Outside of his professional work, DeFranco is also an accomplished endurance athlete who competes in Ironman triathlons around the world. He has competed in races on four continents, demonstrating a commitment to discipline, perseverance, and goal-setting that mirrors his approach to public service. Most recently, he completed Ironman Australia in 2025, an achievement that reflects his dedication to pushing himself both personally and professionally.
DeFranco earned his Juris Doctor from Case Western Reserve University School of Law, where he graduated with honors in both criminal law and litigation concentrations. During law school, he gained hands-on courtroom experience representing clients as a certified student attorney and was recognized for academic excellence and advocacy.
Now a candidate for the 51st District Court, DeFranco is running to continue his lifelong commitment to justice and public service. Throughout his career, he has stood as a voice for victims of crime—ensuring their stories are heard, their rights are protected, and that those who harm others are held accountable. As a judge, he seeks to carry that mission forward by upholding the law with fairness, integrity, and compassion, while maintaining a steadfast commitment to protecting the community and delivering justice for victims.
Carmen J. DeFranco is a highly respected trial attorney and career prosecutor with nearly two decades of experience handling some of the most serious and complex criminal cases in Michigan. Currently serving as a Principal Trial Attorney in the Major Crimes Unit at the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office, DeFranco has extensive experience prosecuting violent felonies, including armed robbery, carjacking, and homicide. In this role, he manages a full felony docket, conducts jury trials, makes charging decisions in high-profile cases, and supervises and mentors junior attorneys.
In addition to his work in major crimes, DeFranco serves as the Felony Drug Court Prosecutor in Macomb County, a role he finds both deeply rewarding and inspiring. Through this work, he has witnessed firsthand the transformative impact that treatment courts can have on individuals struggling with substance use disorders. DeFranco strongly believes that accountability and rehabilitation can go hand in hand, and he has been proud to support participants as they work toward recovery, stability, and a second chance. His experience in drug court has reinforced his belief that treatment courts are a vital component of the justice system, improving outcomes for individuals while enhancing public safety.
Prior to his work in Macomb County, DeFranco served as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in both Wayne and Oakland Counties. In Wayne County, he was selected for the Public Integrity Unit, where he investigated and prosecuted cases involving public officials, as well as officer-involved shootings. His work required close coordination with law enforcement agencies and public communications teams on very high-profile matters. In Oakland County, he handled assignments in the trial and appellate divisions, gaining broad experience in criminal litigation and appellate advocacy. Earlier in his career, he also worked in private practice, representing clients in criminal and civil matters.
