Butzel attorney and shareholder Michael C. Decker has been appointed Co-Practice Department Chair for Litigation, alongside attorneys George B. Donnini and Bruce L. Sendek. Butzel’s Litigation and Dispute Resolution Practice Department represents clients in a range of complex issues and areas of litigation.
Based in Butzel’s Troy office, Decker concentrates his practice in the areas of construction and construction litigation.
Decker represents and counsels construction companies and contractors on all aspects of both public and private projects, from inception to completion. He has experience drafting and negotiating contracts, subcontracts, and other agreements and prosecuting and defending performance, payment, and delay related claims on behalf of construction companies and contractors, as well as owners and sureties.
He has experience prosecuting and defending claims concerning the Miss Dig Act and violations on behalf of construction companies and contractors. He has prosecuted and defended such claims before state and federal courts, state and public agencies, and arbitration and mediation panels.
Decker has experience assisting owners and contractors with residential construction related matters. Specifically, he has assisted owners and contractors drafting and negotiating residential construction contracts, subcontracts, and other agreements and resolving performance and payment related issues, as well as prosecuting and defending claims.
He also represents and counsels businesses and business professionals with day-to-day business-related issues.
Decker has been recognized as a Rising Star in Business Litigation in 2013-2024 by Super Lawyers. He has been recognized as a Top Lawyer in Construction Litigation in 2017-2025 by DBusiness.
He is a graduate of Wayne State University Law School (2011). He received a Bachelor of Science from Central Michigan University in 2007.
Decker is a member of the State Bar of Michigan and the State Bar of Florida. He is admitted to practice in various courts in both Michigan and Florida.
• • •
Dickinson Wright is pleased to announce the election of new member attorneys in the firm’s Detroit and Troy offices effective January 1.
Below are Dickinson Wright’s local new member attorneys for 2025:
Jared Christensen is a member in the firm’s Detroit office. He focuses his practice on complex commercial and business litigation with experience in a variety of areas, including, shareholder and member disputes, automotive litigation, trade secret and non-compete litigation, consumer credit disputes and fraud cases, banking litigation, and other general commercial litigation and arbitration. Christensen is a member of the State Bar of Michigan and serves as a member of the Governing Council of the Litigation Section. He also serves in the capacity of general counsel for a number of K-12 and other education clients, providing a wide range of legal services, including policy formation, risk-mitigation, regulatory compliance, labor negotiation, employment counseling and litigation, and commercial litigation.
Erin Cobane is a member in the firm’s Troy office. She focuses her practice on real estate. She counsels clients on diverse corporate real estate projects across the country, encompassing purchase and sale transactions, leasing agreements, entitlements and land use/zoning issues, environmental matters, and construction projects. She is a member of the Oakland County Bar Association and the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan. Cobane received her B.A. from the University of Michigan and her law degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law.
Callie Root is a member in the firm’s Troy office. She concentrates her practice on mergers and acquisitions, transactional tax matters, and private equity. She is a member of the State Bar of Michigan’s Corporate, Business Law, and Taxation sections, and is a member of the Illinois State Bar Association. Root received her B.A. from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, her law degrees from the University of Oklahoma School of Law and Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law.
• • •
Nicholas Schroeck has been named the next dean of the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. While the university conducted a national dean search, Schroeck served as interim dean. He is a leader in legal education, an environmental law expert, and a member of the State Bar of Michigan.
Schroeck joined the faculty in 2018. In his prior role as associate dean for experiential education, he served on the School of Law’s leadership team, led the clinical program and externship program, and secured support for the experiential education programs from community partners, alumni, and friends of Detroit Mercy Law.
Schroeck has been a member of the State Bar of Michigan throughout his legal career. His practice supports communities in and around Detroit and the transnational Great Lakes region. The Michigan State Bar Foundation named him a 2024 Fellow in recognition of his leadership, professional excellence, and service to the community.
As a sought-after environmental law expert, his scholarship includes more than 100 publications, presentations, and media appearances on legal issues impacting environmental justice. His research focuses on reducing air and water pollution, promoting mass transportation, and advancing citizen suit enforcement of environmental laws.
After joining Detroit Mercy Law, Schroeck launched the environmental law clinic and also taught upper-level environmental law courses. Through his clinical work, Schroeck has litigated cases for several prominent environmental advocacy organizations and strengthened local, state, and federal environmental protections through policy advocacy.
