Category: Firm News & Announcements
Thirteen Kemp Klein Attorneys Named Michigan Super Lawyers
We are proud to announce that thirteen of Kemp Klein’s attorneys were recognized as 2025 Michigan Super Lawyers.
The following attorneys were named 2025 Michigan Super Lawyers:
C. Leslie Banas – Business / Corporate Law
Joseph P. Buttiglieri – Estate & Trust Litigation
Ralph A. Castelli, Jr. – Business / Corporate Law
Mark R. Filipp – Employment Litigation: Defense
Brian R. Jenney – Estate & Probate Law
Alan A. May – Estate & Probate Law
Brian H. Rolfe – Business Litigation
Amy A. Stawski – Family Law
Cynthia L. Umphrey – Business / Corporate Law
Robert S. Zawideh – Estate & Trust Litigation
Brian Jenney was also added to the Top 100: Michigan Super Lawyers: 2025 list.
The following attorneys were named 2025 Michigan Rising Stars:
Casey W. Callahan – Estate & Probate Law
William E. Haines II – Estate & Probate Law
Austin W. Probst – Estate & Probate Law
Each year, no more than five percent of the lawyers in the state are selected by the research team at Super Lawyers to receive this honor.
Super Lawyers recognizes the top attorneys nationwide, across a variety of practice areas and firm sizes, using a patented process of independent research and peer input. The lawyers selected include those with many years of experience, as well as the Rising Stars of the profession.
Super Lawyers is a resource designed to aid those needing an attorney and has grown over three decades with an unparalleled reach in print magazines and online.
For more on Kemp Klein’s recognition click here.
Kemp Klein Attorney Matthew Frank Is Featured as a 2025 Notable M&A Dealmaker by Crain’s Detroit Business
Kemp Klein is pleased to announce that Kemp Klein Senior Attorney Matthew Frank was named as a 2025 Notable M&A Dealmaker by Crain’s Detroit Business. These experienced attorneys and executives lead complex merger and acquisition deals between companies that span the country and the globe. Collectively, they have overseen billions of dollars in transactions, from private equity roll-up mergers to expansions and major exits.
Crain’s Detroit Business Notable M&A Dealmakers know what it takes to close, navigating tight deadlines, business regulations and financial interests — all while contributing to their personal and professional communities through mentorship, board service and volunteerism.
With over two decades of legal experience, Matthew Frank focuses his practice on mergers and acquisitions, real estate transactions, and general corporate counsel. Known for his strategic thinking and practical approach, Matthew represents business owners, investors, and management teams in structuring, negotiating, and closing complex business and real estate deals. In addition to transactional work, Matthew serves as outside general counsel to a variety of privately held companies, providing guidance on corporate governance, shareholder matters, contract negotiation, and strategic planning. His background in bankruptcy and commercial litigation further enhances his ability to assess risk, resolve disputes, and deliver pragmatic solutions to business challenges.
DBusiness Magazine recognized Matthew Frank as a 2025 DBusiness Top Lawyer for his work in Mergers and Acquisitions Law. Michigan Lawyers Weekly selected Mr. Frank as a 2025 ‘Go To Lawyer’ for his work in Business Litigation. Matthew Frank maintains a 10.0 Superb Top Attorney score with Martindale-Avvo. Mr. Frank was recognized for his work in Bankruptcy Law in 2018 by Lawyers of Distinction. Mr. Frank was selected for inclusion in the 2013 issue of Michigan Super Lawyers Rising Stars featuring the top 5% of attorneys in Michigan.
To see Matthew Frank’s feature in Crain’s Detroit Business: https://www.crainsdetroit.com/Reprint-CD25099KempKleinLawFirm
Crain’s Detroit Business Notable M&A Dealmakers list released on August 11, 2025.
Kemp Klein Attorney Matthew W. Frank Named to Michigan Lawyers Weekly's 'Go To Lawyers' Business Litigation List
Kemp Klein is pleased to announce that Kemp Klein Attorney Matthew W. Frank was named to Michigan Lawyers Weekly’s ‘Go To Lawyers’ Business Litigation List. The “Go To Lawyers” program identifies and recognizes the top lawyers for business litigation across Michigan.
To be considered for this award one must be the following:
- A lawyer who is well respected in his or her field, well-versed in the nuances of the case law, statutes and regulations clients will encounter.
- A lawyer who is experienced and enjoys a record of success, with many cases and/or transactions that give testimony to the quality advice he or she can provide.
- A lawyer to whom other lawyers make referrals because of his or her expertise and accomplishments.
- A lawyer who can think creatively and identify all options for a client.
- A lawyer you would name when a friend from another state calls and says she has a client who needs some legal help in a given part of our state.
- A lawyer you might call yourself if you needed legal help in his or her field.
Matthew Frank routinely advises clients through asset and stock sales, corporate restructurings, joint ventures, and commercial real estate acquisitions and dispositions. He is particularly adept at navigating transactions involving closely held businesses, where practical experience and sound judgment are key to closing deals efficiently and protecting client interests. He serves as outside general counsel to a variety of privately held companies, providing guidance on corporate governance, shareholder matters, contract negotiation, and strategic planning. His background in bankruptcy and commercial litigation further enhances his ability to assess risk, resolve disputes, and deliver pragmatic solutions to business challenges.
