Varnum LLP

Varnum labor and employment attorneys Maureen Rouse-Ayoub and Ashleigh Draft recently presented at the MiBiz360 Talent & HR Summit, hosted by the Michigan Chamber of Commerce. In two sessions, they addressed questions and shared practical guidance for complying with Michigan's Earned Sick Time Act.

The U.S. Department of Labor has expanded its Voluntary Fiduciary Correction Program, allowing employers to self-rectify common violations like late contributions and loan repayments without DOL approval. Varnum employee benefits attorneys Charles Russman, John Arendshorst, Carolyn Sullivan, and paralegal Kristy De Vos explain how this aligns with recent IRS updates. Read more about the new procedures here: https://lnkd.in/g_R8qedh

Varnum partner Richard Hewlett has been recognized in Michigan Lawyers Weekly's Hall of Fame, Class of 2025. With over 30 years of experience in litigation and construction law, Rich's expertise and leadership have earned him widespread respect. Read more about his career and contributions here: https://lnkd.in/gyRgrckF

Varnum partner Lauren Potocsky has been recognized as an Up & Coming Lawyer by Michigan Lawyers Weekly. This award honors attorneys in their first 10 years of practice who demonstrate exceptional leadership, ambition, and accomplishments. Read more about Lauren's career here: https://lnkd.in/gjyWFWd7

A new Michigan law that takes effect April 2 updates parentage rights for families using assisted reproduction. Varnum attorneys Marisa McConnell and Janelle Haggadone explain how this legislation provides legal clarity and security for those welcoming children through IVF, gamete donation and other assisted reproductive technologies. Read more to learn how this law affects legal parentage and estate planning for families:

We were excited to host an inspiring panel discussion in celebration of Women's History Month! Our incredible panelists shared their personal journeys, insights on community involvement, the power of mentoring, and how they balance career success with personal life. ? Moderated by Carroll Velie of the Grand Rapids Art Museum, the panel featured: -LaSandra Gaddy, President/CEO, Grand Rapids Community Foundation -Erin Gravelyn, Senior Director, Global Field Marketing & Michigan Customer Experience at MillerKnoll -Alison Mast, President/Senior Managing Director, Northern Trust -Jessica Karbowski Weare, General Counsel, Grand Valley State University ? Thank you to everyone who joined us!

Varnum partner Dave Caldon has been recognized as a "Go To Lawyer" for Commercial Real Estate by Michigan Lawyers Weekly. This award honors top Michigan attorneys for their expertise in complex real estate matters. Congratulations, Dave! https://lnkd.in/gNGFjkBK

Varnum attorney Justin Kirk has been accepted into the Greater Naples Chamber prestigious Associate Leadership Collier program. As one of only 42 individuals in this year’s cohort, Justin will have the opportunity to engage with local government, education and economic development in Collier County, while further developing his leadership skills. Read more about the appointment here: https://lnkd.in/gP58W2Hp

A full-service deal team represented Cole's Quality Foods, Inc., a leader in the frozen bread industry, in its sale to Ontario-based Furlani Foods, a portfolio company of Entrepreneurial Equity Partners. Varnum's team was led by Christopher George and Michael Wooldridge, and included Lauren Parker, Conor Boland, Timothy Gordon, Zachary Meyer, Luis Avila, Charles Russman, Staci DeRegnaucourt, Matt Eugster, Linsey Gleason, Steven Morren and Shawn Strand. Read more about the transaction here: https://lnkd.in/g2PJ6aDa

We are excited to welcome partner Samuel Kokoszka to Varnum's Real Estate Practice Team in our Birmingham office. With a focus on commercial real estate and leasing, as well as corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions and licensing, Sam brings a wealth of experience to the firm. Read more about Sam's arrival here: https://lnkd.in/gqGySptj