Prior to joining academia, he worked with the Great Lakes Environmental Law Center, the National Wildlife Federation, and the Great Lakes Commission. During the Flint Water Crisis, the Genesee County Prosecutor’s Office named him a special assistant prosecutor to aid in their investigations.
“I am proud to serve as dean of Detroit Mercy Law,” stated Schroeck. “The mission of educating the complete lawyer in the Jesuit and Mercy traditions brought me to Detroit Mercy Law and continues to inspire me. We will continue to lean into our mission and traditions as we work with a renewed focus on training the next generation of complete lawyers to serve clients and our community in the pursuit of justice.”
• • •
Foley, Baron, Metzger, & Juip PLLC is pleased to announce the election of attorney Brian J. Richtarcik into the membership of the firm, effective January 1.
Richtarcik is a trial and appellate attorney with more than 20 years of experience in private practice. He maintains a practice defending healthcare providers in civil rights claims brought under 42 U.S.C. §1983, particularly focusing on healthcare delivery in county jails and state prisons. He also has experience representing healthcare professionals, including physicians, mid-level medical providers, and nurses in medical malpractice litigation.
Since 1997, Richtarcik has built an appellate practice, regularly appearing before both the Michigan Court of Appeals and the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals. His practice also encompasses complex civil litigation, business transactions and litigation, real estate matters, estate planning, and employment law.
• • •
The shareholders of Foster, Swift, Collins, & Smith PC have elected Bryan Cermak to shareholder as the firm enters 2025.
Cermak practices in the firm’s Southfield office as a trial lawyer and is a former general counsel for an international, publicly traded company. He litigates business disputes and other commercial and complex cases, and he serves his corporate clients as a comprehensive legal, risk management and business advisor.
Cermak joined the firm in April 2023 as a then lateral hire. Cermak also hosts a video series titled “Life, Law & Lessons.”
• • •
Kemp Klein is pleased to announce that Kemp Klein Shareholder and Chairman Emeritus Ralph A. Castelli was named to Michigan Lawyers Weekly’s “Go To Lawyers” Commercial Real Estate List.
Castelli focuses his practice on business and real estate transactions as well as estate planning and general corporate law. He is a negotiator who analyzes and problem solves complicated issues and uses his decades of experience to prevail on behalf of his clients.
Castelli maintains an “AV” peer review rating with Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory. He has also been listed as one of the top 5% of attorneys in Michigan by Super Lawyers Magazine. In 2025 The Best Lawyers in America® recognized Castelli as a Best Lawyer for his work in Corporate Law, Real Estate Law, and Trusts and Estates. Castelli has been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America® since 2013. He was named Lawyer of the Year by The Best Lawyers in America® in 2019. He was recognized by DBusiness Magazine as a 2025 DBusiness Top Lawyer for his work in Corporate Law. In Addition, Castelli was named to the “Leaders in Law” Class of 2018 by Michigan Lawyers Weekly.
• • •
Varnum attorney Kathryn Ahlbrand has been appointed to the Council of the Young Lawyers Section of the State Bar of Michigan.
Established in 1940, the Young Lawyers Section provides education, information and analysis on issues of particular interest and value to young lawyers through meetings, seminars, public service initiatives and more.
As a member of the Tax Planning, Compliance, and Litigation Team at Varnum, Ahlbrand’s practice includes audit support and tax compliance. She also advises clients on tax issues regarding mergers and acquisitions,
restructurings, integrations and operating model effectiveness.
Her experience involves overseeing quarterly international tax reporting and audit engagements for multinational corporations in accordance with U.S. GAAP as well as handling tax compliance matters including returns and informational reporting for international entities. Additionally, she has supported the tax-free spin-off of a major automotive mobility company, providing guidance through challenging transitions.
Ahlbrand graduated from Michigan State University College of Law and earned her undergraduate degree from Wayne State University.
• • •
Burris Law is pleased to share that founder and owner Kelly Burris has been reappointed by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer to the Western Michigan University (WMU) Board of Trustees. Burris’ new term began on January 1, 2025, and extends through December 31, 2032.
Burris earned a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering from WMU, among her other advanced degrees in materials science and law.
