Who We Are
We are skilled civil trial attorneys in Traverse City, Michigan who work together as a team to evaluate cases, prepare for, and conduct civil jury trials. We have worked together in state and federal courts in Michigan, and several other states throughout the country. Our cases have involved motor vehicle accidents, injuries from waterfront activities, fraud, and professional liability errors made by doctors, lawyers, and accountants.
We enjoy learning about our clients’ legal issues. We tailor our services to their needs, designing the appropriate approach and technique for solving client issues through negotiation and litigation. Because of our team approach and experience managing litigation, we are always prepared to go to trial, especially if the parties that have caused damages are unwilling to recognize their errors and provide meaningful compensation for our clients.
Lawrence J. AckerLarry Acker is a 1977 graduate of the Detroit College of Law. In recent years, DCL has moved its operations from the former downtown Detroit location to the campus at Michigan State University.
Larry has been a member in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan for more than 45 years. He has served on a number of State Bar committees and is considered a leader in the profession. He has served as Michigan Chairman of the American College of Trial Lawyers. To earn that distinction he has tried more than 100 trials to conclusion before juries, judges, and arbitrators. Because of his highly developed trial skills, Larry is comfortable in the courtroom trying virtually any type of fact pattern or problem that his clients have encountered. He is particularly capable at locating appropriate expert witnesses, working with other lawyers as Co-counsel, and managing complex lawsuits. The large number of successful settlements and $1,000,000 verdicts he has achieved demonstrate his ability.
Lauren AckerLauren has been working with her father, Lawrence J. Acker, on cases since 2019, focusing on professional malpractice and personal injury. She is involved in every stage of their cases from client interviews to trial. In 2023 Lauren sat second chair at trials for accounting malpractice and medical malpractice.
Lauren is admitted to practice in Michigan and the District of Columbia. She earned her JD from William & Mary Law School in 2019 and her BA from Washington & Lee University in 2012. Lauren lives in Traverse City with her Husband and their pets.