Automotive

Legal Services

Automotive

For more than a century, Kerr Russell has been serving and has helped grow the U.S. and global auto industry. As the industry continues to evolve, so have the capabilities and services provided by the firm to its auto-related clients. Our wealth of attorneys, with decades of automotive industry background, have assisted companies who want to survive, thrive and grow since Kerr Russell began its work in Detroit in the late 1800s.

We now help suppliers and automotive companies in countries around the world and are working actively with manufacturers to support vehicle research and development including creation of a national network of electric charging stations.

So what sets us apart? We have made a practice of getting to know you and being a part of your team. We get what keeps auto suppliers and dealership management up at night and we make it our goal to not only problem solve, but to strategically assist our clients in setting a course for the future. We provide our clients with practical legal solutions that help them manage risks in the complex industry in which they compete. We work with clients as a strategic partner to help keep their supply chain healthy, their customer relationships intact, and their products safe and compliant with the myriad regulations that affect the industry. And because we’re not the biggest firm in town, we’re more flexible and accessible than most, and never hand a client off, whether they be in Tennessee, California, Europe, Asia or Detroit.

REPRESENTATIVE MATTERS

Working with Electrify America in establishing the development of a national network of electric vehicle charging stations. Crafted form lease to be used with hotel chains, shopping malls, and other multi-use facilities whereby parking spaces are leased as charging stations

Represented Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. in the development and construction of numerous parts distribution centers between 250,000 and 1,000,000 square feet nationwide

Assisted Toyota in the procurement of entitlements, tax incentives, development and construction of a large research and development center in York Township, Michigan

Assisted Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. in negotiating the financing, acquisition and leasing of flagship dealerships in New York City for Audi and Volkswagen

Represented a Chinese auto manufacturing company related to the acquisition of controlling interest in a U.S.-based auto parts company with an enterprise value of $100,000,000

Represented a Chinese auto manufacturing company related to a $51,000,000 acquisition of a U.S.-based auto parts company

Formed multiple US subsidiaries of various Chinese enterprises

+Practicing Attorneys & Staff

Attorneys

Robert S. Anderson
Robert S. Anderson

Member

Jason W. Bank
Jason W. Bank

Member

Kevin T. Block
Kevin T. Block

Member

Richard C. Buslepp
Richard C. Buslepp

Member

James E. DeLine
James E. DeLine

Member

Daniel J. Ferris
Daniel J. Ferris

Member

John D. Gatti
John D. Gatti

Member

Fred K. Herrmann
Fred K. Herrmann

Member

Mark C. Knoth
Mark C. Knoth

Member

Eric I. Lark
Eric I. Lark

Member

Kate M. McCarroll
Kate M. McCarroll

Member

Miroslava Orduño Rincón
Miroslava Orduño Rincón

Member

Michael A. Sneyd
Michael A. Sneyd

Member

Jeffrey A. Brantley
Jeffrey A. Brantley

Of Counsel

James R. Cambridge
James R. Cambridge

Of Counsel

Michael D. Gibson
Michael D. Gibson

Of Counsel

Kurt R. Vilders
Kurt R. Vilders

Of Counsel

+Related Insights

June 29, 2023

Lordstown Motors vs Foxconn: 3 takeaways for automakers

The EV start-up Lordstown Motors Corporation filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in Delaware federal court on June 27, 2023. 

September 14, 2022

Changing Suppliers in These Changing Times

Four steps for manufacturers to avoid legal pitfalls of re-sourcing supply Disruptions in the supply chain are leading manufacturers to seek alternate sources, often involving termination of a contract, which can lead to a number of legal pitfalls. James DeLine recently recently outlined how manufacturers can avoid these pitfalls to ensure a smooth transition for DBusiness.

June 6, 2022

Lemon Law in the Age of Electric Vehicles

The still-developing technology and supply chains for Electric Vehicles (EVs) have spawned a new age in Lemon Law and Consumer Protection actions.

