Haveman and McMillin named to Michigan Indigent Defense Commission

Gov. Rick Snyder on Friday announced the appointment of Joseph Haveman of Holland as well as the reappointment of Thomas McMillin of Rochester Hills to the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission.

The commission was created as a result of efforts 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 as well as called for the 15-member Indigent Defense Commission that the governor signed into law in July 2013.

“I’d like to thank these individuals for their commitment to ensuring all Michiganders receive the legal representation they deserve,” Snyder said.

Haveman is the director of government affairs for the Hope Network, a non-profit organization that empowers individuals with disabilities to live independently. He served in the Michigan House of Representatives from 2009 – 2014 and previously served as a Holland City Councilman and an Ottawa County Commissioner. Haveman holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration from Ferris State University. He will serve as a nominee of the Speaker of the House and replace Richard Lindsey.

McMillin is a certified public accountant and the owner of Michigan Community Auditors PLLC. He served in the Michigan House of Representatives from 2009 – 2014 and was recently elected to the State Board of Education. McMillin holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and economics from the University of Michigan. He will continue to serve as a nominee of the Speaker of the House.

Members will serve four-year terms expiring April 1, 2021.