Veteran trial lawyer Erin Freers-Cole has been selected to lead Macomb County’s indigent defense system.

Freers-Cole currently serves as chief trial lawyer in the Public Defender’s Office and brings more than 18 years of legal experience, including extensive work in criminal defense and public service. She will now lead the office responsible for providing constitutionally mandated representation to residents who cannot afford private counsel. 

“Macomb County is proud to appoint Erin to this important role,” said County Executive Mark Hackel in announcing the appointment. “Her deep knowledge of the courtroom, strong leadership within the Public Defender’s Office, and commitment to fairness make her the right choice to guide this department forward. 

“She has the trust of her colleagues and the skills to serve the residents of Macomb County with integrity.” 

As a chief trial lawyer, Freers-Cole has overseen complex felony cases, supervised trial attorneys and worked to strengthen compliance with Michigan Indigent Defense Commission (MIDC) standards. 
Her career highlights include: 

• Leading litigation strategies in high-profile and complex criminal cases; 

• Mentoring and training attorneys within the Public Defender’s Office; 

• Supporting initiatives that expand access to quality defense services. 

Freers-Cole earned her Juris Doctor from University of Detroit Mercy.

“I am honored to accept this appointment,” said Freers-Cole. “The Public Defender’s Office plays a vital role in protecting constitutional rights, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside our talented attorneys and staff to provide the highest quality defense services to the people of Macomb County.”  

Freers-Cole succeeds Tom Tomko, who is retiring after serving as the county’s first public defender. 

Tomko was instrumental in establishing the office and building a foundation for providing quality indigent defense services in Macomb County. 

“Tom deserves tremendous credit for setting up this office and ensuring it could succeed,” Hackel said. “His dedication, vision and commitment to justice will benefit this county for decades to come.”