October 19, 2021

Jason Bank Discusses Planning for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy on OESA's Automotive Insiders

Kerr Russell attorney Jason Bank was recently featured on OESA’s podcast, Automotive Insiders. Listen as he discusses what automotive businesses can do before filing a Chapter 11 bankruptcy for a better outcome with creditors.

March 31, 2021

Kenneth Lombardo Discusses Business Succession Planning for Automotive Suppliers

Kerr Russell attorney Kenneth Lombardo was recently featured on OESA’s podcast, Automotive Insiders. Listen as Ken, who has been representing automotive suppliers for 25 years, explains why business succession planning is important in the automotive industry.

September 15, 2020

Max Sneyd Discusses Force Majeure Clauses During A Global Pandemic On OESA's Automotive Insider Podcast

Kerr Russell attorney Michael "Max" Sneyd was recently featured on OESA's podcast, Automotive Insiders. Listen as Max shares how Force Majeure clauses have been applied to COVID-19 and the way future clauses will be drafted.

April 23, 2020

Jim DeLine Discusses Suppliers' Rights on OESA's Automotive Insiders Podcast

OESA recently launched a new podcast, Automotive Insiders, and Kerr Russell attorney Jim DeLine was their second guest. Listen as Jim shares top lessons that can help today’s suppliers manage their resumption of production during and after this pandemic.

September 17, 2019

Autonomous Vehicle Legislation Update

Other posts to consider: What You Need To Know About The Auto No-Fault Law Marijuana in the Workplace and its Impact on Company Policies One Year Later: Michigan’s Legislation Combating The State’s Opioid Crisis

June 18, 2018

Michigan Lawyers Weekly publishes "Negotiating Uncertainty: Legal Options for Manufacturers Confronting Tariffs" by attorneys Daniel Ferris, Derek Boyd

Kudos to Daniel Ferris and Derek Boyd whose article “Negotiating Uncertainty: Legal Options for Manufacturers Confronting Tariffs," was picked up by Michigan Lawyers Weekly.

June 4, 2018

Download our white paper "Negotiating Uncertainty: Legal Options for Manufacturers Confronting Tariffs" by Daniel Ferris and Derek Boyd

Negotiating Uncertainty: Legal Options for Manufacturers Confronting Tariffs," written by Kerr Russell attorneys Daniel Ferris and Derek Boyd.

March 16, 2018

Kerr Russell's Max Sneyd quoted in Forbes' article "First Death Of A Pedestrian Struck By An Autonomous Vehicle May Set Tone For Lawyers And Liability"

Kerr Russell member Max Sneyd (intellectual property, automotive) is quoted in the Forbes article "First Death Of A Pedestrian Struck By An Autonomous Vehicle May Set Tone For Lawyers And Liability" by David Kiley.

January 26, 2018

Download Kerr Russell's updated firm brochure and overview of services

Kerr Russell is proud of Detroit. We are proud to have had a seat at the table here since 1874. Our exceptional attorneys understand the unique challenges facing business leaders. Our legal solutions are prompt, accurate, economical, and focused around your needs in every area. We know Michigan business like the back of our hands.

January 15, 2018

Honoring the legacy of Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr.

On Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and every day, we at Kerr Russell honor Reverend King’s leadership and his legacy as well as the critical importance of diversity and opportunity in this great land of ours. Strength comes from difference; a multiplicity of voices brings positive change; understanding and inclusion inspire creativity and innovation.

August 9, 2016

“Legal Update - "Second Circuit Pumps Brakes on General Motors and "Free and Clear" Asset Sales" – By Jason W. Bank, Chair of Kerr Russell’s Bankruptcy and Restructuring Practice.

Seven years after speeding its way through a bankruptcy court approved transformation to a new company, General Motors faces a major roadblock. The Second Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled that vehicle owners may pursue GM for successor liability for vehicle defect claims that arose prior to its bankruptcy filing.
+Related News

June 30, 2020

Kerr Russell Attorney Installed As Federal Bar Association Chapter President

Fred K. Herrmann is the new President of the Federal Bar Association, Eastern District of Michigan Chapter.

