Detroit Mercy Law 2L student Daniel Williams served in the U.S. Marines for eight years.
Photo courtesy of Daniel Williams
Photo courtesy of Daniel Williams
By Sheila Pursglove
Legal News
After graduating high school, and lacking direction and purpose, Daniel Williams was drawn to the United States Marine Corps because of its reputation.
“My grandfather was a Marine, and I saw it as an opportunity to challenge myself and make something of myself,” says Williams, now a 2L at Detroit Mercy Law.
Williams joined the Marine Corps as an infantry rifleman, served a special duty assignment as a Marine Corps Embassy Security Guard, and completed his second enlistment as an infantry Squad Leader. He traveled to 13 countries, spending a total of four years overseas.
“I enjoyed being able to learn about other cultures and being able to immerse myself in diverse communities,” he says.
“I originally planned to make a full 20-year career in the Marine Corps, but over time my goals evolved, and I ultimately chose to transition out and pursue new challenges in civilian life.”
Williams—who previously earned an associate’s degree in criminal justice/law enforcement administration from American Military University— used his GI Bill to earn a bachelor’s degree; and while attending the University of Michigan-Dearborn full time, where he earned his degree in political science, worked as a Contract Security Specialist at Rock Security LLC, a company within the Rocket Mortgage Family of Companies, connected through founder and Chairman, Dan Gilbert.
“Working with Rock Security allowed me to adjust to civilian life and be a part of Detroit’s growth,” Williams says.
“My role allowed me to not only be part of one of the biggest companies in Detroit and help the cities expansion, but also able to be a part of several notable events such as the Rocket Mortgage Classic, Grand Prix, Detroit Fireworks, and NFL Draft.”
He headed to Detroit Mercy Law in 2024, drawn to the school for its local reputation, success with placing graduates in the field, and location in downtown Detroit. A Junior member of the Detroit Mercy Law Review as it approaches Volume 103, his particular legal interest is criminal law and civil litigation.
“I chose to attend law school because I had always had a deep respect for the law and the role of lawyers in advocating for others,” he says.
“My time at UDM Law has been outstanding, the faculty and staff are professional and helpful, and the student class are collaborative in their approach to the challenging curriculum.
“I have the advantage of having life experience that allows me to stay focused and disciplined, which was very helpful during my first year in law school. Where my life experience comes short, I can still often look to my fellow classmates for help and guidance.”
This summer, Williams interned for Judge Terrence Berg at the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, where his work within the chambers involved analyzing arguments, complex issues, and researching legal questions.
“My time at the Court was helpful because I was able to observe experienced litigators in various practice areas and assist clerks with legal research and writing,” he says.
Originally from Center Line in Macomb County, Williams continues to live in the county, making his home in Clinton Township with his fiancée. The two, who will wed next summer, share their home with their dog and four cats.
In his leisure time, Williams enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, exploring new restaurants, and riding or working on his Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
Legal News
After graduating high school, and lacking direction and purpose, Daniel Williams was drawn to the United States Marine Corps because of its reputation.
“My grandfather was a Marine, and I saw it as an opportunity to challenge myself and make something of myself,” says Williams, now a 2L at Detroit Mercy Law.
Williams joined the Marine Corps as an infantry rifleman, served a special duty assignment as a Marine Corps Embassy Security Guard, and completed his second enlistment as an infantry Squad Leader. He traveled to 13 countries, spending a total of four years overseas.
“I enjoyed being able to learn about other cultures and being able to immerse myself in diverse communities,” he says.
“I originally planned to make a full 20-year career in the Marine Corps, but over time my goals evolved, and I ultimately chose to transition out and pursue new challenges in civilian life.”
Williams—who previously earned an associate’s degree in criminal justice/law enforcement administration from American Military University— used his GI Bill to earn a bachelor’s degree; and while attending the University of Michigan-Dearborn full time, where he earned his degree in political science, worked as a Contract Security Specialist at Rock Security LLC, a company within the Rocket Mortgage Family of Companies, connected through founder and Chairman, Dan Gilbert.
“Working with Rock Security allowed me to adjust to civilian life and be a part of Detroit’s growth,” Williams says.
“My role allowed me to not only be part of one of the biggest companies in Detroit and help the cities expansion, but also able to be a part of several notable events such as the Rocket Mortgage Classic, Grand Prix, Detroit Fireworks, and NFL Draft.”
He headed to Detroit Mercy Law in 2024, drawn to the school for its local reputation, success with placing graduates in the field, and location in downtown Detroit. A Junior member of the Detroit Mercy Law Review as it approaches Volume 103, his particular legal interest is criminal law and civil litigation.
“I chose to attend law school because I had always had a deep respect for the law and the role of lawyers in advocating for others,” he says.
“My time at UDM Law has been outstanding, the faculty and staff are professional and helpful, and the student class are collaborative in their approach to the challenging curriculum.
“I have the advantage of having life experience that allows me to stay focused and disciplined, which was very helpful during my first year in law school. Where my life experience comes short, I can still often look to my fellow classmates for help and guidance.”
This summer, Williams interned for Judge Terrence Berg at the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, where his work within the chambers involved analyzing arguments, complex issues, and researching legal questions.
“My time at the Court was helpful because I was able to observe experienced litigators in various practice areas and assist clerks with legal research and writing,” he says.
Originally from Center Line in Macomb County, Williams continues to live in the county, making his home in Clinton Township with his fiancée. The two, who will wed next summer, share their home with their dog and four cats.
In his leisure time, Williams enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, exploring new restaurants, and riding or working on his Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
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