Barris, Sott, Denn & Driker, P.L.L.C. – Detroit, MI

A Legacy of Legal Excellence in Detroit

Barris, Sott, Denn & Driker, P.L.L.C. is one of Detroit’s most storied and respected law firms, known throughout the legal community as ”lawyers’ lawyers.” Founded in 1968, the firm has built an impeccable reputation for handling complex, high-stakes litigation and sophisticated business transactions. The firm’s attorneys are frequently called upon to represent other law firms and judges, a testament to their ethical standards and legal acumen. Among its founding members was the late Eugene Driker, a legal giant who played a pivotal role in mediating the ”Grand Bargain” during Detroit’s bankruptcy, helping to save the Detroit Institute of Arts and secure pensions for city retirees. For over five decades, the firm has been a pillar of the Detroit Bar, dedicated to civic leadership and pro bono service while delivering top-tier representation to major corporations, developers, and public entities.

Specialized Commercial Practice

The firm concentrates on areas that demand a high level of intellectual rigor and strategic thinking. Their Commercial Litigation practice is nationally ranked, handling everything from antitrust disputes and shareholder oppression cases to contract breaches and class action defense. In Real Estate Law, they have been involved in many of the transformative development projects that have reshaped Detroit’s skyline, providing counsel on zoning, financing, and construction. The firm also possesses deep expertise in Professional Responsibility, advising other attorneys on ethical compliance and defending against malpractice claims. Additionally, their Appellate Practice is renowned for its scholarly approach and success in state and federal appeals courts.

• Business Litigation: Complex commercial disputes, antitrust, and securities litigation.
• Real Estate: Development, leasing, and land use for major commercial projects.
• Professional Ethics: Defending lawyers and judges in disciplinary and malpractice matters.
• Estate Planning: Sophisticated trust administration and probate litigation for high-net-worth individuals.

Headquarters at Fort Washington Plaza

For many years, the firm’s headquarters has been located in the Fort Washington Plaza at 333 West Fort Street. This 15-story mid-century modern office tower is situated in the heart of the Financial District, occupying a full city block between Washington Boulevard and Cass Avenue. The firm’s offices in Suite 1200 offer a professional and understated environment fitting for their high-profile clientele. The building is directly across from the former Federal Reserve Bank and is within walking distance of the Theodore Levin U.S. Courthouse, where the firm’s attorneys frequently appear. Clients visiting the office benefit from the building’s attached parking garage and its central location near the Lodge Freeway (M-10), making it easily accessible from all parts of the metro area.

Note: As of April 2025, the firm has announced a strategic combination with Kerr, Russell and Weber PLC, another historic Detroit firm, further expanding their resources and capabilities while maintaining their commitment to the city.