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Personalized Approach

We know that every client’s IP needs are unique. That’s why we take a personalized approach to each IP matter, working closely with clients to understand their goals and develop strategies that align with their business objectives. Our experience and small size make us nimble enough to follow through with creative and personalized approaches that are more difficult to achieve with larger red tape-laden organizations.

Personalized Approach

We know that every client’s copyright needs are unique. That’s why our lawyers take a personalized approach to your business and your industry when considering your brand strategy.

Personalized Approach

We know that every client’s business needs are unique. That’s why our lawyers take a personalized approach to your business and your industry when considering your business strategy, whether in contract negotiation or in a merger or acquisition. Our experience and small size give us the freedom to offer candid and creative advice others might hesitate to deliver.

Local Counsel for Federal Court 

Navigating the complexities of federal court in Michigan can be challenging, especially for out-of-state attorneys unfamiliar with the specific judges, the local rules, and the various standing orders. At Troy-based Panagos Kennedy PLLC, we provide local counsel services to support attorneys and their clients. â€‹If you or your client plans to sue or has been sued in the Eastern District of Michigan or the Western District of Michigan, we can help.

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Why Out-of-State Attorneys Need Local Counsel

There is no Pro Hac Vice admission in federal court in Michigan. Litigation counsel who are not admitted to practice in Michigan must engage local counsel who is licensed in the state and federal district court. Experienced local counsel not only fulfills this requirement but also provides practical knowledge that can greatly influence the success of the case. Here are some key reasons why local counsel is essential for federal court cases in Michigan:

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  • Compliance with Local Rules: Federal courts have intricate rules governing filing deadlines, motions, and courtroom protocol. Indeed, some judges also have rules specific to proceedings in their court rooms. Our firm’s attorneys are well-versed in these local rules, minimizing the risk of procedural missteps that could delay or negatively impact a case.
     

  • Courtroom Familiarity: Our attorneys are familiar with the preferences and expectations of federal judges in Michigan, as well as the tendencies of opposing local counsel. This knowledge of local practice helps us provide strategic guidance that may be influential to achieving a favorable outcome.
     

  • Efficient Case Management: The federal courts in Michigan require strict adherence to the local Case Management/Electronic Court Filing (CM/ECF) procedures. Our team has a strong presence in federal courts in Michigan and are well versed in navigating the CM/ ECF system and procedures to ensure documents conform to all local practices and are timely filed. 
     

  • On-the-Ground Support: Cases often require local counsel to be present for hearings, depositions, and other proceedings. In addition, emergency filings require on the ground support to ensure all filings are timely. As your local counsel, Panagos Kennedy PLLC can provide reliable, in-person representation whenever requested or necessary.

Services We Provide As Local Counsel

​Panagos Kennedy PLLC offers cost effective local counsel services in both the Eastern and Western District Court of Michigan. These Courts sit in numerous cities, where we have familiarity including Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Flint, Bay City, Kalamazoo and Marquette. 

  • Ensuring Compliance With Local Rules & Standing Orders

One of our primary services as local counsel is to ensure compliance with federal court procedures in Michigan. We thoroughly review case materials, documents, and filings to confirm that they align with local court requirements, minimizing the risk of procedural issues or delays.

  • Filing Pleadings & Serving Judge’s Copies 

We can manage all aspects of document filing, ensuring that filings meet Michigan’s federal court standards and are submitted on time. Our team is experienced in electronic filing systems (ECF) used by federal courts in Michigan and is familiar with local document requirements, such as whether the judge requires a separate Judges copy to be Fed Ex or hand delivered, making the process seamless for you and cost effective for the client.

  • Strategic Consulting & Support

Panagos Kennedy PLLC offers strategic insights to help develop a compelling case tailored to each federal court’s preferences. We provide co-counsel with knowledge of local judges’ tendencies, including local magistrate judges’ tendencies, opposing counsel’s strategies, and procedural nuances that could impact the case’s outcome.

  • Appearing in Court 

​As your local counsel, we provide reliable in-court representation for all federal court proceedings, including hearings, and conferences. We ensure that every court appearance aligns with your case strategy, presenting a cost effective, cohesive and professional presence on behalf of your client.

  • Providing Conference Space for Prep Work & Debriefing

We have a large and modern conference room, wi-fi, and extra offices to accommodate you and your team when you are in town.

Types of Federal Cases We Support as Local Counsel

Panagos Kennedy PLLC has experience in a wide range of federal litigation areas, making us a valuable and cost-effective local counsel resource for attorneys from multiple practice areas. Our federal case support includes:

  • Intellectual Property Litigation

Federal courts handle many intellectual property cases that involve complex technical and legal issues. As local counsel, we assist with everything from patent and trademark infringement cases to trade secret disputes, providing valuable insights that align with Michigan’s federal court practices.

  • Business Litigation

Federal courts handle many business litigation cases that involve complex legal issues relating to breach of contracts and business torts. As local counsel, we provide valuable insights to the judges’ preferences in handing related discovery and procedural matters in federal court.

Why Choose Panagos Kennedy PLLC as Local Counsel?

At Panagos Kennedy PLLC, we provide cost effective and client-focused local counsel services that meet the highest standards of federal court representation. Here’s why attorneys across the US choose us as their local counsel:

  • In-Depth Knowledge of Federal Courts in Michigan

Attorney Bill Panagos sits on the State Bar of Michigan Committee United States Courts Committee with other federal litigators who deep dive into the local rules and common practices of the federal judiciary. He and Ms. Kennedy are well-known members of the local federal bar association to both the judges and other attorneys. Both have been recognized as Best Lawyers and separately as Leading Lawyers by Michigan Lawyers Weekly.

  • Commitment to Collaboration

With every local counsel engagement, we work closely with out-of-state attorneys to achieve the best possible outcomes for their clients in a cost-effective manner. Our commitment to professionalism ensures that all interactions, from courtroom appearances to case management, reflect positively on both our firm and our co-counsel.

  • Customized Service

We understand that every case is unique, and we tailor our services to meet the specific needs of each attorney and client. Whether you require assistance with a single filing or comprehensive support throughout the duration of the case, our team is here to provide the flexibility and experience you need.

Contact Panagos Kennedy PLLC

​3331 West Big Beaver Rd. Suite 102
Troy, Michigan 48084
248.564.1335
info@paniplaw.com

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Visit our website to learn more about our IP, business & technology law services or schedule a consultation. 

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