    Payment Options

    • Flat-fee pricing

    • Payment plans available

    • Limited sliding-scale availability for low-income LGBTQ+ clients

    • Reduced fees for trans youth and crisis cases

    Next Steps

    1. Complete the short intake form.

    2. Schedule your consultation.

    3. Enter into a retainer agreement as discussed.

    4. Begin the process with steady, clear support.

    Your name. Your identity. Your documents — aligned.
    Let’s get you where you need to be.

**Payment plans for flat fees are available upon request to increase accessibility and affordability.

If your issue is not covered in a specific form, please fill out the general intake form.

General Intake Form
Criminal Law Intake
Immigration Intake - English
Immigration Intake - Spanish