Education
Michigan State University College of Law, J.D., summa cum laude, 2008
University of Michigan, Stephen M. Ross School of Business, B.B.A., with high distinction, 2005
Bar Admissions
- Michigan
Court Admissions
U.S. Court of Appeals
- Sixth Circuit
U.S. District Court
- Eastern District of Michigan
- Western District of Michigan
As an experienced benefits and executive compensation attorney, Brian Gallagher helps employers navigate the complicated and ever-changing legal landscape of ERISA and the Tax Code. Brian works closely with employers of all sizes in many different industries to design and maintain their benefit plans, ensure compliance and develop practical solutions when mistakes inevitably do occur.
Brian is currently serving as the Treasurer of the Taxation Section of the State Bar of Michigan and previously chaired its Employee Benefits Committee. Named a 'Rising Star' for Employee Benefits by Michigan Super Lawyers, Brian is also very engaged in the local Lansing community, serving on the boards of numerous local nonprofits.
Honors
Michigan Super Lawyers, Rising Star for Employee Benefits, 2014, 2017-2021
Top 5 Under 35, Ingham County Bar Association, 2013
10 Over the Next Ten, Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Grand River Connection, 2013
Associate Editor, Michigan State Law Review, 2007-2008
Dean Charles H. King Scholars Program, Michigan State University College of Law, 2005-2008
Jurisprudence Awards: Contracts I & Deferred and Executive Compensation
Professional Activities
State Bar of Michigan, Taxation Section Council, 2017-present; Secretary, 2020-2021; Treasurer, 2021-present; Chair, Employee Benefits Committee, 2015-2017
American Bar Association, Co-Chair, Subcommittee for Tax-Exempt and Governmental Plans, Employee Benefits Committee, Tax Section, 2018-present
Ingham County Bar Association
Civic, Cultural & Social Activities
Underground of Good, Co-Chair, 2017-2021
Highfields, Inc., Board of Directors, 2009-2015, 2020-Present; Board Chair, 2013-2014
Grand River Connection, Board of Directors, 2011-2016; President, 2013-2016
Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors, 2014-2016