Karl litigates on behalf of clients in a wide variety of settings, including torts, employment, contract disputes and commercial litigation. He represents an array of clients, including individuals, small businesses, professionals, hospitals and large corporations. A trial lawyer since 1994, he is an active member in the firm's Litigation practice group, a member of the Executive Committee for the Grand Rapids Bar Association's Litigation Section, and a member of the ABA's Section on Litigation.

Much of Karl's civil practice focuses upon the representation of governmental agencies and their employees. He has successfully represented municipalities, townships, sheriff's departments, county road commissions, police officers, mayors, sheriffs, prosecuting attorneys, and housing commissions. He has successfully defended clients in cases involving state tort claims, 42 U.S.C. Section 1983, Title VII, the Whistle Blower Protection Act, the Elliott Larsen Civil Rights Act, 42 U.S.C. Section 1985, and the Michigan Constitution.

Noteworthy

• AV Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
• Former trustee of Grand Rapids Bar Association
• Former representative to State Bar Representative Assembly

Education

• University of Michigan (B.A., 1989)
• Indiana University (J.D., 1994)

Admitted to Practice

• State Bar of Michigan, 1994
• United States District Court, Western District of Michigan, 1994

Client Successes for Karl W. Butterer, Jr.

• 5/1/2006
  Karl Butterer received a no-cause jury verdict in federal court for his client township and its police chief against multiple claims of retaliation brought by a township police officer.

External Publications

• "Michigan Supreme Court Straightens Up 'Disarray' of Governmental Immunity Law for Lower Level Governmental Officials and Employees," The Pool Cue, Michigan County Road Commission Self-Insurance Pool, February 2009.

Smith Haughey Publications

News for Karl W. Butterer, Jr.

2/26/2009
Butterer Awarded "Best Supporting Attorney" at Oscar Night Party

2/6/2009
Karl Butterer: Thought Leader in Entertainment Law

7/14/2008
SHRR Entertainment Lawyer to Speak at the Northern Michigan Film Forum July 22 in Suttons Bay

12/20/2007
Board of Directors Elected to Lead Smith Haughey in the New Year

1/8/2007
Board of Directors Elected to Lead Smith Haughey in the New Year

Professional Affiliations

•  American Bar Association (Member, Section on: Litigation; State and Local Government)
•  State Bar of Michigan (Member, Sections on: Litigation; Arts, Communications, Entertainment & Sports)
•  Grand Rapids Bar Association
•  Michigan Defense Trial Counsel
•  City of Grand Rapids, Income Tax Board of Review