Michael M. LaPlante
Michael M. LaPlante is an accomplished attorney with a reputation for excellence in litigation and client advocacy.
Since earning his Juris Doctor from the Birmingham School of Law in 2012, Michael has become a key figure at LaPlante Faulkner Wilson Murphy & Clay, helping to grow the firm into one of the largest practices in Northeast Alabama, specializing in Bankruptcy, Personal Injury, Criminal Defense, and Family Law. Known for his skill in the courtroom, Michael has successfully represented numerous clients in complex cases involving Bankruptcy, Criminal Defense, and Family Law matters.
Before transitioning to law, Michael enjoyed a distinguished career in sports as a Division I basketball coach. He served as an assistant coach at Yale, Maine, and Auburn before taking on the role of Head Coach at Jacksonville State University in 2000. This experience honed his leadership skills and strategic thinking, which he now brings to his legal practice. Michael also worked as a talent evaluator for ESPN, covering the Southeast, which further shaped his ability to analyze and navigate complex situations.
Education
Birmingham School of Law, Juris Doctor, 2012
University of Maine, Bachelor of Science – Education, with Honors, 1989
Practice Areas
- Bankruptcy
- Personal Injury
- Family Law
- Criminal Law
- DUIs
Professional Memberships
- Alabama Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
- American Association of Justice
- Calhoun-Cleburne County Bar Association
- Indigent Defense Committee for Calhoun and Cleburne Counties
Michael is actively involved in his community and currently serves as the Chairman of the RMC Hospital Foundation Board.
His leadership extends beyond his legal practice, with memberships in several professional organizations, including the Alabama Criminal Defense Lawyers Association and the American Association of Justice. Michael’s diverse background, from coaching Division I basketball to practicing law, allows him to approach legal challenges with a unique perspective on strategy, teamwork, and leadership.
