Harvey Kruse President Michael F. Schmidt Selected to the Michigan Lawyers Weekly’s 2023 “Hall of Fame” Class
We are pleased to announce that Harvey Kruse President Michael F. Schmidt has been selected to the Michigan Lawyers Weekly’s 2023 “Hall of Fame” class.
“The Hall of Fame program recognizes Michigan’s legal leaders who are over the age of 60 or who have been in practice for 30 years for their successful careers and valuable contributions to the community. These legendary lawyers have made their mark, either in the courtroom or the boardroom, in their law firms or legal departments, with community organizations, and with local, state and national bar associations.”
Since joining Harvey Kruse almost 50 years ago, Mike continues to prove his dedication to the practice of law and his clients. Mike graduated from the University of Detroit School of Law in 1975 and was the first attorney in his family. When looking for his first legal job, family friend John Kruse suggested he join Harvey Kruse. Mike took him up on his offer, and John went on to become an extremely important person in Mike’s life, a trusted mentor who helped him grow into the successful attorney he is today.
From those early days, Mike has been instrumental in the growth and success of Harvey Kruse. He was made the youngest partner at Harvey Kruse in 1979 and was named to the board of directors just a few years later. Harvey Kruse has grown over the past 50 years to three offices in Troy, Grand Rapids, and Grand Blanc, allowing the firm to provide coverage across the state. He currently serves as the firm’s president.
Over his career practicing insurance coverage and liability law, Mike has represented his clients in the circuit and district courts throughout the state of Michigan, the United States District Court for the Eastern District and the Western District of Michigan, the Michigan Court of Appeals, the Michigan Supreme Court, and the United States Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit. In addition, he has been admitted pro hac vice to handle cases in other states, including Kansas, Ohio, Indiana, and South Carolina.
His long history of success in the courtroom has not only benefitted his clients but also helped shape the law in Michigan.
Mike shares his passion for the practice of law and makes it a priority to share his expertise with fellow attorneys and insurer claims staff by regularly presenting at seminars across the country.
Mike also pays forward John Kruse’s mentorship to the attorneys who now practice with Harvey Kruse. Mike provides leadership and offers guidance to the attorneys in the firm, from first-year associates to his fellow shareholders. His example of professionalism and zealous advocacy has helped those who practice with him.
Peers across the state have recognized Mike for his passion, advocacy, and practice skills through numerous awards and accolades. His name repeatedly appears on the list of Michigan Super Lawyers, the Best Lawyers in America, Leading Lawyers, and dBusiness Top Lawyers. He has also received an A/V Preeminent rating from Martindale Hubbell.
Although Mike’s plate is full with an active caseload, he still finds time to support causes that are important to him and his family. Mike has served for years on the University of Detroit High School Board of Advisors, the Dean’s Advisory Board of the University of Detroit Mercy Law School, the Marian High School Board of Directors and numerous committees, the St. Hugo Parish Council, where he also served as President, and the St. Hugo of the Hills School Parent-Teacher Group where he served as President with his wife Suzanne. He has also served as President of the Pine Ridge Drive Homeowners Association.
Mike Schmidt’s commitment to the practice and development of the law and his dedication to our community make him a true “Hall of Famer.” Please join us in congratulating him on this honor.