DBusiness Magazine recognized Mr. Frank as a 2025 DBusiness Top Lawyer for his work in Mergers and Acquisitions Law. Matthew Frank maintains a 10.0 Superb Top Attorney score with Martindale-Avvo. Mr. Frank was recognized for his work in Bankruptcy Law in 2018 by Lawyers of Distinction.
Michigan Lawyers Weekly’s “Michigan’s Go to Lawyers Business Litigation” issue released on July 28, 2025.
Ed Nahhat Involved with Shakespeare Royal Oak's Macbeth
Kemp Klein Attorney Edward Nahhat founded Shakespeare Royal Oak in 2001. Shakespeare Royal Oak was originally founded to enhance the quality of life in the community and to provide an opportunity for emerging professional theater artists a place to call home.
Throughout the years, Shakespeare Royal Oak has entertained thousands, and employed hundreds of local artists, many of whom have gone on to succeed in theater, television and film. Edward Nahhat has maintained a leadership role with this community-based organization for the past 25 years. We are proud of the work our team does in the community.
Something wicked has coming to Royal Oak – with not one witch, but three! This summer Shakespeare Royal Oak has unveiled a devilishly original streampunk-style Macbeth from visionary Detroit director Jeffrey Michael Nahan, with all the spirited spells, plots, and revenge the Bard could conjure up right in the middle of Starr Jaycee Park, July 24 through August 3.
Steampunk Macbeth will fill your eyes and mind with its unique style, music, and moves to keep you guessing till you cheer its glorious end! So, stab your calendar now to plan your night under the stars with the area’s finest professional theater artists as they reveal the plot of Shakespeare’s finest villain in one of the most feared and loved plays of all time.
For tickets and information: https://shakespeareroyaloak.com/
William B. Acker and Norman D. Orr Celebrate 50 Years with Kemp Klein
Congratulations to William B. Acker and Norman D. Orr who celebrated 50 years of their careers with Kemp Klein Law Firm.
- Graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree with high distinction (first in class) in 1972.
- Graduated from the University of Michigan School of Law in 1975.
- Began his career at Kemp Klein on 6/2/1975.
- Is an expert in business and taxation matters, Mr. Acker has authored numerous articles on tax and estate planning strategies for owners of real property; workouts and debt restructuring; tax deferred like-kind exchanges of property; partnership; state property tax and other tax matters for the Journal of Taxation, and the State Bar of Michigan Real Property Section’s professional journal, The Real Property Review.
- Mr. Acker was named Lawyer of the Year for his work in Tax Law by The Best Lawyers in America® in 2019. Mr. Acker has been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America® for his work in Tax Law, Trust & Estates and Real Estate Law since 2012.
- Graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1972 with a Bachelor of Science Degree, cum laude.
- Graduated from the University of Michigan School of Law in 1975, cum laude.
- Began his career at Kemp Klein on 6/1/1975.
- Mr. Orr’s career has centered around commercial and corporate legal work. This includes the purchase and sale of businesses, formation of businesses, financing transactions, shareholder/partner disputes, and negotiating and drafting various types of business agreements.
- Norman Orr maintains an “AV” peer review rating with Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory, and was chosen as a 2025 Top Lawyer by DBusiness for his work in Creditor/Debtor Rights Law.
John B. Kemp gives a speech on William B. Acker, Norman D. Orr and the culture of Kemp Klein Law Firm:
Images from the event:
Kemp Klein is Hosting the Troy Chamber of Commerce Women's Business Forum's June Mixer
The Women’s Business Forum is focused on empowering women in business, the Women’s Business Forum meets to plan programs that are relevant to women in business.
Why Attend?
- Learn from top female leaders about the tools and strategies that helped them stay focused in their careers.
- Engage in meaningful conversations about the critical decisions women in leadership face on a daily basis.
- Network with like-minded professionals and gain inspiration from the stories of success and perseverance.
Event Information:
For more information about the Troy Chamber of Commerce Women’s Business Forum:
Kemp Klein Attorney Austin W. Probst Will Be Presenting at the National Business Institute’s Drafting Essential Estate Planning Documents Seminar
Austin W. Probst will be presenting at National Business Institute‘s Drafting Essential Estate Planning Documents Seminar on Tuesday, June 10, 2025.
Mr. Probst’s portions of the event will focus on Creating Guardianships and Legal Ethics in Estate Planning Practice.
Per the event:
This comprehensive legal instruction offers essential knowledge and resources to draft key documents used to plan for clients’ trusts and estates. Establish heirs and plan distributions, choose and prepare fiduciaries, outline medical decisions, and more. With experienced attorney faculty sharing their top approaches and sample documents, you’ll save time drafting and advise clients on the wisest course of action for every unique situation. Register today!
Who Should Attend:
This estate planning guide is designed for attorneys. It will also benefit accountants and CPAs, trust officers, wealth managers, tax professionals, and paralegals.
