On Friday, August 1, 2025, the Michigan Attorney Discipline Board issued a notice announcing the 90-day suspension of attorney Jason Kolkema, effective July 31, 2025.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Jason Kolkema,” with case no. 23-74-GA.
The suspension arises from findings by Muskegon County Hearing Panel #2, which determined that Kolkema had committed the criminal offense of domestic violence. This ruling followed Kolkema’s guilty plea to the charge while he was a candidate for the position of Muskegon County Circuit Court Judge. The panel concluded that Kolkema engaged in conduct that did not uphold the expected standards of integrity required in the judiciary, violating several ethical guidelines.
Specifically, the panel identified that Kolkema’s actions were in breach of the Michigan Code of Judicial Conduct (MCJC) Canons 1, 2(A), and 2(B). Additionally, Kolkema’s conduct was found to violate the Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct (MRPC), particularly Rule 8.4(b) and MCR 9.104(5), which prohibits attorneys from engaging in conduct that violates criminal laws. He was also found to have failed to respond to lawful inquiries from disciplinary authorities, contravening MRPC Rule 8.1(a)(2). The panel also found the respondent’s conduct to have violated MCR 9.104(2)-(4).
Originally, the hearing panel imposed a 180-day suspension, alongside conditions related to his misconduct. However, after Kolkema filed a petition for review and a motion for a stay, the Board granted a temporary stay of the disciplinary action pending further review. Following a subsequent hearing, the Board modified the suspension duration, ultimately reducing it to 90 days while affirming the conditions set by the panel.
In addition to the suspension, Kolkema has been assessed a total cost of $2,663.18 related to the disciplinary proceedings.
According to Avvo.com, Mr. Kolkema is a criminal defense attorney in Muskegon, Michigan. He acquired his law license in Michigan in 1996.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
