Donald E. Barris, a founding member of Detroit law firm Barris, Sott, Denn, & Driker, PLLC, died in Bingham Farms on Monday, May 10, at the age of 91.
Barris attended Wayne State University where he earned his bachelor’s degree and law degree.
His legal career began in 1939 with Friedman, Meyers, & Keys.
In 1968, he co-founded Barris, Sott, Denn, & Driker PLLC, and remained with the firm until his death.
During his 70-year legal career, Barris cultivated a reputation as a highly-skilled, tenacious and passionate litigator.
His loyalty and allegiance to his clients was legendary, according to friends and colleagues. Their legal problems became his personal crusades and, those close to him say, he spared no effort on behalf of his clients.
Throughout his career at Barris, Sott, Denn, & Driker, he litigated zoning, construction, real estate, corporate, partnership and probate matters.
Employers and labor unions also turned to Barris as an impartial mediator or arbitrator in resolving labor disputes. He also represented Motown and owner Berry Gordy during the heydays of Motown in Detroit.
Barris was a devoted advocate for pro bono legal work. He was also a generous benefactor to his alma mater, Wayne State University Law School.
Outside his commitment to his legal practice and his clients, Barris was a mentor to his fellow attorneys and a loving husband to Miriam, now deceased, and father to William G. Barris, Peggy Ellman and Karen Bragman.
Barris also was survived by seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
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