Taking Care of Business … Attorney Aisha M. Farooqi

TCB (Taking Care of Business) explores Hamtramck’s business community.This week we talk to a new attorney in town, Aisha M. Farooqi, who has an office on Jos. Campau and Trowbridge.
By Alan Madlane
How long have you been a practicing attorney?

Aisha M. Farooqi: I have been practicing law for two and a half years now.

Where did you attend law school, and when?

Farooqi: I graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy in 2012. Following my graduation, I decided to work on a passion project and traveled a bit. I passed the (Michigan) bar exam in 2015.

Do you specialize in certain areas of law?

Farooqi: My practice is focused in the following areas: immigration law, family law, wills, some criminal defense, and traffic violations. In addition, I assist my clients with the drafting of contracts (land, business, etc.).

Your business card lists two office locations, one in Hamtramck and one in Farmington Hills. Do you split your time between them evenly, or tend to be at one or the other more?

Farooqi: I spend the majority of my time at my main office in Hamtramck. I use the Farmington Hills office to meet with my clients from the west side.

So you’re obviously in courts in both Wayne and Oakland Counties, at least; can you compare your experiences in the two court systems?

Farooqi: The majority of the cases I have handled have been in the counties of Macomb and Wayne. I worked for a well-known law firm in Macomb County, which allowed me to meet many of the prosecuting attorneys, as well as judges, in Macomb County.

I have a special place in my heart for Wayne County, as I was a law clerk for a Judge at the 3rd Circuit Court. In addition, I was sworn in as an attorney at the 3rd Circuit Court. I have been very lucky to encounter some amazing prosecuting attorneys and judges in both counties.

Are there any areas of law you’re not practicing in yet, but hope to add to your practice in the future?

Farooqi: I would love to add entertainment law to my practice, however it’s unusual to come across individuals seeking entertainment lawyers in the metro-Detroit area.

Would you like to share any personal information with our readership?

Farooqi: My family and I moved to the United States of America in 1993. It didn’t take long for me to realize that America is the land of opportunity. I whole-heartedly believe in America and the values for which it stands: life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

I became an attorney because I believe that it is my duty to stand up for the voiceless, and to empower those who have been marginalized for far too long. My goal is to leave a positive impact in this world, and I intend to do so by advocating zealously for those in need, and giving back to my community.

I’d also like to point out that I absolutely love the diversity and the liveliness of the city of Hamtramck! I am so grateful to have met some wonderful people in this amazing city! Thank you for your generosity!

On a related note, what do you like to do in your off time? Any hobbies, or other interests outside of practicing law?

Farooqi: I enjoy reading, and writing poetry and screenplays. I’m a huge film buff. I have made my own short film, which focuses on the dehumanization of the homeless community. I’ve submitted it to film festivals, and am hoping for the best!

Well, thank you so much for taking some time out of your busy schedule to talk to us, Aisha.

Farooqi: Thank you so much!

Aug. 10, 2018