Get to Know: Rodrick K. Green, Lawyer Preacher

By Teresa Killeen
Washtenaw County Bar Association

Rodrick K. Green has practiced law primarily in Washtenaw and Wayne counties for more than 35 years. He was appointed to the Washtenaw County Board of County Road Commissioners on July 11, 2018; this term will expire on December 31, 2020.

Prior to his appointment to the board, he served as a trustee with Superior Township for 14 years; and is the immediate past chairman of SEMCOG (Southeast Michigan Council of Governments), which serves seven counties and nearly 5 million residents.

In addition, he has served as pastor of the New Hope Baptist Church in Ann Arbor for 12 years.

Green received his law degree from the University of Michigan, his undergraduate degree from Wayne State University School of Business, and a master’s degree in divinity from Virginia Union School of Theology.

Did you always know you wanted to be an attorney?
I have always wanted to be an attorney - ever since the age of 8. I think I watched too many Perry Mason movies and became obsessed!

What jobs did you have before you became an attorney?
Prior to becoming an attorney, I served as a Legislative Research Analyst in Lansing with the Democratic Party. I also worked for 10 years in the Wayne County Friend of the Court.

What is the biggest challenge facing you as an attorney today?
The biggest challenge I face today is dealing with difficult clients. It truly is an art. I formerly served as an Assistant Washtenaw County Prosecutor and my principal areas of practice are criminal and family law — two areas in which clients are seldom satisfied. The challenge is tempering expectations with realism and helping clients recognize the value of a practical outcome.

What would your second career choice have been if you had not become a lawyer?
Had I not become a lawyer I would be what I already am: a preacher! I enjoy the ministry and helping people in whatever way possible. My other love is writing, although I seldom have time to do much of it.

Any words of wisdom to pass on to new lawyers?
I think the one truly indispensable trait a new lawyer must possess is persistence. I cannot recall the many times I have been successful in my practice just because I persisted and did not give up in the face of defeat.

Tell us a little about your family:
My wife, Regina, and I have been married for 32 years and have a set of twins, Ashley and Laila. Our grandson is Asa.

What is your favorite movie or book?
It might seem strange but I like the Bible and “Godfather II.” The interaction of people and power intrigues me and makes up the stuff we call life.

Describe a perfect day off:
A perfect day off is certainly a day of travel. I truly enjoy learning about other cultures and watching how people live in other environments. I love traveling to Jamaica and I often go to Haiti for mission work. I’ve had the privilege of doing mission work in Kenya and Malawi as well. I would love to go to Japan. If not, I’ll take Chicago!

What are your favorite local hangouts?
My favorite hangout is church and I like the Real Seafood Company. Great place!
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Reprinted with permission from the Washtenaw County Bar Association’s newsletter, Res Ipsa Loquitur.

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