Mr. Balberman graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in Economics in 1978 and was admitted to the State Bar of Michigan in 1983 after attending the University of Detroit School of Law. He is licensed to practice law in the State of Michigan, in both state and federal courts

I have been in private practice as an attorney for 22 years. I can assist with all legal needs from criminal, family, bankruptcy, social security and more. With nearly three decades of practicing law in Michigan, our team of expert attorneys has distinguished itself as a top firm in the state. We are guided by three fundamental principles: a commitment to personalized legal advocacy, a dedication to truth, and an unyielding pursuit of our clients’ desired outcomes. At the Whitaker-Payton Justice Center, we believe that your future matters, and we are here to ensure that you get the justice you deserve.

Bobby Ficklin is a practicing lawyer in the state of Michigan.

Dustin is an experienced IP practitioner with a vast array of technical experience. Dustin Zak is a registered patent attorney who focuses his practice on patent litigation and prosecution. Dustin possesses a vast range of technical experience ranging from chemical and material arts to software applications and artificial intelligence. Dustin has technical knowledge related to cyber security and computer technologies. During his studies, he has immersed himself in many technical topics including C++, Java, and visual basic programming, networking, open source networking, end-user computing, ethical hacking and offensive security, cyber intelligence, Linux security administration, information security, risk-vulnerability analysis, and digital forensics. Prior to joining Brooks Kushman, Dustin spent more than 5 years gaining technical experience as a Research and Development Chemist at an automotive OEM supplier and in the automotive after-market refinish industry. In these roles he formulated, developed, and launched various products globally. He also participated in the creation and development of technology for measuring visual emissions for compliance with EPA method 9, and validated and generated performance criteria for raw materials including solvents, polymers, resins, pigments, additives, and final products. Dustin holds a Juris Doctor from Wayne State University graduating at the top of his class where he received the Governor’s Scholarship. He was also the Senior Articles Editor for the Wayne Law Review and a Mock Trial member. Dustin also participated in the patent procurement clinic preparing patent applications for Detroit entrepreneurs and inventors. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Polymers and Coatings Technology from Eastern Michigan University, where he received the Recognition of Excellence Scholarship, the College of technology Coating Scholarship, and the Charles Parker Scholarship.

Ashley A. Smith joined Vandervoort, Christ & Fisher, P.C. as an associate attorney, in April 2023. Ashley was born and raised in Battle Creek, Michigan and attended the Battle Creek public schools. Ashley received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, with a minor in Peace and Social Justice, from Valparaiso University in 2009, and a Juris Doctorate from Valparaiso University Law school in 2016. While in law school Ashley was a member of the Sports Law Clinic, aiding in resolving amateur athletes’ grievances with the United States Olympic Committee and with the United States Anti-Doping Agency. Ashley is an adjunct professor at Kellogg Community College, where she teaches Business Law online. Ashley is client-focused, and her previous legal experience and time as a solo practitioner prior to joining Vandervoort, Christ & Fisher has given her the insight, knowledge, and skills to aid clients in a variety of legal issues and matters.

Ronald French is a practicing lawyer in the state of Michigan.