“I am deeply honored to continue serving on the Western Michigan University Board of Trustees,” said Burris. “As an alumna, this role holds special meaning for me, and I look forward to supporting WMU’s commitment to innovation, education, athletics, and excellence. Together, we will continue to provide educational opportunities to underrepresented communities and empower the next generation of leaders.”
• • •
Dykema recently announced that the firm’s Detroit office will relocate to One Kennedy Square. The building is located at 777 Woodward Avenue adjacent to Campus Martius Park in the heart of Downtown Detroit’s Central Business District. Dykema’s new office will house nearly 100 attorneys and staff in approximately 25,701 square feet of office space. The firm expects to move into the new location by late Summer 2025.
“Dykema’s move back to the Central Business District is an important milestone for the firm and we appreciate the dedication and expertise of the REDICO team in making the experience as seamless as possible,” said Len Wolfe, Dykema’s chair and CEO. “This move reflects our commitment to remain a vibrant part of the City of Detroit, and we are thrilled to be a part of the downtown business community as we plan for our centennial anniversary next year. We are proud of our long-standing history in Detroit and are excited to continue contributing to the city’s revitalization and growth.”
Dykema’s Detroit office move aligns with other recent and pending office developments in other markets, all with a focus on flexible, functional space and anticipated future growth. The firm’s Bloomfield Hills office is set to relocate to a new office building in Birmingham in late 2025.
Dykema also announced that its Executive Board elected Connor Walby and Ryan Warsh of the Bloomfield Hills office as new members to the firm effective January 1.
Walby, Product Liability and Class Action Litigation, is a litigator who defends automotive manufacturers and corporate entities in complex product liability, general liability, and commercial litigation. He represents Fortune 100 companies and their complex products across the country with a focus on the design and manufacture of motor vehicles.
Walby also coordinated consumer warranty and discovery matters across several jurisdictions, including California, represented the world’s largest franchisor in leasing, real estate, and franchising disputes, and defended a large waste management corporation in various environmental matters.
Walby earned a law degree from Wayne State University Law School and a B.A. from James Madison College at Michigan State University.
Warsh, Real Estate, focuses his practice on a range of real estate matters, including acquisitions and dispositions, financing, and commercial leasing. Her clients are made up of lenders and borrowers, buyers and sellers, landlords, tenants, and real estate developers.
Warsh has experience in a variety of transactional areas, including industrial, retail, multifamily, office, and healthcare. She also advises members of the firm’s corporate practice group on the real estate components of mergers, acquisitions, and other similar types of transactions.
Warsh earned a law degree and a B.A. from the University of Michigan.
• • •
Several local Clark Hill attorneys have been named 2025 Leading Lawyers:
—Birmingham
Dana L Abrahams
Jennifer A. Bielfield
Paul W. Coughenour
William B. Dunn
John L. Gierak
Randi P. Glanz
Edward C. Hammond
Douglas R. Kelly
Peter B. Kupelian
J. Thomas MacFarlane
Paul S. Magy
Daniel H. Minkus
Charles E. Murphy
Thomas F. Sweeney
Linda M. Watson
Anne-Marie V. Welch
—Detroit
Anthony A. Agosta
William G Asimakis Jr.
Fred W. Batten
Jay M. Berger
Daniel J. Bretz
Connie M. Cessante
David M. Cessante
Martin E. Crandall
Thomas M. Dixon
Daniel J. Dulworth
Maria Fracassa Dwyer
Peter S. Ecklund Jr.
Cynthia M. Filipovich
David M. Hayes
Kevin S. Hendrick
John J. Hern, Jr.
Edward J. Hood
Thomas M. Keranen
Christopher A McMican
William A. Moore
Michael P. Nowlan
Daniel J. Scully
Richard A. Sundquist
Duane L. Tarnacki
Christopher M. Trebilcock
Timothy D. Wittlinger
• • •
Kitch Attorneys & Counselors is pleased to announce the promotion of several attorneys:
—Principal
Brett Asher, Mt. Clemens
Francisco Lozano, Mt. Clemens
—Associate Principal
Arooj Anjum, Mt. Clemens
Christian Graziani, Mt. Clemens
Brittany Lawler, Mt. Clemens
—Senior Associate
Laura DeMarco, Detroit
Samantha Norris, Mt. Clemens
• • •
Howard & Howard is pleased to welcome Ronald Gardner to the firm. He will join the business and corporate practice group in the Royal Oak office.
