Michael Vick switches defense attorneys

Dana Point, Calif. — Embattled quarterback Michael Vick, with his potential release to a halfway house looming, has switched criminal defense attorneys.

Daniel Meachum, an original member of Vick’s defense team, has signed an exclusive three-year contract to represent Vick.

“Yes, I’m representing Mike again,” said Meachum on Monday, adding that he “withdrew” from the case and was not fired from the original defense team.

Billy Martin of Washington, D.C., and Lawrence Woodward of Virginia Beach had been making court appearances for Vick in criminal matters. Martin and Woodward did not immediately return phone calls.

Meachum, of Atlanta, has represented high-profile athletes before. Joel Segal, Vick’s agent, will continue to represent him in football matters.

“My concern is helping Michael get back to his family and surround him with people like Julius Erving, Tony Dungy and Bishop T. D. Jakes. We need people around him who can help him and his family get back on the right track. I’m more interested in that than anything else.”

Vick may be released from federal prison to a halfway house in late May. His scheduled released date from federal custody on dogfighting charges is July 21.

He is currently suspended by the National Football League, while the Atlanta Falcons are seeking to trade his contract rights.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has refused to comment on Vick’s potential re-instatement.

“He has served his time,” Meachum said. “He’s remorseful for his mistakes. I hope they give him another opportunity, but football will take care of itself.”

Vick allegedly has written a book while in prison and is seeking co-authors and a publisher.

“That may or may not be in the making,” Meachum said. “That would too premature right now. But I’m committed to helping Mike get back on his feet.”