About Michael
Michael Hawkins built his legal foundation at the University of Alabama—Tuscaloosa, where he completed a B.A. in 1989 with studies spanning political science, English, journalism and economics. He later earned his J.D. from Emory University. Those academic years set the tone for a career that has centered on courtroom work and criminal-defense practice.
Early in his career Hawkins practiced in Georgia and developed a steady trial practice. He gravitated toward cases that require quick thinking and a firm command of procedure. Over time he focused on impaired-driving cases and related criminal matters, handling matters at arraignment, in pretrial proceedings and in jury trials.
Hawkins is board certified in DUI defense by the National College for DUI Defense (NCDD). That credential reflects a specific track of training and peer review rather than a general credential. He has relied on those standards while preparing defenses, evaluating forensic reports and examining expert testimony.
Colleagues describe him as methodical in case preparation. He breaks down complex technical evidence and charts a clear path through scientific reports. In court he prefers to let evidence and testimony speak first. Outside court he spends time preparing witnesses and consulting experts so the trial record is detailed and defensible.
His practice has also touched on broader criminal-defense issues that intersect with DUI work—search-and-seizure questions, breath- and blood-testing procedures, and post-conviction remedies. He handles motions challenging stops and warrants, and he has litigated suppression hearings. The work requires both technical literacy and the ability to explain complex concepts to judges and juries.
Hawkins is based at Hawkins Spizman Fortas. He practices in Georgia courts and handles matters that range from contested felonies to misdemeanor DUI cases. He maintains active courtroom involvement and continues to engage in technical learning to stay current on testing methodologies and evidentiary developments. He currently practices criminal defense and DUI defense at Hawkins Spizman Fortas in Georgia.