With more than 40 years of experience, Gardner has built a career in trust and estate planning. He has established himself as a practitioner in the areas of trusts, estates, and estate planning, working with both individuals and corporate fiduciaries. His experience includes managing and distributing trusts and estates of varying sizes, from insolvent estates to those exceeding $10 million. Additionally, he represents beneficiaries of trusts and estates, ensuring their interests are well-protected.
Gardner started his career at Ann Arbor Trust Co. where he served as an assistant vice-president and trust officer from 1975 to 1984. During his nine-year tenure, he administered trusts, guardianships, and estates, gaining invaluable experience in fiduciary responsibilities. He then practiced law as an associate with a local Ann Arbor firm, specializing in estate planning and trust and estate administration.
In 1997, Gardner founded Gardner and Associates PC, a firm dedicated to providing comprehensive legal services in trusts, estates, and estate planning.
Gardner graduated from Michigan State University with his bachelor’s degree and earned his law degree from the University of Detroit School of Law.
• • •
Brooks Kushman attorney Bryan Hart was recently appointed as vice chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee of the Intellectual Property Owner Association (IPO) for 2025 by the IPO Board.
The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee includes several members from across the country who focus on diversity issues and related matters. As vice chair, Hart will help maintain organizational focus around and execution of diversity and inclusion programming offered by the committee. Hart has been active within IPO for many years and has previously held the role of secretary in the committee.
Hart specializes in all areas of patent law, with a focus on preparing and prosecuting patent applications in mechanical, electrical, and software technologies. He has handled numerous applications across diverse fields, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, machine vision, robotics, vehicle sensor cleaning, airbags, and additive manufacturing. His litigation experience spans federal district courts, the International Trade Commission, and inter partes review proceedings before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board.
• • •
Collins Einhorn Farrell is pleased to announce that attorneys Laura A. Alton and Erin J. Rodenhouse have been elected partners in the firm.
Alton is a partner in the firm’s Transporation Liability practice group. Her individual practice focuses on first-and third-party automotive defense and other general liability matters. Alton’s experience includes no-fault, commercial litigation, premises liability, construction accident & defect liability, and immigration law.
Rodenhouse is a partner in the firm’s Appellate practice group. Her individual practice focuses on appeals in legal malpractice, insurance coverage, disciplinary matters, general liability, and auto-negligence cases. Rodenhouse practices in Michigan’s appellate courts and the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.
• • •
Harness IP is pleased to announce that patent attorney Jennie Turchyn, Detroit Metro office, has been elected as a principal in the firm.
Concentrating on preparing and prosecuting patent applications in the mechanical, electromechanical, and chemical arts, Turchyn’s practice is dedicated to helping clients maximize the value of their innovations. She has an understanding of the necessity and opportunity that strong IP protections provide at every stage of development.
• • •
Maddin Hauser is pleased to announce that Michael J. Hamblin has joined the firm. Hamblin’s experience encompasses a range of business and real estate litigation. Throughout his nearly 25 years of practice, he has handled an array of litigation, including partnership and shareholder disputes, minority shareholder oppression, Michigan sales commission disputes, breach of contract, and real estate disputes. Hamblin joins the firm’s litigation and risk advisory and employment and workforce management practice groups.
Hamblin has appeared in state and federal courts, including the United States Supreme Court and the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. He earned his law degree from Wayne State University Law School.
Maddin Hauser is also pleased to announce that Michigan Lawyers Weekly named Steven D. Sallen a “Go-To” lawyer in commercial real estate for the second time. Sallen was previously recognized in 2021 and selected for Michigan Lawyers Weekly’s Hall of Fame in 2020. He has been recognized by Best Lawyers in America, Super Lawyers, Leading Lawyers, and DBusiness Top Lawyers.
Sallen has enjoyed a distinguished career at Maddin Hauser, serving as president, CEO, Environmental Law Group chair, and Real Estate Practice Group co-chair. He concentrates his practice in real estate, environmental, and corporate law.
In a very personal project for Maddin Hauser, Sallen negotiated the long-term lease for a new Class A office location. The firm’s historic 2024 move occurred following nearly forty years in their former location.
