Daniel V. Barnett

Daniel is a strategic litigator who regularly advises business and tribal clients in matters regarding litigation, negotiation, and general operations. His work has resulted in the enforcement of employment covenant (non-compete) clauses for employers, releasing employees from employment covenants with former employers, and the resolution of breach of contract actions. He also has experience in complex business litigation, including shareholder actions, breach of commercial and development contracts, and indemnity agreements. Mr. Barnett appears—and has accumulated a record of success—in courts all over Michigan, including the United States District Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts. He has also appeared and prevailed in the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals.

Daniel is a Shareholder practicing in Butzel’s Grand Rapids office. He is a recipient of the 2023 Grand Rapids Bar Association 3-in-10 Award and has been named as a 2023 American Institute of Trial Lawyers Litigator of the Year in Civil Litigation. Prior to his legal career, Daniel served as the band director for Newaygo Public Schools from 2006 through 2013. Under his leadership, the Newaygo Marching Band won the Flight IV Michigan Competing Band Association State Championship in 2010 and 2012. Daniel was awarded Teacher of the Year for Newaygo County in 2011. After seven years as a teacher, Daniel left the profession to pursue a career in law.

In his spare time, Daniel enjoys spending time with his wife, Emily, two sons, Kalvin and Isaac, daughter, Elisabeth, and dog, Swarley. He also enjoys playing basketball, attending sporting events, boating, traveling, and spending time outdoors.

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Education

Michigan State University College of Law, J.D., magna cum laude

Central Michigan University, B.A.

Admissions

Awards & Recognitions

Grand Rapids Bar Association - 3-in-10 Award, 2023

American Institute of Trial Lawyers - Litigator of the Year (Civil Litigation), 2023