Dykema Announces Executive Board Appointments

Dykema, a leading national law firm, announced today that the firm has selected six members to serve on its Executive Board for a three-year term commencing on January 1, 2024. As distinguished lawyers and experienced leaders, these board members will make important contributions to the strategic direction of the firm.

The appointed attorneys are listed below with brief bios and descriptions of their practices.

Harry N. Arger – Chicago

Arger is a seasoned trial attorney who has been practicing law for more than 35 years, representing business clients ranging from mortgage companies, financial institutions, insurance carriers, municipalities, product manufacturers, service entities, railroads, public officials, and other professional individuals and entities. In addition to his trial work, Arger is an experienced arbitrator and mediator and practices regularly before the American Arbitration Association and other alternative dispute resolution services.

Arger’s previous administration experience within the firm includes being the Practice Group Leader of Dykema’s Business Litigation Group and, most recently, serving as the Managing Member of the firm’s Chicago office. He earned his J.D. from Washington University in St. Louis and A.B. from the University of Illinois.

Alison R. Ashmore – Dallas (re-elected)

An accomplished business litigator, Ashmore is known for her ability to craft compelling arguments and effective strategies. She is regularly called upon by clients in a wide range of disputes, handling each one with a tailored, holistic approach that addresses specific objectives and business needs. Ashmore represents businesses from a variety of industries, including food and beverage manufacturing and distribution, real estate, construction, and energy. Recognized for her presence in the courtroom, she represents clients in both state and federal court, bankruptcy court, arbitrations, and before administrative bodies. Ashmore handles breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, fraud, employment discrimination, whistleblower, unfair competition, misappropriation of trade secrets, and other business claims.

Ashmore earned a J.D., cum laude, from Baylor Law School and a B.A., magna cum laude, from Hardin-Simmons University.

Jeffrey C. Gifford – San Antonio

Gifford is a corporate, mergers and acquisitions, and securities attorney who counsels and assists clients on negotiating and closing complex public and private transactions. He works closely with accountants, investment bankers, and other professionals to address and resolve the complicated issues that characteristically arise in multifaceted transactions. He is also one of the lead contributors to Dykema’s annual M&A Outlook Survey. Gifford also served as Leader of Dykema’s Corporate and Finance Practice Group.

Gifford earned a J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School and a B.A. from Brigham Young University.

Kyle R. Hauberg – Bloomfield Hills

Hauberg is a real estate lawyer who negotiates and closes development transactions, property acquisitions and sales, leases, and financing projects, along with partnerships and joint ventures related to real estate. His real estate industry clients include REITs, institutional owners, commercial developers, and national retailers. Hauberg also regularly advises private equity companies on real estate and environmental issues. Hauberg represents reflect a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, industrial, healthcare, banking, retail, sports and entertainment, professional services, and residential home builders. He is the former Director of Dykema’s Real Estate and Environmental Department, serving in the role from 2012 – 2022.

Hauberg earned a J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School and a B.A from the University of Nebraska.

Dommond E. Lonnie – Los Angeles (re-elected)

Particularly known for his work in automotive product liability cases and his defense of original equipment manufacturers, Lonnie has represented numerous domestic and foreign businesses and has substantial product liability experience in matters involving crashworthiness, airbags and restraints, fires, suspensions, tires, rollovers, brakes, and fuel systems. He implements litigation and investigation plans and manages all aspects of litigation and pre-suit claims to successful resolution. Lonnie also formerly served as Director of Dykema’s Automotive Industry Group.

Lonnie earned a J.D. and B.A. from the University of California, Los Angeles.

Thomas M. Schehr – Detroit

Schehr is an experienced commercial litigator who regularly handles business, financial services, and healthcare disputes. In addition to his work in the trial courts, Schehr has won appeals for clients in important cases before the Michigan Supreme Court and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit. He also regularly serves as an arbitrator, mediator, and special master. He previously served as Director of Dykema’s Financial Industry Group, a team of more than 100 lawyers covering various practices and specialties.

Schehr earned a J.D., cum laude, from Wayne State University and a B.A. from Michigan State University.