Just a few years after earning his undergraduate degree, cum laude, from the University of Michigan, and his law degree, cum laude, from University of Detroit, Dan co-founded and managed what became one of the most highly regarded insurance defense law firms in the state, successfully handling complex and high exposure cases in state and federal trial courts. During that time, as well as his tenure with Zausmer, he has been involved with a number of notable matters, including a $2 million dispute over a faulty climate system in a sugar storage facility, an 18-year environmental cleanup action centering on a rural property used as dump site by urban and suburban polluters, and the wrongful death claims of three workers killed in a coal dust explosion at the Ford River Rouge manufacturing facility.

Dan’s efforts and contributions at the appellate level have helped to shape the law in Michigan. His cases before the Michigan Supreme Court prompted the justices to formally adopt the common law doctrine known as the “Firefighter’s Rule” in negligence matters, and the doctrine of res ipsa loquitur in medical practice actions specifically. He also lends his vast experience as a case evaluator in the Oakland and Wayne County Circuit Courts, and is routinely sought out as an arbitrator and mediator in private facilitations. Additionally, he has volunteered at Common Ground, providing pro bono services to individuals and families in need of legal advice and counseling.