Track Record

From the first stages of an investigation to the final stages of appeal, Tessa knows how the system works from the inside out. She uses her expertise as a former federal prosecutor to help her clients understand the investigative process, find weaknesses in the case, and build a strong defense. Tessa’s clients routinely comment that she is responsive, empathetic, professional, and effective.

Tessa is a persuasive courtroom advocate and has won multiple not-guilty verdicts at trial. She has succeeded in both state and federal courts in achieving the complete dismissal of cases after filing Fourth Amendment challenges to traffic stops and searches. Tessa has convinced prosecutors at the state and federal levels to agree with her position on motions ranging from reversing improper sentencing conditions to excluding evidence against her clients at trial. Tessa succeeded in a motion to reverse a federal judge’s decision to deny bond to a client pending trial in a serious RICO conspiracy case. She achieved early release from a halfway house for a client suffering from a mental breakdown. She secured a sentence significantly below the recommended range in a federal healthcare fraud case, allowing her client to avoid serving prison time. These are just some examples of the results she has obtained for her clients.

Tessa has earned commendations for her work as a federal trial attorney from the FBI, Homeland Security, and the State Bar of Michigan. Since 2015, she has been selected by fellow attorneys and federal judges in the Western District of Michigan as a Steering Committee member and instructor for the Hillman Trial Advocacy Program —the district’s premier federal trial practice program.

Specialization

Tessa founded and leads SBBL Law’s Title IX practice group and has become a national leader in the field. She represents students, staff, and faculty members who are either the victim (complainant) or the accused person (respondent) in Title IX sexual harassment and sexual assault cases at schools and colleges nationwide. She puts her background as a federal prosecutor and defense attorney to work to ensure the Title IX investigation process is as fair and thorough as possible for her clients. Her expertise and track record in this field are unrivaled, and she brings a deep understanding of Title IX laws and policies to fight for a fair and just outcome in every case.

As a Title IX attorney, Tessa has successfully advocated for clients from five years old through college grad students and professors. She has won findings of “not responsible” for clients at Title IX hearings, obtained confidential settlements from schools that failed to follow the proper procedure, and advocated for supportive measures for clients who have experienced sexual assault and harassment. As a mom and step-mom, Tessa understands the unique dynamic of a family going through the difficult and overwhelming process of navigating the complex and overwhelming Title IX process. She acts as a true advocate, giving a voice to her clients and ensuring the investigation reflects any and all evidence and arguments in their favor.