April 14, 2020

Kerr Russell's Support for Manufacturers Highlighted with Michigan Manufacturers Association

Mark C. Knoth was interviewed by the Michigan Manufacturers Association (MMA). He discusses how Kerr Russell is well-suited for the manufacturing sector. The full article can be found on page 10 HERE.

March 17, 2020

Coronavirus/COVID-19 Business Continuity:  A Message to Our Community, Clients and Friends

Kerr Russell is committed to its community, clients and people. As the world navigates through the impact of COVID-19 (coronavirus), we want to assure you that Kerr Russell is committed to supporting our community, clients and people as effectively as we have through every other crisis our Nation has encountered over our firm’s nearly 150-year history. Our firm is fully operational: We have made sure that our lawyers and staff are able to safely and effectively serve our clients’ needs and continue operations on an uninterrupted basis. Most of our people

January 16, 2020

Patricia Schabath, Jeffery May Featured in Crain's Detroit Business

Congratulations to Patricia Schabath and Jeffrey May for being featured in this week’s Crain’s Detroit Business “People on the Move.” Both were named members (partners) of the firm, effective January 1. You can view the Crain’s piece online HERE.

January 6, 2020

Patricia Schabath and Jeffrey May named members at Kerr Russell

Attorneys Jeffrey A. May and Patricia C. Schabath were recently named members (partners) at Kerr Russell. The two were selected at the end of 2019 and their promotions are effective as of January 1, 2020.

June 12, 2019

Kerr Russell Attorneys Prevail in Arbitration Defeating a $48 Million Claim

Kerr Russell attorneys, James E. DeLine and Matthew L. Powell, prevailed in arbitration by defeating a part supplier's $48 million claim against a Tier 1 automotive client.  The two also obtained an award of $2.4 million in damages against the supplier.

September 20, 2018

Kerr Russell recognizes our 2018 dbusiness Top Lawyers in Metro Detroit honorees

Kerr Russell recognizes this year’s dbusiness Top Lawyers in Metro Detroit honorees - 21 attorneys, many for multiple practice areas.

September 20, 2018

Kiefer Foundation Awards $50,000 in Scholarships to Winners of Hands Free Driving Contest

The Kiefer Foundation announced the winners of its Hands Free Driving Contest, Wednesday, Sept. 19 in a press conference at Detroit Police Headquarters, awarding $50,000 worth of scholarships to five winners.

September 18, 2018

Max Sneyd quoted in Forbes article "Elon Musk Sued By Rescue Diver Following Twitter Attacks"

Kerr Russell member Max Sneyd(intellectual property) is quoted in the Forbes article "Elon Musk Sued By Rescue Diver Following Twitter Attacks" by David Kiley.

September 5, 2018

Daniel Ferris serves as editor of "Damages and Remedies in Michigan" (4th edition) for Institute of Continuing Legal Education

Kudos to Kerr Russell member Daniel Ferris who served as editor of the recently published Damages and Remedies in Michigan, a leading litigation treatise published by the Institute of Continuing Legal Education. Fellow editors included Barbara A. Patek, Mark Granzotto, and David H. Freedman. You can order the publication here- from the website:

September 5, 2018

Daniel Ferris serves as editor of "Damages and Remedies in Michigan" (4th edition) for Institute of Continuing Legal Education

Kudos to Kerr Russell member Daniel Ferris who served as editor of the recently published Damages and Remedies in Michigan, a leading litigation treatise published by the Institute of Continuing Legal Education. Fellow editors included Barbara A. Patek, Mark Granzotto, and David H. Freedman.

August 22, 2018

Cross-industry panel addresses "Engaging the Experienced Workforce" at Kerr Russell/OESA hosted seminar

Kerr Russell, in partnership with the Original Equipment Suppliers Association, hosted a half-day seminar "Engaging Experienced Employees" on August 22. Thank you to OESA's Ginger Juncker for her expert leadership and facilitation and to Drew Rhodes for creating this opportunity for Kerr Russell to support. 