Sallen developed the Commission-Safe® Marketing Program, a proven system of re-useable tools and checklists, training, and consulting for commercial real estate brokers. Many Southeast Michigan premier brokers have adopted the system since its creation in 2009.
Based in Butzel’s Troy office, Decker concentrates his practice in the areas of construction and construction litigation.
Decker represents and counsels construction companies and contractors on all aspects of both public and private projects, from inception to completion. He has experience drafting and negotiating contracts, subcontracts, and other agreements and prosecuting and defending performance, payment, and delay related claims on behalf of construction companies and contractors, as well as owners and sureties.
He has experience prosecuting and defending claims concerning the Miss Dig Act and violations on behalf of construction companies and contractors. He has prosecuted and defended such claims before state and federal courts, state and public agencies, and arbitration and mediation panels.
Decker has experience assisting owners and contractors with residential construction related matters. Specifically, he has assisted owners and contractors drafting and negotiating residential construction contracts, subcontracts, and other agreements and resolving performance and payment related issues, as well as prosecuting and defending claims.
He also represents and counsels businesses and business professionals with day-to-day business-related issues.
Decker has been recognized as a Rising Star in Business Litigation in 2013-2024 by Super Lawyers. He has been recognized as a Top Lawyer in Construction Litigation in 2017-2025 by DBusiness.
He is a graduate of Wayne State University Law School (2011). He received a Bachelor of Science from Central Michigan University in 2007.
Decker is a member of the State Bar of Michigan and the State Bar of Florida. He is admitted to practice in various courts in both Michigan and Florida.
• • •
Dickinson Wright is pleased to announce the election of new member attorneys in the firm’s Detroit and Troy offices effective January 1.
Below are Dickinson Wright’s local new member attorneys for 2025:
Jared Christensen is a member in the firm’s Detroit office. He focuses his practice on complex commercial and business litigation with experience in a variety of areas, including, shareholder and member disputes, automotive litigation, trade secret and non-compete litigation, consumer credit disputes and fraud cases, banking litigation, and other general commercial litigation and arbitration. Christensen is a member of the State Bar of Michigan and serves as a member of the Governing Council of the Litigation Section. He also serves in the capacity of general counsel for a number of K-12 and other education clients, providing a wide range of legal services, including policy formation, risk-mitigation, regulatory compliance, labor negotiation, employment counseling and litigation, and commercial litigation.
Erin Cobane is a member in the firm’s Troy office. She focuses her practice on real estate. She counsels clients on diverse corporate real estate projects across the country, encompassing purchase and sale transactions, leasing agreements, entitlements and land use/zoning issues, environmental matters, and construction projects. She is a member of the Oakland County Bar Association and the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan. Cobane received her B.A. from the University of Michigan and her law degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law.
Callie Root is a member in the firm’s Troy office. She concentrates her practice on mergers and acquisitions, transactional tax matters, and private equity. She is a member of the State Bar of Michigan’s Corporate, Business Law, and Taxation sections, and is a member of the Illinois State Bar Association. Root received her B.A. from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, her law degrees from the University of Oklahoma School of Law and Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law.
• • •
Nicholas Schroeck has been named the next dean of the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. While the university conducted a national dean search, Schroeck served as interim dean. He is a leader in legal education, an environmental law expert, and a member of the State Bar of Michigan.
Schroeck joined the faculty in 2018. In his prior role as associate dean for experiential education, he served on the School of Law’s leadership team, led the clinical program and externship program, and secured support for the experiential education programs from community partners, alumni, and friends of Detroit Mercy Law.
Schroeck has been a member of the State Bar of Michigan throughout his legal career. His practice supports communities in and around Detroit and the transnational Great Lakes region. The Michigan State Bar Foundation named him a 2024 Fellow in recognition of his leadership, professional excellence, and service to the community.
As a sought-after environmental law expert, his scholarship includes more than 100 publications, presentations, and media appearances on legal issues impacting environmental justice. His research focuses on reducing air and water pollution, promoting mass transportation, and advancing citizen suit enforcement of environmental laws.
After joining Detroit Mercy Law, Schroeck launched the environmental law clinic and also taught upper-level environmental law courses. Through his clinical work, Schroeck has litigated cases for several prominent environmental advocacy organizations and strengthened local, state, and federal environmental protections through policy advocacy.
