Dexter resident named to Michigan Court of Appeals

By Jo Mathis Legal News Mark Boonstra of Dexter and Michael Riordan of Plymouth have been appointed to the Michigan Court of Appeals, 3rd and 1st districts, respectively. "Mike and Mark both bring tremendous legal experience to the courts,'' said Gov. Rick Snyder, who made the appointments Friday. "These individuals are highly respected by the legal and judicial communities and I am confident they will serve as excellent judges." Boonstra has served as senior principal for Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC since 1985. He previously worked as a law clerk for Judge Ralph B. Guy Jr., of the United States District Court, Eastern District of Michigan. "I told the governor I was honored and humbled and I would do my best to make this an appointment of which he could be proud," Boonstra told The Legal News. "I look at this as a new challenge and a new opportunity. I'll do the best I can to serve the people of the state of Michigan well. There were a number of excellent candidates and I regret we couldn't all be appointed." Boonstra works with numerous professional organizations, including the State Bar of Michigan, Michigan Supreme Court Committee on Model Civil Jury Instructions, Michigan Judges Retirement Board, Federal Bar Association, and the Washtenaw County Bar Association. He earned a bachelor's degree in political science from Michigan State University, a master's degree in applied economics and a law degree, both from the University of Michigan. Riordan has served as an assistant U.S. attorney since 1998. He previously worked as an attorney for the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and as general counsel for Northwestern Mutual Financial. Riordan is a member of the State Bar of Michigan Board of Commissioners and the Fraternal Order of Police, and serves as secretary for the University of Detroit Mercy Law Alumni Association and president of the Federal Bar Association. He is also a past president of the Incorporated Society of Irish American Lawyers. Riordan holds a bachelor's degree from Michigan State University and a law degree from the University of Detroit Mercy. Riordan's appointment fills the vacancy created by the resignation of Brian Zahra, who was appointed to the Michigan Supreme Court. Boonstra's appointment fills the vacancy created by the resignation of Richard Bandstra. Riordan's appointment runs through Jan. 1, 2013. He will have to seek election in 2012 for a new term. Boonstra's appointment runs through Jan. 1, 2013. He will have to seek election in 2012 for the balance of the term which ends in 2014. Published: Thu, Mar 22, 2012

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