August 15, 2018

Eric Lark (corporate law) and Fred Herrmann (antitrust law) named Best Lawyers® 2019 "Lawyers of the Year" in Detroit

Congratulations to Eric Lark and Fred Herrmann who were named the best lawyers 2019 "Lawyers of the Year" in Detroit for corporate law and antitrust law respectively. Only a single lawyer in each practice area and community is honored with a "Lawyer of the Year" award.

July 22, 2018

Automotive Hall of Fame Gala honors Steve Kiefer and Kiefer Foundation - Mark Knoth, Kiefer Foundation board member, attends

On July 19, Kerr Russell member Mark Knoth attended The Automotive Hall of FameGala, where Steven Kiefer was honored for his groundbreaking work with The Kiefer Foundation to end distracted driving. Mark serves on the board of the Foundation. Fellow attendee Chrissie Wywrot of Chrissie Wywrot, Inc. shared this image and description on LinkedIn. With her permission, we are sharing here as well.

July 20, 2018

Daniel Ferris and Derek Boyd's "Navigating Uncertainty: Legal Options for Manufacturers Confronting Tariffs" included in OESA News publication

Kudos to Daniel Ferris and Derek Boyd whose article "Navigating Uncertainty: Legal Options for Manufacturers Confronting Tariffs" has been published in OESA News 2018 Third Quarter Edition 1.

July 9, 2018

Kerr Russell - DBusiness Magazine's "Faces of Corporate Law 2018"

Kerr Russell is proud to serve as DBusiness Magazine's "Faces of Corporate Law" 2018. Partners pictured: Jackie Klima (construction/surety), Mike Carroll (construction/surety), Miroslava Orduno Rincon (immigration), and Rich Buslepp (corporate).

March 27, 2018

View this important message from Mark Wahlberg and The Kiefer Foundation to #JustDrive and end distracted driving

Please take a moment to view this important video from Mark Wahlberg and The Kiefer Foundation. Kerr Russell supports ending distracted driving, and we encourage our clients and all businesses to implement policies and practices to end distracted driving. Kerr Russell member Mark Knoth serves on the board of the Kiefer Foundation. Thank you, Mark, for your leadership and support of this initiative.

March 24, 2018

Kerr Russell, James DeLine added as Legal Counsel for Original Equipment Suppliers Association's Tooling Council

Kerr Russell is pleased to announce that James DeLine will begin serving as the Legal Counsel for OESA’s Tooling Council beginning March 28.

March 16, 2018

Kerr Russell member Daniel Ferris supports Covenant House of Michigan

Kudos to Kerr Russell member Daniel Ferris for his community leadership and for his support of Covenant House Michigan​.

March 12, 2018

Hour Magazine salutes "Michigan 2017 Super Lawyers: The Top Women," including Kerr Russell's Joanne Swanson, Katherine Cser, Anna Valk

The March 2018 Hour Magazine includes a special advertising section saluting "Michigan 2017 Super Lawyers: The Top Women." Kerr Russell honorees include: Joanne Geha Swanson, civil litigation defense - since 2006 Katherine Cser, employment and labor - since 2014 - also named to "Rising Stars" list Anna Valk, real estate - since 2016 (not listed in the magazine, but recognized by "Super Lawyers") 

March 9, 2018

Kevin Block featured in Wayne State University Law School "Raising the Bar" newsletter

From Wayne State University Law School's "Raising the Bar" newsletter.

February 22, 2018

PHOTOS: Kevin Block participates in Wayne State Law panel on benefits of joining the State Bar of Michigan Business Law Section

Thanks to Wayne State University Law School for this opportunity, and thank you to Kaylee Place, director of marketing and communications, for these great photos.

February 15, 2018

Jason Bank, new member of Detroit Athletic Club

Congratulations to Kerr Russell member Jason Bank (bankruptcy, restructuring) on becoming a member of the Detroit Athletic Club. Other Kerr Russell partners who belong to the DAC include Mark Cunningham, Dan Schulte, and Kurt Vilders. Associate Stephen Reaume is also a member.

