Gov. Snyder makes reappointments to Michigan Indigent Defense Commission

Gov. Rick Snyder Wednesday announced the reappointments of Frank Eaman of Huntington Woods, Brandy Robinson of Detroit, John Shea of Chelsea, and Michael Swor of Grosse Pointe Woods, to the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission.

The commission was created to improve legal representation for low-income criminal defendants. In October 2011, Snyder issued Executive Order 2011-12, establishing the initial Indigent Defense Advisory Commission, responsible for recommending improvements to the state’s legal system. These recommendations served as the basis for legislation to address this need and called for the 15-member Indigent Defense Commission that the governor signed into law in July 2013.

“A key principle of the judicial system is that every citizen has a right to competent legal counsel,” Snyder said. “I am confident these members will continue to serve our state well on this commission.”

Eaman is an attorney with Frank D. Eaman, P.L.L.C. In this capacity his professional experience deals with trials and appeals in state and federal courts, with an emphasis on criminal cases. Eaman earned his law degree from the University of Michigan. He will continue to represent members submitted by the Criminal Defense Attorneys Association of Michigan.

Robinson is the deputy defender, research and writing specialist with the Federal Defender Office. She previously served at the State Appellate Defender Office.  Robinson earned her bachelor’s degree and law degree from the University of Michigan. She will continue to represent those whose primary mission or purpose is to advocate for minority interests.

Shea is a practicing attorney and owner of John A. Shea, Attorney at Law. He has previously worked as a criminal defense attorney and has served on the Indigent Defense Advisory Commission. Shea holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and a law degree from the University of Michigan. He will continue to represent members recommended by the Criminal Defense Attorneys Association of Michigan.

Swor has practiced federal criminal and immigration law for 42 years and has presented cases in state and federal courts in over 20 state and federal jurisdictions. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Oakland University and his law degree from Wayne State University. He will continue to represent members submitted by the Criminal Defense Attorneys Association of Michigan.

Members will serve four-year terms expiring April 1, 2020. Their appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.