Mark S. Allard

Mark S. Allard: Leading ERISA Litigation Attorney in Michigan

Mark S. Allard is a highly respected and experienced attorney dedicated to representing individuals and entities who have been unjustly denied insurance claims. For over three decades, Varnum, LLP has been his firm of choice, and Mark has consistently shaped the landscape of Michigan Insurance Law, earning a reputation for aggressive advocacy and meticulous legal strategy. He is regularly sought out as a speaker on complex insurance issues for continuing legal education programs and other bar-related activities, showcasing his deep knowledge and commitment to advancing the legal profession.

As the lead attorney in litigation matters dealing with employee benefit issues under ERISA, Mark possesses unparalleled expertise in navigating the intricate world of benefits law. He’s not just a litigator; he’s a strategic legal counsel who has successfully handled all facets of employee benefit litigation, from initial claim denials to multi-employer plan contribution disputes. His counsel has been invaluable to a national food processor and a leading Big Three auto maker, demonstrating his ability to handle complex, high-stakes matters across diverse industries.

Mark's dedication to excellence extends to his extensive appellate practice. He has consistently appeared at every level of state and federal court in the country, including the United States Supreme Court. Notably, his representation of the County of Kent in *Northwest Airlines v. The County of Kent*, 510 U.S. 355 (1994), culminated in a landmark decision from the Supreme Court – a testament to his strategic thinking and persuasive legal arguments. Furthermore, he argued *en banc* before the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit in *Nixon v. County of Kent*, 76 F3d 1381 (6th Cir. 1996), highlighting his mastery of appellate advocacy.

Mark’s commitment to the legal community extends beyond his courtroom successes. He serves on the Policy Committee at Varnum, chairs the Contributions Committee, and coordinates Varnum's Pro Bono Services Program, which he has skillfully managed for over ten years. This demonstrates his dedication to supporting access to justice and fostering a culture of service within the firm.

Practice Areas: Mark Allard specializes in providing expert legal representation in the following areas:

1. Commercial Litigation: He skillfully handles complex commercial disputes, utilizing his deep understanding of legal principles and litigation strategies to achieve favorable outcomes for his clients.
2. Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law: Mark’s profound expertise in ERISA allows him to effectively represent clients in benefit claim disputes, multi-employer plan issues, and other complex benefits-related matters.
3. Litigation – ERISA: He offers comprehensive litigation services specifically focused on ERISA claims, providing strategic counsel and aggressive representation to protect his clients' rights.

Awards & Recognition: Mark Allard’s exceptional legal abilities and dedication to his profession have been consistently recognized with numerous prestigious awards:

• Lawyer of the Year: Litigation - ERISA (Grand Rapids) – 2023, 2021, 2018, 2016
• Recognized: Commercial Litigation, Recognized: Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law, Recognized: Litigation - ERISA
• Martindale-Hubbell Rating: AV® Preeminent™ – Indicating a highest level of peer review for professional expertise and judgment.

Education & Credentials: Mark Allard’s qualifications and experience solidify his position as a leading legal expert:

• Extensive Appellate Practice: He has appeared before every level of state and federal court in the United States, including the United States Supreme Court.
• Key Litigation Cases: Successfully represented the County of Kent in *Northwest Airlines v. The County of Kent*, 510 U.S. 355 (1994), leading to a Supreme Court decision. Also argued *en banc* before the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit in *Nixon v. County of Kent*, 76 F3d 1381 (6th Cir. 1996).
• National Benefit Counsel: Served as benefit counsel for a national food processor and a Big Three Auto Maker.
• Pro Bono Leadership: Chairs the Contributions Committee and coordinates Varnum’s Pro Bono Services Program.

Affiliations: Mark S. Allard is dedicated to staying at the forefront of the legal field and actively participates in several organizations:

• Recognized Since: Recognized in Best Attorney USA since 2013
• City: Grand Rapids
• State: Michigan
• Country: United States

Bar Admissions: Mark S. Allard is admitted to practice in all courts of the United States.