Stephen J. Rhodes
Member
Overview & Experience
Steve has practiced law since 1987, specializing in energy law, public utilities, and appeals.
Steve focuses on complex commercial and regulatory appeals, particularly utility regulation issues involving service and rates for electricity, renewable energy, natural gas, municipal water systems, and sanitary and storm sewers. He has been involved in extensive litigation before trial and appellate courts throughout Michigan, including some of the most significant utility and municipal cases before the Michigan Court of Appeals and Supreme Court.
He particularly enjoys writing briefs and managing complex litigation. His deep historical knowledge and understanding of regulatory and judicial processes, paired with an ability to identify the controlling issues and clearly explain to decision-makers the legal and policy support for positions are among his best assets to clients.
Prior to co-founding FSBR in 2008, Steve was a partner at Foster Swift Collins & Smith PC.
When he’s not at work, Steve enjoys being outside enjoying nature while hiking and biking.
EXPERIENCE
- DTE Electric
- DTE Gas
- A variety of municipalities and drain commissioners
Honors & Education
EDUCATION
- Wayne State University Law School, J.D., 1986, Order of the Coif
- Oakland University, B.S., Economics, 1983, magna cum laude
BAR ADMISSIONS
- All Michigan state courts
- U.S. Supreme Court
- U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals
- U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Michigan
- U.S. District Court, Western District of Michigan
HONORS
- Best Lawyers in America: Administrative/Regulatory Law and Energy Law, since 2013
- Super Lawyers: Energy & Natural Resources, Appellate, and Administrative Law, since 2017
Professional Activities
- Member, State Bar of Michigan’s Appellate Practice Council, 2006–2012
- Judicial clerk, Chief Judge Robert J. Danhof of Michigan Court of Appeals, 1988–1989