Prior to joining academia, he worked with the Great Lakes Environmental Law Center, the National Wildlife Federation, and the Great Lakes Commission. During the Flint Water Crisis, the Genesee County Prosecutor’s Office named him a special assistant prosecutor to aid in their investigations.
“I am proud to serve as dean of Detroit Mercy Law,” stated Schroeck. “The mission of educating the complete lawyer in the Jesuit and Mercy traditions brought me to Detroit Mercy Law and continues to inspire me. We will continue to lean into our mission and traditions as we work with a renewed focus on training the next generation of complete lawyers to serve clients and our community in the pursuit of justice.”
• • •
Foley, Baron, Metzger, & Juip PLLC is pleased to announce the election of attorney Brian J. Richtarcik into the membership of the firm, effective January 1.
Richtarcik is a trial and appellate attorney with more than 20 years of experience in private practice. He maintains a practice defending healthcare providers in civil rights claims brought under 42 U.S.C. §1983, particularly focusing on healthcare delivery in county jails and state prisons. He also has experience representing healthcare professionals, including physicians, mid-level medical providers, and nurses in medical malpractice litigation.
Since 1997, Richtarcik has built an appellate practice, regularly appearing before both the Michigan Court of Appeals and the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals. His practice also encompasses complex civil litigation, business transactions and litigation, real estate matters, estate planning, and employment law.
• • •
The shareholders of Foster, Swift, Collins, & Smith PC have elected Bryan Cermak to shareholder as the firm enters 2025.
Cermak practices in the firm’s Southfield office as a trial lawyer and is a former general counsel for an international, publicly traded company. He litigates business disputes and other commercial and complex cases, and he serves his corporate clients as a comprehensive legal, risk management and business advisor.
Cermak joined the firm in April 2023 as a then lateral hire. Cermak also hosts a video series titled “Life, Law & Lessons.”
• • •
Kemp Klein is pleased to announce that Kemp Klein Shareholder and Chairman Emeritus Ralph A. Castelli was named to Michigan Lawyers Weekly’s “Go To Lawyers” Commercial Real Estate List.
Castelli focuses his practice on business and real estate transactions as well as estate planning and general corporate law. He is a negotiator who analyzes and problem solves complicated issues and uses his decades of experience to prevail on behalf of his clients.
Castelli maintains an “AV” peer review rating with Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory. He has also been listed as one of the top 5% of attorneys in Michigan by Super Lawyers Magazine. In 2025 The Best Lawyers in America® recognized Castelli as a Best Lawyer for his work in Corporate Law, Real Estate Law, and Trusts and Estates. Castelli has been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America® since 2013. He was named Lawyer of the Year by The Best Lawyers in America® in 2019. He was recognized by DBusiness Magazine as a 2025 DBusiness Top Lawyer for his work in Corporate Law. In Addition, Castelli was named to the “Leaders in Law” Class of 2018 by Michigan Lawyers Weekly.
• • •
Varnum attorney Kathryn Ahlbrand has been appointed to the Council of the Young Lawyers Section of the State Bar of Michigan.
Established in 1940, the Young Lawyers Section provides education, information and analysis on issues of particular interest and value to young lawyers through meetings, seminars, public service initiatives and more.
As a member of the Tax Planning, Compliance, and Litigation Team at Varnum, Ahlbrand’s practice includes audit support and tax compliance. She also advises clients on tax issues regarding mergers and acquisitions,
restructurings, integrations and operating model effectiveness.
Her experience involves overseeing quarterly international tax reporting and audit engagements for multinational corporations in accordance with U.S. GAAP as well as handling tax compliance matters including returns and informational reporting for international entities. Additionally, she has supported the tax-free spin-off of a major automotive mobility company, providing guidance through challenging transitions.
Ahlbrand graduated from Michigan State University College of Law and earned her undergraduate degree from Wayne State University.
• • •
Burris Law is pleased to share that founder and owner Kelly Burris has been reappointed by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer to the Western Michigan University (WMU) Board of Trustees. Burris’ new term began on January 1, 2025, and extends through December 31, 2032.
Burris earned a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering from WMU, among her other advanced degrees in materials science and law.
“I am deeply honored to continue serving on the Western Michigan University Board of Trustees,” said Burris. “As an alumna, this role holds special meaning for me, and I look forward to supporting WMU’s commitment to innovation, education, athletics, and excellence. Together, we will continue to provide educational opportunities to underrepresented communities and empower the next generation of leaders.”
