Benjamin VanderWerp

Benjamin VanderWerp is a litigation attorney who represents companies in complex commercial disputes in state and federal courts nationwide. His practice spans all phases of litigation, including pleadings, motion practice, discovery, and depositions, as well as supporting hearings and trial proceedings. Benjamin brings a disciplined, strategy-first approach to litigation by identifying leverage points early, streamlining execution, and positioning clients for decisive, favorable outcomes.

Clients rely on Benjamin for his ability to think beyond the immediate task and evaluate litigation decisions through both trial and appellate lenses. He considers how each step impacts leverage, case posture, and potential appellate issues, helping clients identify strategic opportunities that may not be apparent from the case schedule alone. This forward-looking approach allows him to provide practical, business-minded guidance that supports informed decision-making at every stage.

Benjamin’s experience also includes handling sophisticated commercial matters, managing discovery and related disputes, and drafting dispositive and pre-trial motions. He brings significant appellate experience, including drafting and filing appeals, arguing before the Michigan Court of Appeals, and contributing to amicus briefs before the U.S. Supreme Court. His combined trial and appellate background enable him to support clients from initial filing through potential appeal, providing continuity and thoughtful judgment throughout the lifecycle of a case.

Practice Areas

Prior Experience

• United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, Cincinnati, Ohio, Judicial Extern to the Honorable Helene N. White, 2018

Education

Admissions

Court Admissions

News

Publications

Benjamin J. VanderWerp, Survey of Michigan Case Law: Power of the Executive (2022)

Benjamin J. VanderWerp, Awful Grammar: Toward a Resolution of 924(c)’s Unit of Prosecution, 65 Wayne L. Rev. 461 (2020)