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Photo courtesy of Ben Hammond
By Sheila Pursglove
Legal News
Ben Hammond first got interested in the law during his high school and college years, when his job at a country club in Oakland County brought him into contact with many lawyers.
"One in particular was in court frequently and that really appealed to me," he says. "I also had a cousin who was a lawyer-he encouraged me to consider law school and I felt it connected to my strengths as a writer and communicator."
Hammond earned his undergrad degree, magna cum laude, in communications from Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, where he was student body president, and a member of the golf team. He was drawn to communications because of the personal application to every future career path.
"Ultimately, I was able to take what I learned about argumentation, debate, and rhetoric and translate it to my law practice," he says.
He earned his juris doctor, cum laude, from Michigan State University College of Law, where he was involved in Moot Court, the Journal of International Law, and clerked at the Oakland County Circuit Court.
"Going to MSU Law was a great experience-not only did it push me academically, but I developed strong friendships I still have today," he says. "I was heavily involved with the Mock Trial team and had the opportunity to travel to competitions-this sparked my interest in litigation."
Launching his career with a Grand Rapids law firm, Hammond found the litigation work invigorating and challenging.
"I enjoyed going to court on a regular basis and engaging in the 'battle' that comes with the territory," he says. "When I had the opportunity to jump into construction litigation cases, I found the complexity interesting and I appreciated developing long-term relationships with my clients, leading to other types of work. My dad was a heavy machine operator for a while and so I think you could say construction runs in my blood."
In July 2009, Hammond joined forces with Steve Hilger and the Grand Rapids law firm of Hilger Hammond was born.
Named Best Lawyers "Lawyer of the Year 2022 Construction Law" for Grand Rapids, Hammond specializes in construction law, commercial litigation, real estate transactions, and business law.
He recalls a case a few years ago, when a West Michigan general contractor went bankrupt suddenly leaving dozens of projects on hold and many more subcontractors in the lurch for payment.
"We ended up representing a large number of trade contractors in lien foreclosure lawsuits, lawsuits against financial institutions and bankruptcy court proceedings seeking complex resolutions. While some clients fared better than others, none had to close their doors and that was particularly satisfying," he says.
Hammond, who has extensive experience working with homeowners' associations, property owners' associations, condominium developers and golf courses providing general counsel and, most recently, interpretations of executive orders pertaining to COVID-19, also enjoys the challenges of real estate work.
"Just like litigation, every real estate deal has a new problem to unravel, which I enjoy," he says. "I also like the fast-paced, deadline-driven nature of the real estate practice. You sprint to the end, close the deal, and it's typically done.
"As a former owner of a real estate holding company, I can relate to the motivation and thought processes that go into purchasing and selling decisions, which gives me helpful insight when working with my real estate clients."
Hammond also helps clients create, buy, and sell small businesses; and assists in the transition of businesses from one generation to another or to key employees. He is involved in negotiating contracts for business clients and litigating disputes, and counsels individuals and businesses with planning, formation, financing, licensing, and corporate reorganizations.
"As someone who started a small business, I find it exciting to travel with others on their journey," he says. "In addition, there are some specific small business challenges, such as growth and succession planning, that have been very interesting to navigate," he says.
"At the end of the day, small businesses are the backbone of our economy-the owners put everything they have into their companies and it's extremely rewarding to have a small piece to play in their success by helping them navigate through legal issues."
An approved mediator by the Kent County and Ottawa County circuit courts, mediation has grown to be a bigger part of his practice.
"Mediation is the way most cases resolve and is the most efficient method among the options. When the case and parties are properly prepared, businesses and individuals can take control of their dispute and move forward," he says. "I became a mediator because I believe in this philosophy and have seen it work. It's very rewarding to navigate a mediation and bring legal opponents to an agreement. I'm excited about continuing to grow my mediation practice and providing another path to resolution for clients who need an alternative to a lengthy and often costly court battle."
In pro bono cases, Hammond notes that working with an individual that doesn't have the resources to get the legal services they need is fulfilling.
"There are often systemic and economic barriers in place that, as attorneys, we can help to remove by offering our services for free from time to time," he says. "To see these individuals flourish will ultimately help make our community better."
He recently wrapped up his yearlong role as president of the Grand Rapids Bar Association, a position that allowed him to collaborate with his peers to improve the legal community in Grand Rapids in tangible ways.
"During my tenure on the Executive Committee, we revived programming post-COVID, hired a new executive director, forged an updated strategic plan, and set a strong path for the future," he says.
Hammond has given back to the community by previously serving as an elder at his church and coaching Little League baseball, and serves on several nonprofit boards.
He specializes in counseling nonprofits and charitable organizations, including local churches, assisting in obtaining and maintaining their tax-exempt status, complying with state registration and charitable solicitation laws, and drafting articles of incorporation and bylaws.
"Nonprofits serve an important role in our community, and helping them solve problems and fulfill their missions is rewarding," he says. "I see my work on nonprofit boards as an extension of my legal career, because I can offer a unique skill set and perspective. One example is my work with the Western Michigan ABC, where I helped form the West Michigan Construction Institute-it's very satisfying to see the school up and running."
Originally from Walled Lake in Oakland County, Hammond now makes his home in Grand Rapids with his wife Rachel and three children: Madi, a freshman at the University of Michigan; Parker in 10th grade; and Fiona in 8th grade.
"Grand Rapids has been a wonderful place for me both professionally and personally," he says. "The business and legal community is competitive without being cutthroat, and has been a great place to grow my legal practice. I also enjoy that Grand Rapids is in close proximity to beaches, boating, and fishing."
The latter has become a relaxing hobby in recent years.
"It's a year-round activity that gives me the opportunity to put away my phone and simply focus on which lures are working and what fish are biting," he says. "It's also been a great way to connect with clients, including last year's First Annual Western Michigan Angler Classic with the WMCI and some memorable fishing trips."
