About Michelle

Michelle Kainen practices criminal law in White River Junction, Vermont — She has been a licensed attorney since 2007. Her firm focuses on various legal areas, including DUI and DWI defense, bankruptcy, foreclosure defense, and traffic tickets. With a strong commitment to her clients, she navigates complex legal issues across these practice areas. Her educational background is extensive. Michelle earned a B.A. in Psychology from California State University - San Diego State University in 1989.

She continued her studies at the same institution, obtaining a Master of Social Work Degree in 1993, specializing in Children, Youth, and Families. In 1998, she completed a Four Year Law Office Study Program through the Vermont Board of Bar Examiners. She later pursued a Master’s degree in Accounting with a focus on Taxation, which she completed in 2006. Most of her legal career began in 1997 when she started as a law clerk — This experience laid the groundwork for her future practice. Since becoming a licensed attorney, she has handled a variety of cases, particularly in criminal law and bankruptcy. Her approach to each case is methodical, ensuring that every detail is addressed — Cases typically involve initial consultations, negotiations, and, when necessary, representation in court.

Michelle is actively involved in several professional associations. She serves as the Vermont State Chairperson for the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Lawyers. Additionally, she is a member of both the New Hampshire State Bar and the Vermont State Bar. Her leadership extends to the Vermont Bar Association, where she is the Chairperson of the Bankruptcy Section. This involvement keeps her updated on the latest legal trends and enhances her advocacy skills. With a focus on client education, Michelle emphasizes the importance of understanding legal rights and options.

She works to ensure her clients are informed throughout the legal process. Her dedication to her clients and her community is evident through her active participation in legal education and advocacy. In her practice, Michelle aims to provide clear guidance and support, particularly in challenging situations. Her diverse background in social work and accounting enriches her understanding of the legal issues her clients face. This unique combination of skills allows her to address both the legal and emotional aspects of her clients' cases effectively.

Education

California State University - San Diego State University

M.S. (2008) | Accounting (Taxation)

2006

Vermont Board of Bar Examiners

Completion (2002) | Four Year Law Office Study Program

1998

California State University - San Diego State University

Master of Social Work Degree (1993) | Children, Youth and Families

1991

California State University - San Diego State University

B.A. | Psychology

1989

Experience

Lawyer

Kainen Law Office, PC
2007

Lawyer (Began as law clerk)

Michael Kainen Lawyer at Law
1997

Accepted Jurisdictions

Vermont
New Hampshire

Court Admissions

Vermont Supreme Court State Supreme Court
New Hampshire Supreme Court State Supreme Court

Types of Cases Handled

Criminal Law DUI & DWI Bankruptcy Foreclosure Defense Traffic Tickets

Legal Services Scope

Consultations Negotiations Representation in court

Professional Associations

National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Lawyers

Vermont State Chairperson 2012 - Current

New Hampshire State Bar

has membership 2008 - Current

National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Lawyers

has membership 2005 - Current

Vermont State Bar

has membership 2003 - Current

Vermont Bar Association

Chairperson - Bankruptcy Section 2008 - 2012

Office Locations

Main Office

 1011 North Main Street, Suite 31 P.O. Box 919 White River Junction VT 05001