• • •
Dykema recently announced that the firm’s Detroit office will relocate to One Kennedy Square. The building is located at 777 Woodward Avenue adjacent to Campus Martius Park in the heart of Downtown Detroit’s Central Business District. Dykema’s new office will house nearly 100 attorneys and staff in approximately 25,701 square feet of office space. The firm expects to move into the new location by late Summer 2025.
“Dykema’s move back to the Central Business District is an important milestone for the firm and we appreciate the dedication and expertise of the REDICO team in making the experience as seamless as possible,” said Len Wolfe, Dykema’s chair and CEO. “This move reflects our commitment to remain a vibrant part of the City of Detroit, and we are thrilled to be a part of the downtown business community as we plan for our centennial anniversary next year. We are proud of our long-standing history in Detroit and are excited to continue contributing to the city’s revitalization and growth.”
Dykema’s Detroit office move aligns with other recent and pending office developments in other markets, all with a focus on flexible, functional space and anticipated future growth. The firm’s Bloomfield Hills office is set to relocate to a new office building in Birmingham in late 2025.
Dykema also announced that its Executive Board elected Connor Walby and Ryan Warsh of the Bloomfield Hills office as new members to the firm effective January 1.
Walby, Product Liability and Class Action Litigation, is a litigator who defends automotive manufacturers and corporate entities in complex product liability, general liability, and commercial litigation. He represents Fortune 100 companies and their complex products across the country with a focus on the design and manufacture of motor vehicles.
Walby also coordinated consumer warranty and discovery matters across several jurisdictions, including California, represented the world’s largest franchisor in leasing, real estate, and franchising disputes, and defended a large waste management corporation in various environmental matters.
Walby earned a law degree from Wayne State University Law School and a B.A. from James Madison College at Michigan State University.
Warsh, Real Estate, focuses his practice on a range of real estate matters, including acquisitions and dispositions, financing, and commercial leasing. Her clients are made up of lenders and borrowers, buyers and sellers, landlords, tenants, and real estate developers.
Warsh has experience in a variety of transactional areas, including industrial, retail, multifamily, office, and healthcare. She also advises members of the firm’s corporate practice group on the real estate components of mergers, acquisitions, and other similar types of transactions.
Warsh earned a law degree and a B.A. from the University of Michigan.
• • •
Several local Clark Hill attorneys have been named 2025 Leading Lawyers:
—Birmingham
Dana L Abrahams
Jennifer A. Bielfield
Paul W. Coughenour
William B. Dunn
John L. Gierak
Randi P. Glanz
Edward C. Hammond
Douglas R. Kelly
Peter B. Kupelian
J. Thomas MacFarlane
Paul S. Magy
Daniel H. Minkus
Charles E. Murphy
Thomas F. Sweeney
Linda M. Watson
Anne-Marie V. Welch
—Detroit
Anthony A. Agosta
William G Asimakis Jr.
Fred W. Batten
Jay M. Berger
Daniel J. Bretz
Connie M. Cessante
David M. Cessante
Martin E. Crandall
Thomas M. Dixon
Daniel J. Dulworth
Maria Fracassa Dwyer
Peter S. Ecklund Jr.
Cynthia M. Filipovich
David M. Hayes
Kevin S. Hendrick
John J. Hern, Jr.
Edward J. Hood
Thomas M. Keranen
Christopher A McMican
William A. Moore
Michael P. Nowlan
Daniel J. Scully
Richard A. Sundquist
Duane L. Tarnacki
Christopher M. Trebilcock
Timothy D. Wittlinger
• • •
Kitch Attorneys & Counselors is pleased to announce the promotion of several attorneys:
—Principal
Brett Asher, Mt. Clemens
Francisco Lozano, Mt. Clemens
—Associate Principal
Arooj Anjum, Mt. Clemens
Christian Graziani, Mt. Clemens
Brittany Lawler, Mt. Clemens
—Senior Associate
Laura DeMarco, Detroit
Samantha Norris, Mt. Clemens
• • •
Howard & Howard is pleased to welcome Ronald Gardner to the firm. He will join the business and corporate practice group in the Royal Oak office.
