David DeGraw has actively practiced litigation and trial law exclusively and continuously since 1986. He defends and advises employers, insurance companies, and third party administrators in all areas of workers’ compensation law and claims handling. In addition, he maintains an active litigation practice in the areas of insurance defense and premises liability. He is a frequent lecturer on litigation and claims handling issues.

David is a member of the Board of Directors at Smith Haughey, chairperson of the firm's Workers’ Compensation Department, and a member of the firm’s Diversity Committee. He presently is chaiperson of the Workers' Compensation Section of the State Bar of Michigan.

He and his wife, Jody, have three active daughters, Allyson, Lauren and Anne, who help them maintain a healthy perspective on life.

Noteworthy

• Special Assistant Attorney General, 1991- present.
• Listed as a "Michigan Super Lawyer" (2007) -- Workers' Compensation, Personal Injury Defense

Education

•  Michigan State University (B.S., 1982)
•  Thomas M. Cooley Law School (J.D., 1985)

Admitted to Practice

•  State Bar of Michigan, 1986
•  U.S. District Court, Western District of Michigan, 1989
•  U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Michigan, 2005

Previous Professional Experience

•  Staff Counsel – The Accident Fund of Michigan
•  Partner – Cholette, Perkins & Buchanan

News for David J. DeGraw

1/6/2011
Smith Haughey Announces New Shareholders and Board of Directors

6/22/2010
DeGraw elected Chairperson of the Workers’ Compensation section of the State Bar of Michigan

1/14/2010
Smith Haughey Announces New CEO, Shareholders, and Board of Directors

6/26/2009
DeGraw Elected Vice Chairperson of the Workers' Compensation Section of the State Bar of Michigan

12/17/2008
Board of Directors Elected to Lead Smith Haughey in the New Year

9/24/2007
Smith Haughey Lawyers Named "Super Lawyers"

Professional Affiliations

•  American Bar Association
•  Grand Rapids Bar Association
•  State Bar of Michigan (Workers’ Compensation Section - Chairperson, 2010-2011; Council Member, 2004-present; Member, 1986-present)
•  Michigan Self-Insurers Association: 1990- present
•  Director's Advisory Council of the Workers' Compensation Agency

Community Affiliations

•  President, GRACEAC, 2003-present.
•  Member, Board of Education, Blessed Sacrament,1999-2002.