Michelle was born and raised in Effingham County.   She graduated from Effingham High School in 2004 and Lake Land College in 2005 with an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice.

She is no stranger to the local county government community as her family has been involved with the legal side of the community for many years.  It is common to hear her referred to as “Donna or John’s Daughter” as her mother has held the position of Deputy Effingham County Circuit Clerk for more than 40 years and her father has served as an area police office over a similar timeframe.

Michelle enjoys volunteering and giving back to the community. She is currently a board member for the Effingham County Fair, where she is in charge of the Parking and Gate crews, as well as the Effingham County Fair Queen Pageant. She volunteers with the Effingham County Pork Producers in assisting with needs at their fair stand and even working their stand when needed. She is a Loy Cemetery Trustee, helping with the cemetery south of Effingham that her Great-Great Grandfather established.  Michelle is a member of the Effingham County Youth Livestock Auction, assisting 4-H youth and also serving as a 4-H Youth leader.  In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends and attending St. Louis Cardinals games.

Michelle joined Orr Law in 2024.  She is a legal assistant to Lance B. Freezeland in the areas of criminal, divorce, traffic, family and juvenile cases.