Jeff Burtka

Jeff Burtka

Attorney · George Mason University Law School

Jeff Burtka joined the Nolo staff as a Legal Editor in 2023 and focuses on DUI and estate planning law.  

Legal career. Jeff is a member of the State Bar of Michigan. He began his legal career as a law clerk to the judges of the Arlington County Circuit Court in Virginia. He then served as a prosecutor for six years before working in health care law and estate planning. Immediately before joining Nolo, Jeff was a staff attorney at the Institute of Continuing Legal Education in Michigan, where he wrote and edited legal education resources for Michigan attorneys.

Education. Jeff has a bachelor’s degree in English and history from the University of Michigan and a law degree from George Mason University.

Other pursuits. Jeff also has worked as a freelance writer with a focus on articles about sports, the outdoors, and the environment. His articles, such as  How a majority Black school in Detroit shook up the world of lacrosse, have appeared in The Guardian, Outside, Crain’s Detroit Business, Civil Eats, and more. He enjoys running, coaching youth sports, and spending time outdoors.

Articles By Jeff Burtka

Kansas’s Teen Driver’s License and Insurance Requirements
In Kansas, there are different paths for young drivers to obtain a license depending on their age, experience, and purpose for driving. Read about the different types of licenses and permits and the restrictions that apply.
Oregon’s Teen Driving Laws and Insurance Requirements
In Oregon, drivers younger than 18 years of age are subject to certain restrictions. Before obtaining a full, unrestricted driver’s license, Oregon requires teen drivers to hold an instruction or learner’s permit and then a provisional license for a period of time.
Driving Without a Valid (or on a Suspended) License in Kansas
Like in other states, it is unlawful to drive without a license in Kansas. Read about the penalties for driving on a suspended or without a valid license in Kansas and the exceptions to the license requirement.
Georgia Teen Driving Laws, Insurance Requirements, and Driver's License
If you're a teen or a parent of a teen, you might want to know what Georgia's teen driving laws and insurance requirements are.
When Can You Cross a Double Yellow Line?
Crossing a solid double yellow line usually is illegal, but there might be exceptions in your state.
Illegal U-Turn Laws and Penalties
Making an illegal U-turn can mean a traffic ticket or even worse consequences if there’s a car accident.
Fighting an Unsafe Lane Change Ticket
How much an unsafe lane change ticket costs and how to fight it.
Mississippi’s Speeding Laws and Penalties
Mississippi has two types of speeding laws: “absolute limits” and a “basic speeding law.” This article explains the differences between the two and the consequences of a speeding violation.
Speeding Tickets in Tennessee
Read about Tennessee’s speed limits and the consequences of getting a speeding ticket.