With more than 40 years of experience, Gardner has built a career in trust and estate planning. He has established himself as a practitioner in the areas of trusts, estates, and estate planning, working with both individuals and corporate fiduciaries. His experience includes managing and distributing trusts and estates of varying sizes, from insolvent estates to those exceeding $10 million. Additionally, he represents beneficiaries of trusts and estates, ensuring their interests are well-protected.
Gardner started his career at Ann Arbor Trust Co. where he served as an assistant vice-president and trust officer from 1975 to 1984. During his nine-year tenure, he administered trusts, guardianships, and estates, gaining invaluable experience in fiduciary responsibilities. He then practiced law as an associate with a local Ann Arbor firm, specializing in estate planning and trust and estate administration.
In 1997, Gardner founded Gardner and Associates PC, a firm dedicated to providing comprehensive legal services in trusts, estates, and estate planning.
Gardner graduated from Michigan State University with his bachelor’s degree and earned his law degree from the University of Detroit School of Law.
• • •
Brooks Kushman attorney Bryan Hart was recently appointed as vice chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee of the Intellectual Property Owner Association (IPO) for 2025 by the IPO Board.
The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee includes several members from across the country who focus on diversity issues and related matters. As vice chair, Hart will help maintain organizational focus around and execution of diversity and inclusion programming offered by the committee. Hart has been active within IPO for many years and has previously held the role of secretary in the committee.
Hart specializes in all areas of patent law, with a focus on preparing and prosecuting patent applications in mechanical, electrical, and software technologies. He has handled numerous applications across diverse fields, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, machine vision, robotics, vehicle sensor cleaning, airbags, and additive manufacturing. His litigation experience spans federal district courts, the International Trade Commission, and inter partes review proceedings before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board.
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Collins Einhorn Farrell is pleased to announce that attorneys Laura A. Alton and Erin J. Rodenhouse have been elected partners in the firm.
Alton is a partner in the firm’s Transporation Liability practice group. Her individual practice focuses on first-and third-party automotive defense and other general liability matters. Alton’s experience includes no-fault, commercial litigation, premises liability, construction accident & defect liability, and immigration law.
Rodenhouse is a partner in the firm’s Appellate practice group. Her individual practice focuses on appeals in legal malpractice, insurance coverage, disciplinary matters, general liability, and auto-negligence cases. Rodenhouse practices in Michigan’s appellate courts and the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.
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Harness IP is pleased to announce that patent attorney Jennie Turchyn, Detroit Metro office, has been elected as a principal in the firm.
Concentrating on preparing and prosecuting patent applications in the mechanical, electromechanical, and chemical arts, Turchyn’s practice is dedicated to helping clients maximize the value of their innovations. She has an understanding of the necessity and opportunity that strong IP protections provide at every stage of development.
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Maddin Hauser is pleased to announce that Michael J. Hamblin has joined the firm. Hamblin’s experience encompasses a range of business and real estate litigation. Throughout his nearly 25 years of practice, he has handled an array of litigation, including partnership and shareholder disputes, minority shareholder oppression, Michigan sales commission disputes, breach of contract, and real estate disputes. Hamblin joins the firm’s litigation and risk advisory and employment and workforce management practice groups.
Hamblin has appeared in state and federal courts, including the United States Supreme Court and the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. He earned his law degree from Wayne State University Law School.
Maddin Hauser is also pleased to announce that Michigan Lawyers Weekly named Steven D. Sallen a “Go-To” lawyer in commercial real estate for the second time. Sallen was previously recognized in 2021 and selected for Michigan Lawyers Weekly’s Hall of Fame in 2020. He has been recognized by Best Lawyers in America, Super Lawyers, Leading Lawyers, and DBusiness Top Lawyers.
Sallen has enjoyed a distinguished career at Maddin Hauser, serving as president, CEO, Environmental Law Group chair, and Real Estate Practice Group co-chair. He concentrates his practice in real estate, environmental, and corporate law.
In a very personal project for Maddin Hauser, Sallen negotiated the long-term lease for a new Class A office location. The firm’s historic 2024 move occurred following nearly forty years in their former location.
Sallen developed the Commission-Safe® Marketing Program, a proven system of re-useable tools and checklists, training, and consulting for commercial real estate brokers. Many Southeast Michigan premier brokers have adopted the system since its creation in 2009.
