Laurel F. McGiffert

Welcome, fellow Michiganders! Navigating the legal landscape can often feel overwhelming, whether you're dealing with personal matters or complex business challenges. When you're seeking professional guidance and a strong advocate on your side, finding a trusted and experienced lawyer is paramount. In the heart of Detroit, you'll find a highly regarded legal professional who has dedicated her career to serving the diverse needs of the Michigan community: Laurel F. McGiffert. While sadly, Ms. McGiffert passed away in early 2024, her legacy as a highly respected attorney and champion for diversity within the legal field continues to be an important part of Michigan's legal history. This article aims to inform you about her remarkable career and the types of legal support she offered, reflecting her enduring impact on the local legal scene. For those seeking legal assistance today, understanding the caliber of professionals who have shaped Michigan's legal framework can help you identify similar dedicated and skilled attorneys for your current needs.

Laurel F. McGiffert was a name synonymous with legal excellence and a deep commitment to justice in Michigan. For nearly four decades, she was a pivotal figure in the legal community, renowned for her sharp legal mind, unwavering dedication to her clients, and her pioneering efforts in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the legal profession. As a partner at Plunkett Cooney, one of the Midwest's oldest and largest law firms, she built a reputation as a formidable trial attorney, consistently achieving favorable outcomes for those she represented. Her work extended beyond the courtroom, as she also served as the firm's first Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, actively working to cultivate a more inclusive and representative legal workforce. Her distinguished career and numerous accolades underscore the significant impact she had on countless lives and the legal system in Michigan.

For those in Detroit and the surrounding areas, the office where Laurel F. McGiffert practiced was conveniently located at 535 Griswold St # 2400, Detroit, MI 48226, USA. This address places the firm in the vibrant downtown district of Detroit, a central and easily accessible location for residents across Southeast Michigan.

The Buhl Building, where the office is situated, is a well-known landmark in downtown Detroit. Its central position means it is readily accessible by various modes of transportation. If you're coming by car, there are numerous parking garages and lots available in the immediate vicinity, making it straightforward to find a spot. For those who prefer public transport, the office is within walking distance of several QLine stops, which connects various parts of downtown, Midtown, and New Center. Additionally, numerous SMART and DDOT bus routes serve the downtown area, offering convenient connections from neighborhoods throughout Detroit and its suburbs. The accessibility of this location means that individuals from Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County, and beyond could easily reach the firm to consult with their legal team. This central hub for legal services made it a practical choice for many Michigan residents seeking expert legal counsel.

Laurel F. McGiffert's extensive legal career covered a broad spectrum of practice areas, demonstrating her versatility and deep understanding of Michigan law. Her expertise allowed her to effectively represent a diverse range of clients, from individuals to governmental entities.

• Medical Malpractice Law: She was particularly renowned for her work in medical liability defense, representing healthcare professionals and institutions in complex cases. Her ability to dissect intricate medical and legal issues made her a highly sought-after attorney in this specialized field.

• Governmental Law: Ms. McGiffert had significant experience working with municipal entities, providing legal counsel and representation on various governmental matters. This included understanding the unique legal challenges faced by local governments and helping them navigate complex regulations and disputes.

• Civil Rights Law: Throughout her career, she demonstrated a strong commitment to civil rights, representing clients in cases that upheld fundamental rights and addressed injustices. Her work in this area highlighted her dedication to fairness and equality within the legal system.

• Employment Law: She also handled employment-related disputes, offering guidance and representation for both employers and employees on matters such as discrimination, wrongful termination, and workplace policies.

• General Litigation: Beyond these specialized areas, Laurel F. McGiffert was a highly skilled litigator capable of handling a wide array of civil disputes. Her trial experience and strategic approach made her an effective advocate in various courtroom settings.

• Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): She had extensive experience in ADR methods, including mediation and arbitration, often helping clients resolve disputes outside of traditional litigation, which could be more efficient and cost-effective.

Laurel F. McGiffert’s career was marked by numerous achievements and distinctions that underscored her exceptional legal acumen and commitment to the profession and community.

• Decades of Experience: With nearly 40 years in practice, Ms. McGiffert brought an unparalleled level of experience and insight to every case she handled, offering clients a seasoned perspective.

• Pioneering DEI Leadership: As the first Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Plunkett Cooney, she played a crucial role in shaping the firm's commitment to a more diverse and inclusive legal workforce, setting a precedent for others in the industry.

• Award-Winning Attorney: Her extensive list of accolades includes being named one of the "Most Influential Black Lawyers" by Savoy magazine, a "Best Lawyer in America," a Michigan "Super Lawyer," and a Dbusiness magazine "Top Lawyer." She also received honors from Michigan Lawyers Weekly, including "Hall of Fame" and "Women in the Law."

• Highly Rated Professional: She consistently received the highest rating (AV Preeminent™ Peer Review Rating) from Martindale-Hubbell, a testament to her high ethical standards and professional excellence as recognized by her peers.

• Community Involvement: Beyond her legal practice, Ms. McGiffert was actively involved in various community organizations, including serving on the Boards of Directors for the Oakland Mediation Center and the Power Company Kids Club, showcasing her dedication to giving back.

• Exceptional Trial Attorney: She was known for her meticulous attention to detail, incisive questioning, and ability to clearly explain complex legal and medical issues to juries, leading to a strong track record of success in jury trials.

While individual legal services typically do not offer traditional "promotions" or "special offers" like retail businesses, many reputable law firms, including Plunkett Cooney where Laurel F. McGiffert practiced, often provide initial consultations. These consultations can be an invaluable opportunity for prospective clients to discuss their legal needs, understand the scope of their case, and learn about the firm's approach without an initial financial commitment. It allows individuals to determine if the legal team is the right fit for their specific situation and to gain clarity on the potential legal pathways available to them. For specific details on current consultation policies or any available informational resources, it is always best to directly contact the firm.

For inquiries related to the enduring legacy of Laurel F. McGiffert, or for current legal needs and services offered by Plunkett Cooney, you can reach out using the following information:

Address: 535 Griswold St # 2400, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

Phone: (313) 965-3900

Mobile Phone: +1 313-965-3900

The firm's website would also be a valuable resource for learning more about their full range of services and connecting with other experienced attorneys.

For residents across Michigan, the legacy of Laurel F. McGiffert represents the very best of the legal profession. Her commitment to excellence, her deep understanding of diverse legal areas, and her unwavering dedication to clients made her an invaluable resource for anyone facing legal challenges. While Ms. McGiffert is no longer with us, her remarkable career at Plunkett Cooney set a high standard for legal representation in the state.

Michigan locals seeking legal assistance benefit from the robust foundation of experience and commitment to justice that professionals like Laurel F. McGiffert helped build. Her work in areas such as medical malpractice, governmental law, and civil rights directly addressed common and critical needs within our communities. The central location in Detroit, easily accessible from various parts of the state, further enhanced the convenience for clients.

When you choose a firm with a history of distinguished professionals like Laurel F. McGiffert, you are choosing a legal partner that understands the intricacies of Michigan law and is deeply invested in the well-being of its residents. Her legacy underscores the importance of finding legal counsel that is not only highly skilled but also deeply empathetic and community-focused. For any legal needs you might have, seeking out firms that uphold such high standards of professionalism and client dedication, as exemplified by Laurel F. McGiffert, remains the most suitable approach for Michiganders looking for reliable and effective legal solutions.