James R. Bruinsma

James Bruinsma focuses on commercial and real estate litigation, as well as business and corporate representation that includes contract negotiation, land use and real estate development, employment matters, covenants not to compete, governance, and financial transactions.

For a large portion of his legal career, Jim has represented the captive finance arms of automotive manufacturers in complex consumer class action and commercial finance disputes, including related appeals in state and federal courts. His work has included defending against novel class action discrimination claims, modelled on disparate impact claims in the employment context.

In the real estate arena, Jim represents developers regarding a variety of land use issues, including  state and local regulatory approvals, easements and access rights, construction contracts, public access, and environmental and Department of Environmental Quality permitting.

Although he advises various companies, a growing portion of his docket includes residential development projects on Michigan’s western lakeshore. He also shares his knowledge of real estate litigation as a contributing author on adverse possession in Michigan Real Estate Litigation, an authoritative practice guide for attorneys in the state.

On the transactional side, Jim serves as de facto general counsel for clients, managing a variety of business and legal needs including facilitating supplier and vendor contracts, production agreements, real estate acquisition and disposition, financing, and related matters.

Jim appreciates the unique challenges that each new matter poses, whether it’s in the courtroom, the boardroom, or at the negotiation table. Clients appreciate his keen judgment, and because he is a quick study, they value his ability to make insightful, often on-the-fly decisions. Highly regarded by his colleagues in the legal profession.

Education:

• Harvard Law School, Juris Doctor, cum laude, 1991
• University of Michigan, Bachelor of Arts, with highestdistinction, 1987

Bar Admission:

• Michigan
• Illinois
• U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan
• U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals
• U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois

Professional Associations and Memberships:

• State Bar of Michigan
• Grand Rapids Bar Association
• American Bar Association