February 14, 2018

Fred Herrmann named among Michigan Lawyers Weekly's "Leaders in the Law," Class of 2018

Congratulations to Kerr Russell member Fred Herrmann (antitrust, litigation, dispute resolution) who was just named among Michigan Lawyers Weekly's "Leaders in the Law" Class of 2018.

February 12, 2018

Eric Lark re-elected chair of Northville Township Planning Commission

Congratulations to Kerr Russell member Eric Lark who was recently re-elected chair of the Northville Township Planning Commission. He has served as chair since January 1, 2016. He has been a member of the planning commission since January 1, 2013.

January 29, 2018

Jim DeLine serves as an editor of ABA's recently published Antitrust Class Actions Handbook, Second Edition

Congratulations to Jim DeLine, member, who served as an editor of the American Bar Association's recently published Antitrust Class Actions Handbook, Second Edition. Jim also worked on the first edition. From the preface: "The Global Private Litigation Committee and the Trial Practice Committee of the Section of Antitrust Law are pleased to present this Handbook on Antitrust Class Actions, Second Edition.

January 16, 2018

ACG/TMA co-host, Kerr Russell sponsors "Automotive Landscape: An Inside Look at a Driver of the Global Economy"

The Association for Corporate Growth Detroit​/Turnaround Management Association​ Detroit joint breakfast “The Automotive Landscape: An Inside Look at a Driver of the Global Economy” was held on January 16 at the Detroit Athletic Club. Kerr Russell is a silver sponsor of TMA. Presenters included Michael Robinet, Managing Director, IHS Markit​’s Automotive Global Advisory, and Peter Nagle, IHS Markit​’s Automotive Senior Automotive Economist, North American Industry Analysis.

January 3, 2018

Kerr Russell highlighted in Best Lawyers - Business, Winter 2017 issue

Look for Kerr Russell attorneys and advertising (pages 92-95) in the Best Lawyers - Business, Winter 2017 issue. Earlier in 2017, a number of Kerr Russell's attorneys and practice areas were honored with U.S. News and World Report Best Lawyers recognition.

December 18, 2017

Kerr Russell team makes holiday donations to Capuchin Soup Kitchen, Wigs 4 Kids, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Ann Arbor, and Children's Hospital of Michigan

One of our traditions here at Kerr Russell is to hold a holiday raffle to benefit three local charities as well as to conduct a toy drive for local children. This year's raffle (many of the beautiful and festive prizes picture here) raised a record total of $3,450 which will be divided equally among three organizations: Capuchin Soup Kitchen, Wigs 4 Kids of Michigan, Inc., and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Ann Arbor.

December 12, 2017

Kerr Russell, an Automation Alley member

Automation Alley is Michigan’s leading nonprofit technology and manufacturing business association, connecting industry, academia and government to fuel Southeast Michigan’s economy and accelerate innovation. Automation Alley focuses its efforts on innovation and technology, entrepreneurship, talent development, defense and international business, providing resources, funding and actionable intelligence to help members grow and prosper in the digital age.

December 2, 2017

Detroit Bar Association's "Jingle Mingle" held on November 30 at the Hard Rock Cafe Detroit (photos)

Kerr Russell member Fred Herrmann offers holiday cheer to friends old and new!

November 30, 2017

Merry and bright ... Kerr Russell welcomes the holiday season

It's a time to celebrate, reflect and remember. However you mark the holidays, we hope your days are filled with warmth and thankfulness, good times, and endless cheer. As another year draws to a close, we at Kerr Russell are grateful to you. You give purpose to our work and add meaning to our relationships. Your trust is a cherished gift. Enjoy these images as we get our offices ready to celebrate the holiday season. Design by Mandy Lark of Lark Interior Design.

November 16, 2017

Culture of Connection - new Kerr Russell ad to appear in Michigan Lawyers Weekly and dbusiness

Kerr Russell introduces the second ad in the new "Est. in Detroit 1874" series: "A culture of connection." The piece emphasizes the firm's 143-year presence in Detroit as part of the larger business and legal community. "We are relationship focused. We know our people and our clients are the lifeblood of our firm."

