ABOUT OUR CRIMINAL DEFENSE AND FAMILY LAW LAWYERS
LOWELL S. FRIEDMAN, FOUNDER
A graduate of Michigan State University and the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law, and a member of the Oakland County Bar Association and the State Bar of Michigan, Lowell Friedman is the founder and managing member of the Friedman Law Firm, PLLC. Lowell’s long-term practice focuses exclusively on Family Law and Criminal Defense.
A proficient Michigan trial lawyer, Lowell frequently appears in court to handle motions, hearings, and trials throughout the State of Michigan, from everywhere in the metropolitan Detroit area to the western and northern parts of the state.
Due to his success, Lowell has received the distinguished Super Lawyers award, which is based on an independent rating of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process includes independent research, peer nominations, and peer evaluations. Only 5 percent or fewer of the lawyers in any state are named as Super Lawyers.
Lowell is actively involved in the community. He recently completed his term on the Board of Directors of Hillel Day School and participates in several civic organizations in the Royal Oak and Berkley area.
Lowell is happily married to his wife Jennifer, a Ph.D. in psychology who has worked for many years with young people and families to assure they are learning and thriving at the highest levels. Lowell and Jennifer enjoy spending time with their two children, Max and Jacob.
JILL DUFFY, ATTORNEY
Jill Duffy joined the Friedman Law Firm in 2020 as a partner, practicing exclusively in family law and litigation.
Jill has always had a passion for family law and her practice has been dedicated to family law litigation ad mediation since 2010. Jill was previously part of a nationwide divorce litigation law firm, where she litigated divorce cases and managed their Michigan offices and a member of the family law group at a large metro-Detroit firm. Jill has handled simple and complex divorce cases throughout the State of Michigan. She focuses on achieving a positive result for each family while advocating her client’s goals. Jill has earned a reputation for being organized, efficient, and a creative problem solver. She is not afraid to try a case when it would get her client a better result. Jill’s commitment to be intelligently aggressive on each case has resulted in favorable settlements and trial results, as well as satisfied clients.
EDUCATION
- University of Wyoming College of Law, Western Trial Advocacy Institute, Trial Certificate, 2010
- Michigan State University, Juris Doctor, cum laude, 2009
- Oakland University, Bachelor of Arts, magna cum laude, Psychology and Spanish, 2005
MEMBERSHIPS
- State Bar of Michigan
- Macomb County Bar Association
- Oakland County Bar Association, Fellow
- Michigan Inter-Professional Association on Marriage, Divorce and Family
DISTINCTIONS
- Martindale-Hubbell Peer Rated for Highest Level of Professional Excellence
- Super Lawyer, 2020
- Super Lawyers Rising Start, 2014-2019
DANIEL DEBENE, SENIOR ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY
Friedman Law Firm welcomed Daniel J. DeBene (Danny) in 2023 as a senior litigation attorney with 12 years’ experience in family law. Danny has extensive experience litigating the issues involved in divorce, custody, parenting time, and support. He has a proven record of client satisfaction and positive outcomes via zealous advocacy, inside and outside of the courtroom.
Danny’s prior legal experience, in small and larger firms, helps him understand the value of having the right attorney for each case and the value of having a reliable team to support his client’s needs. Danny’s top priorities are compassion, care, and concern for his client’s best interest and well-being. He has proven to be a thoughtful, client-focused attorney and is well respected by his colleagues in the family law field.
Born and raised in Michigan, Danny is proud to call the Great Lakes State home. Danny enjoys playing guitar, hockey, golf, and spending time with his wife, Amanda, and their rescue dog, Opie.
Education
- University of Detroit Mercy School of Law, cum laude, 2010
- Western Michigan University, with honors, Bachelor of Arts, Sociology and Communications
- De La Salle Collegiate High School, 2002
Memberships
- State Bar of Michigan, 2010
Distinctions
- Super Lawyers Rising Star, 2013-2022
ALDA GOJCAJ, SENIOR PARALEGAL
Alda joined the firm in 2017. She received a Bachelor of Arts Degree and her Paralegal Diploma in 2015 from Oakland University.
She has worked in many industries including medical, sales, and most recently, before joining the legal world, as a restauranteur for the past decade.
Education
2015 Paralegal Certificate, Oakland University
2015 B.A. Oakland University
On A Personal Note
As a single mom of two boys, she kept busy working at the restaurant while completing her studies at Oakland University.
She enjoys traveling with her boys and introducing them to new cultures and traditions.
Alda is an avid reader and the ability to speak five languages gives her a diverse choice of publishing’s and that’s her getaway to unwind after a chaotic day.
LISA KWIECINSKI, LEGAL ASSISTANT
Lisa Kwiecinski joined the firm in 2021 as a Legal Assistant. She provides the attorneys in our practice with solid and reliable assistance and serves as a listening ear to our clients. Lisa’s attention to detail, organizational skills, and time management make her a valuable part of our client-centered team. In addition to Family Law, Lisa has experience with Commercial Litigation, Estate Planning, Probate and Real Estate.
When Lisa’s not working she enjoys time with her husband, two kids and family dog.
RENEE BUCKLEY, OFFICE MANAGER
Renee Buckley joined the firm in 2021 as Office Manager. With over 20 years of customer service experience, Renee supports the firm’s attorneys and clients with her knowledge, compassion, and leadership. Renee ensures the office operates efficiently and smoothly and greets each client with a smile.
Outside of work, family is very important to Renee. She enjoys spending time with her two daughters and extended family. She also likes baking, singing, dancing, playing cards, and competitive games.