Michael L. Elder

Mike, a Vietnam-era veteran and First Sergeant in Military Intelligence, is a former Deputy District Attorney. Prior to his becoming a District Attorney Mike spent 25 years with Pacific Bell in a variety of roles, including Right-of-Way contracts and Government Liaison. As a DDA he prosecuted high-profile crimes, healthcare, welfare and foster care fraud, election fraud, financial crimes and major fraud, homicides, and organized crime.

Mike has been part of some of the most notable criminal trials in Fresno history. Prior to becoming an attorney, he gained a unique perspective into the criminal justice system while serving as jury foreman for the Ewell family murder trial. The Ewell trial lasted the better part of a year and sparked national media attention. It was this experience that ignited his desire to be part of the legal system, and led to his career change from
business to law. Mike later served as co-counsel for the prosecution in the Larissa Schuster murder trial. This trial, which made national headlines, led to features on several media specials. He also served as co-counsel in the successful prosecution of Ramadan Abdullah, the shooter responsible for the death of Deputy Sheriff Erik Jon Telen.

Mike joined his former law professor Jeffrey G. Purvis as a founding partner in the law firm of Purvis and Elder in December 2011 and has continued his journey to become an advocate for honesty and integrity in the legal system.