November 11, 2017

Detroit Free Press features Detroit Chinese Business Association US/China Auto Expo, Kerr Russell

Great coverage from the Detroit Free Press of the Detroit Chinese Business Association US/China Auto Expo - excerpt from the article (which can be found in its entirety here) follows: DCBA, meanwhile, had a busy week hosting the 2017 USA China Auto Expo & Forum in Dearborn with more than 20 major Chinese auto suppliers on hand.

November 4, 2017

Daniel Ferris appointed Chair of the Drafting Committee of the State Bar of Michigan Representative Assembly

Daniel J. Ferris, member, has been appointed Chair of the Drafting Committee of the State Bar of Michigan Representative Assembly. In 1971, the State Bar Board of Commissioners requested the Supreme Court create a "representative assembly".

November 3, 2017

Kerr Russell launches new advertising in upcoming issues of dbusiness and Crain's Detroit

With this month's issue of dbusiness, focused on Top Lawyers in Metro Detroit, Kerr Russell launches its new brand advertising with "A Track Record of Results." Working with Identity Public Relations and Marketing, Kerr Russell's marketing team developed the creative to emphasize the firm's longstanding place in Detroit's legal and business history.

November 1, 2017

Kerr Russell ranked in the 2018 U.S. News - Best Lawyers® "Best Law Firms" list nationally in 1 practice area and regionally in 17 practice areas

U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers, for the eighth consecutive year, announce the "Best Law Firms" rankings.

October 21, 2017

Mike Gibson and Jim Case, members, play in US/China Auto Cup golf classic in Shanghai

Mike Gibson and Jim Case, members, played in the US/China Auto Cup golf classic in Shanghai October 21 and 22, and Team USA ended up winning the cup! Congrats! Looking good, gentlemen!

October 16, 2017

Kerr Russell supports Detroit Athletic Club (October 2017 DAC News)

From the October 2017 DAC News ... We are proud of Detroit. We are proud to have had a seat at the table here since 1874. Our exceptional attorneys understand the unique challenges facing business leaders. Our legal solutions are prompt, accurate, economical, and focused around your needs in every area, including business law, labor and employment, immigration, mergers and acquisitions, real estate and construction, healthcare, medical practices, tax, contract negotiation, restructuring, automotive, manufacturing, and commercial litigation.

September 27, 2017

business Magazine covers Kerr Russell's participation in Detroit Chinese Business Association International Golf Outing

Kerr Russell was well-represented at the Detroit Chinese Business Association (DCBA) International Golf Open.

September 11, 2017

Daniel Ferris, part of Original Equipment Suppliers Association's Young Leadership Council graduating class

Congratulations to Daniel Ferris (depicted fifth from the left on the back row in the above image) who is a member of the latest Original Equipment Suppliers Association (OESA) Young Leadership Council's graduating class: "This week, we 'graduated' our 4th Young Leadership Council. Best of luck as you continue to grow in your careers."

August 21, 2017

Daniel Ferris inducted into Covenant House Michigan Young Professionals Society

Congratulations to Daniel Ferris who was inducted into Covenant House Michigan Young Professionals Society last week.

August 14, 2017

Broc Gullett profiled in Detroit Legal News

Broc Gullett was featured in the May 19, 2016 issue of Detroit Legal News.

August 4, 2017

Daniel Ferris appointed Co-Chair of the Professional Liability & Health Care Section of Michigan Defense Trial Counsel

Congratulations to Daniel Ferris who was recently appointed Co-Chair of the Professional Liability & Health Care Section of Michigan Defense Trial Counsel. Dan handles matters involving class action, commercial disputes, corporate law, employment law, insurance, licensing, litigation, products liability, and professional liability defense.

August 1, 2017

From Crain's Detroit: Partners acquire Linear AMS back from Moog (Kerr Russell mentioned)

From Crain's Detroit: East Aurora, N.Y.-based Moog Inc. has sold Livonia-based Linear AMS Inc. back to the subsidiary's founder and a partner after owning the additive manufacturing company for less than two years.