Presenters:
- Chris Longwell – Barron Peck Bennie & Schlemmer, L.P.A.
- Michael G. Zapson – Certilman Balan Adler & Hyman LLP
- Austin W. Probst – Kemp Klein Law Firm
- Thomas J. Cleary – Cohen Cleary
- Ralph T. Collins III – Reese, Smalley, Wiseman & Schweitzer, LLP
Event:
For more information about the event and registration:
Kemp Klein Attorneys Amanda Afton Martin and Margaret Lindauer are Featured in OCBA Laches
Amanda Afton Martin and Margaret Lindauer are featured in the June/July edition of Oakland County Bar Association’s Laches. They volunteered for PALS Senior Law Day at the Active Adult Center in Madison Heights, MI. This was the first time that the event was held at the Madison Heights Active Adult Center.
The article can be viewed at this link: https://issuu.com/hour_media/docs/laches_june_july_2025/25
Kemp Klein Attorneys Amanda Afton Martin, Margaret Lindauer and Couzens Lansky Attorney Sara Zivian Zwickl gave the Keynote Address on Estate Planning. They presented their version of “Estate Planning Myth Busters.” Amanda Afton Martin also participated in the Ask a Lawyer portion of the event.
Senior Law Day is designed to help educate senior members of the community on different areas of law and to assist attendees in finding answers to their legal questions. Speakers are experts in areas important to senior citizens. This is intended to be a helpful and informative day which includes Ask a Lawyer Sessions for individual consultations.
Senior citizens and their family members are invited to attend this extremely popular event. Senior Law Day is an invaluable resource that helps to educate senior citizens and/or their adult children on the areas of law that impact seniors. Thanks to the generous support of the Oakland County Bar Foundation, there is no cost to attend and attendees can choose from several informational sessions presented by local attorneys.
The event is hosted by the Oakland County Bar Association’s Providing Access to Legal Services (PALS) Committee. The Pal Committee develops and hosts programs that provide legal assistance and an understanding of the legal system within the community. The activities of this committee help emphasize the positive presence of lawyers in society.
For more information about OCBA Senior Law Day: https://www.ocba.org/?pg=senior-law-day
OCBA PAL's Senior Law Day - Madison Heights, MI April 2025
Kemp Klein Attorney Brian R. Jenney Will be Speaking at the June 3rd Michigan Association of CPA's Eldercare Planning Symposium
Brian R. Jenney will be presenting at the MICPA‘s Eldercare Planning Symposium on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.
Mr. Jenney’s portion of the Symposium will focus on Family Meetings: Management and Mediation.
Per the event:
Eldercare planning is a family affair, requiring ongoing commitment and communication between a client’s family members. Learn how to conduct productive family meetings by understanding individual family dynamics and determine strategies for approaching sensitive topics that can cause or exacerbate
tensions. Use case studies to gain a deeper understanding of common eldercare concerns, including memory issues, elder abuse, post-death administration and more.
Presenters:
Brian R. Jenney, LL.M. in Taxation, J.D., B.S. – Shareholder, Kemp Klein Law Firm, Troy
Karen M. Keeler, LMSW, ACSW – Clinical Social Worker, Northwest Counseling & Psychotherapy Center, Farmington Hills
Stuart Sakwa, MST, CSEP – Principal, Schlaupitz Madhavan, P.C., Troy
Moderator:
Dawn Trotto, CPA – President, On the Horizon, PLLC, Troy
For more information about the event and registration: https://www.micpa.org/cpe/store/course-detail?ProductId=178014&return=1~1
Kemp Klein Attorneys Volunteer for Oakland County Bar Association's April 2025 PALS Senior Law Day
Amanda Afton Martin and Margaret Lindauer volunteered at PALS Senior Law Day on April 4th at the Active Adult Center in Madison Heights, MI.
Kemp Klein Attorneys Amanda Afton Martin, Margaret Lindauer and Couzens Lansky Attorney Sara Zivian Zwickl gave the Keynote Address on Estate Planning. They presented their version of “Estate Planning Myth Busters.” Amanda Afton Martin also participated in the Ask a Lawyer portion of the event.
Senior Law Day is designed to help educate senior members of the community on different areas of law and to assist attendees in finding answers to their legal questions. Speakers are experts in areas important to senior citizens. This is intended to be a helpful and informative day which includes Ask a Lawyer Sessions for individual consultations.
Senior citizens and their family members are invited to attend this extremely popular event. Senior Law Day is an invaluable resource that helps to educate senior citizens and/or their adult children on the areas of law that impact seniors. Thanks to the generous support of the Oakland County Bar Foundation, there is no cost to attend and attendees can choose from several informational sessions presented by local attorneys.
The event is hosted by the Oakland County Bar Association’s Providing Access to Legal Services (PALS) Committee. The Pal Committee develops and hosts programs that provide legal assistance and an understanding of the legal system within the community. The activities of this committee help emphasize the positive presence of lawyers in society.
For more information about OCBA Senior Law Day: https://www.ocba.org/?pg=senior-law-day
OCBA PAL's Senior Law Day - Madison Heights, MI April 2025
