About Eric J.
Eric J. Sheppard started his legal path in Michigan. He earned his J.D. from Western Michigan University Cooley Law School in 2005 and built a practice grounded in local courts and community institutions. He trained as a mediator at Thomas M. Cooley Law School and later earned certification that added a neutral dispute-resolution skill to his toolbox.
Early in his career Sheppard spent time learning the rhythms of courtroom work and client advocacy. He became involved with the Ingham County Bar Association where he connected with colleagues across practice areas. That local bar work gave him steady exposure to criminal dockets and community legal needs.
Outside the courthouse, Sheppard has been active in civic organizations. He joined the Lansing Jaycees in 2009 and has remained involved in their activities. The group offered him an outlet for community service and a network beyond the legal world. Those ties have shaped how he approaches cases and client relationships.
Sheppard’s training as a certified mediator complements his courtroom experience. The certification reflects formal study at Thomas M. Cooley Law School and an interest in settling disputes through structured negotiation. It also provides another avenue for resolving matters without trial when circumstances allow.
In practice his work centers on criminal defense. He represents clients in Lansing and surrounding jurisdictions in Michigan. His office handles the routine and the more contested matters that appear in state criminal courts. He appears before judges and works with prosecutors, investigators, and family members as cases progress.
Colleagues describe Sheppard as steady and practical in approach. He favors clear explanations for clients and an honest appraisal of likely outcomes. That style tends to shorten long lists of legal options into a manageable plan for people who are often facing stressful decisions.
Over the years Sheppard has balanced advocacy and mediation, moving between aggressive representation where needed and negotiated resolutions when they serve clients’ interests. He continues to participate in the Ingham County Bar Association and in community groups in Lansing, maintaining local ties.
He currently practices criminal defense at Lansing Criminal Defense.
