About Mr. Denis J
Mr. Denis J McCarthy built a law practice in a region where local ties carry weight. He is a familiar presence in courthouses and community halls. Colleagues describe him as steady and practical. He has spent decades working in Michigan and in federal forums.
He earned his J.D. from Michigan State University College of Law in 1990, after beginning his legal studies in 1987. That academic foundation led to admission to practice in Michigan and later in the Federal Circuit. His training at Michigan State set the stage for a career spent largely handling matters that arise under both state and federal law.
In 2001 he became a lawyer-owner at Kohl, Harris, Nolan & McCarthy, P.C. That role put him in a position to shape the firm’s handling of local disputes and appellate matters alike. Over the years he has balanced courtroom work with case preparation and client counseling. He has navigated the procedural demands of state courts and the distinct rules that govern federal appellate practice.
His practice reflects the jurisdictions in which he is licensed. He litigates in Michigan courts and appears in proceedings before the Federal Circuit when the work requires it. That combination means he must be equally comfortable with trial-level procedure and the written advocacy typical of appellate matters. He handles filings, oral argument preparation, and the sort of factual development that supports appellate briefs.
McCarthy maintains active memberships in professional associations and continues to participate in the legal community. He also keeps an office presence beyond a single address. He maintains an office in Caro, Michigan, and handles matters under his own name as well. That local accessibility is part of how he manages client relationships and case intake.
Peers say he prefers clear, direct advocacy rather than flourish. He focuses on the nuts and bolts of a case: evidence, precedent, and procedure. That approach suits the mixed caseload that comes from practicing both in state trial courts and before a specialized federal circuit.
As of 2026 he continues to practice in Michigan and in proceedings that reach the Federal Circuit. His current practice focuses on matters brought in Michigan courts and in the Federal Circuit.
