Bodman PLC Company Profile

Background

Overview

Bodman PLC is a prominent business law firm headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, with additional offices in Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, and Troy. Established in 1929 by Wallace R. Middleton and Clifford B. Longley, both former Ford Motor Company attorneys, the firm has grown to encompass over 170 lawyers. Bodman is recognized for its deep-rooted relationships with key clients, including the Ford family and Comerica Incorporated, and its significant presence in the automotive and financial services sectors.

Mission and Vision

Bodman is committed to delivering exceptional legal services by understanding clients' businesses and the markets they operate in. The firm emphasizes strategic advice and preventative counsel to address potential issues efficiently and discreetly, aiming to foster long-term client relationships built on trust and integrity.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives and Specializations

Bodman offers a comprehensive range of legal services, with particular expertise in:

Banking and Financial Services: Advising over 80 financial institutions nationwide on regulatory compliance, lending, and transactional matters.

Corporate/Mergers & Acquisitions: Handling sophisticated commercial transactions on national and international scales, including M&A, private equity, and venture capital deals.

Litigation and Alternative Dispute Resolution: Representing clients in complex commercial disputes, including bet-the-company litigation.

Real Estate: Managing national real estate portfolios, including acquisitions, dispositions, and development projects.

High Net Worth Services: Providing estate planning and wealth management services to high net worth individuals.

Bankruptcy and Debtor-Creditor Rights: Assisting clients with insolvency proceedings and restructuring strategies.

The firm also has specialized practice groups in areas such as aviation law, data privacy and security, environmental law, health care, intellectual property, and labor and employment.

Primary Markets

Bodman serves a diverse client base across various industries, including automotive, financial services, real estate, manufacturing, health care, and technology. The firm's longstanding relationships with clients like the Ford family and Comerica Incorporated underscore its deep integration within these sectors.

Financials and Funding

Revenue

Bodman's estimated annual revenue is approximately $139.7 million, with a revenue per employee of $337,500. The firm has experienced a 5% growth in employee count over the past year, indicating a positive trajectory in its financial performance.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

Carrie Leahy: Chair of Bodman PLC, overseeing the firm's strategic direction and operations.

Timothy R. Damschroder: Member of the Business Practice Group, recognized for his expertise in high-profile acquisitions, particularly in the automotive, healthcare, and technology sectors.

Nicholas P. Scavone Jr.: Chair of the Real Estate Practice Group, specializing in real estate finance and complex transactions.

Michelle Czapski: Chair of the Insurance Practice Group and Co-Chair of the Litigation and Alternative Dispute Resolution Practice Group, recognized for her leadership and contributions to the firm.

Recent Appointments

Gregory DeGrazia: Joined Bodman PLC’s Intellectual Property and Patent Practice Groups in May 2025.

Christopher Rambus: Selected as a 2025 Up & Coming Lawyer in April 2025.

Harvey Berman: Recognized as a 2025 Go-To Lawyer for Construction Law in May 2025.

John Gardiner and Rebecca Seguin-Skrabucha: Appointed Co-Chairs of the Workplace Law Practice Group in February 2025.

Leslie Vázquez: Added as Conflicts Attorney in January 2025.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The legal services market is highly competitive, with firms vying for prominence in various practice areas. Bodman PLC distinguishes itself through its deep-rooted client relationships, particularly in the automotive and financial sectors, and its comprehensive range of legal services.

Competitor Analysis

Bodman PLC faces competition from several notable law firms, including:

Varnum LLP: A Michigan-based firm with a strong presence in corporate law and litigation.

Shutts & Bowen LLP: A full-service firm with expertise in real estate and financial services.

Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP: Known for its litigation and insurance law practices.

Foley & Lardner LLP: A national firm with a broad range of practice areas, including intellectual property and health care.

Honigman LLP: A Michigan-based firm with strengths in corporate law and real estate.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Bodman PLC has established long-term relationships with significant clients, including:

Ford Family: Providing continuous legal services since the firm's inception in 1929.

Comerica Incorporated: Serving as legal counsel since assisting in the formation of Manufacturers National Bank in 1933.

These enduring partnerships underscore Bodman's commitment to understanding and serving the unique needs of its clients.

Operational Insights

Bodman's strategic focus on key industries such as automotive and financial services, combined with its comprehensive range of legal services, positions the firm competitively in the market. The firm's emphasis on building long-term client relationships and understanding clients' businesses allows it to provide tailored and effective legal solutions.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Bodman PLC continues to expand its practice areas and deepen its expertise to meet the evolving needs of its clients. The firm's recent appointments and recognitions reflect its commitment to growth and excellence in legal services. By leveraging its historical strengths and adapting to market dynamics, Bodman aims to maintain its position as a leading business law firm in Michigan and beyond.