Smith Haughey establishes trial advocacy scholarship in memory of Tom Weibel

by Cynthia Price
and from local reports

Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge has announced the creation of the firm’s Thomas M. Weibel Trial Advocacy Scholarship.  This annual scholarship will allow a young attorney in the firm to attend an intensive program provided by the National Institute of Trial Advocacy.

The scholarship was created in memory of the late Thomas M. Weibel, an attorney with Smith Haughey from 1975 until his passing in January 2010.  Having spent his entire career at one firm, Weibel was highly respected both within Smith Haughey and in the local legal community for his skills as a litigation attorney and his willingness to mentor others.

The biography featured in the Smith Haughey newsletter at the time of his death stated: “His door was always open to advise and consult, and he gave freely of his time to coach an argument, revise a jury submission, or fine-tune litigation strategy. He was indeed a role model to countless young attorneys, not only for his skill, but also for his civility to opposing counsel and judges.”

The article also noted, “... he never left a favor unreturned or even the smallest kindness unacknowledged. “

Weibel was a member of  The Association of Trial Lawyers of America, Michigan Trial Lawyers Association, and Michigan Defense Trial Counsel. His practice concentrated on transportation and school district liability litigation, business and securities, and construction law and litigation.

“In a firm replete with excellent trial attorneys, Tom was one of those considered a true ‘go-to guy,’” said attorney and long-time colleague John C. O’Loughlin.  “Many a trial attorney in our firm, and others around the state, learned a great deal from watching him in action.  So his presence as a mentor will be missed by our firm most of all.”

Smith Haughey Rice and Roegge has offices in Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, and Traverse City, and more than 85 attorneys and counselors. For more, visit www.shrr.com.

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