About Michelle
Michelle Bell built her academic foundation around law and public affairs. She earned a Bachelor of Science in political science, criminal justice and pre-law from the University of North Florida in 2009. She then completed her Juris Doctor at Arizona Summit Law School in 2012, where criminal law figured prominently in her coursework.
After law school Bell gained admission to practice in both California and Arizona. She has practiced in state courts in those jurisdictions, handling matters that arise under state criminal statutes. Her dual admission allows her to manage cases that involve cross-border elements or that require coordinated filings in multiple state systems.
Her practice is concentrated in criminal defense. She represents clients at initial appearances, arraignments and pretrial hearings, negotiates plea arrangements when appropriate and takes cases to trial when the circumstances demand it. She works on cases ranging from lower-level misdemeanors to serious felony charges, addressing client concerns at each stage of the process.
Bell’s educational background in criminal justice and political science informs how she approaches cases. She draws on coursework in criminal law to frame legal arguments and on her undergraduate studies to read the broader social and institutional context that often shapes criminal matters. She prepares written motions, examines statutory elements and develops strategies for both negotiation and litigation.
In the courtroom she handles advocacy and procedural tasks common to criminal defense: presenting evidence, examining witnesses, arguing motions and advising clients on potential outcomes. She also handles the paperwork and procedural deadlines that state court practice requires. Her work involves interacting with prosecutors, preparing witnesses and presenting evidence in hearings and trials.
Outside the courtroom she spends time reviewing case files, researching relevant legal precedent and meeting with clients to explain options and next steps. She adapts to the differing rules and practices of California and Arizona courts. She maintains a practice devoted to criminal defense matters in those jurisdictions and continues to represent clients in state criminal cases.
