Grand Rapids, Mich., June 25, 2009 - David J. DeGraw, a shareholder in the Grand Rapids office of Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge has been elected vice chairperson of the Workers' Compensation section of the State Bar of Michigan. Upon completion of his one year term as vice chairperson, he will assume the position of chairperson.

David practices in the area of workers' compensation where he defends and advises employers, insurance companies, and third party administrators. In addition, he maintains an active litigation practice in the areas of insurance defense and premises liability. Within Smith Haughey, he is a member of the firm's Board of Directors, co-chair of the Workers' Compensation Practice Group, and a member of the firm's Diversity Committee.