Michael Risman

Experience

1. Partner

   Hodgson Russ LLP

   Apr 2006 — Present · Buffalo/Niagara, NY, US

   I have more than 30 years of experience representing municipalities in a broad array of litigation and subject matters. For the past eight years, I have been a partner in Hodgson Russ’s Business Litigation Practice, focusing on municipal litigation. Previously, I served as corporation counsel for the City of Buffalo from 1997 to 2006. This extensive experience provided me with broad knowledge of the legal issues facing municipalities. My experience in government enables me to assist public officials and attorneys with strategies for dealing with complex issues that arise, while my strong problem-solving advice and firm understanding of municipal procedures and issues enable me to successfully assist public officials and entities in cost-efficient and practical ways. My experience encompasses a wide array of municipal issues.Prior to joining Hodgson Russ, I served as corporation counsel for the City of Buffalo. As head of the department of law, I served as chief counsel for the City of Buffalo, the mayor, Buffalo Common Council, the Buffalo Board of Education, and other municipal entities and public officials. I directed the city\'s litigation in all areas, and was involved in many complex economic, real estate development, and other projects for the city. I am also an adjunct lecturer on municipal law at University at Buffalo School of Law.

Education

• University at Buffalo

  Juris Doctor

  1976 — 1979