Nick Mathews

Associate

nmathews@fsbrlaw.com | 517-210-3090
Practice Areas: Water Resources

Overview & Experience

Nick is a valued member of the firm’s Water Resources group, focusing on the legal and logistical aspects of drainage projects for county drain commissioners across Michigan. His strong organizational skills and ability to manage complex processes ensure that projects move forward efficiently and in compliance with the law.

Nick plays a key role in facilitating public engagement on behalf of county drain commissioners, ensuring that affected property owners and stakeholders are informed and involved throughout the process. He coordinates project timelines, drafts public notices, and prepares essential materials for hearings such as Boards of Determination and Days of Review. His ability to communicate effectively with clients, engineers, and the public helps streamline these often complex proceedings.

Beyond working directly on drainage projects, Nick has conducted in-depth legal research on various property law issues and has played a role in supporting key legislation that will benefit our clients. His experience includes drafting legislative amendments, including proposed revisions to Chapter 22 of the Michigan Drain Code, which will provide additional resources for county drain commissioners to address flooding and watershed management challenges.

Outside of work, Nick enjoys spending time with his wife, Becca, fishing, cooking, and cheering on MSU athletics. As a lover of music, he also plays guitar whenever he finds the time. Though originally from New York, Nick has embraced Michigan as his home and is committed to serving its communities with diligence and dedication.

EXPERIENCE

  • Drafted proposed amendments to Chapter 22 of the Michigan Drain Code, addressing compromises between legislators and stakeholders to provide additional resources to county drain commissioners to alleviate flooding and water-related concerns at a watershed level, addressing the limitation that work solely be conducted on established county drains.
  • Prepared materials for public hearings/meetings related to drainage projects, including drafting notices, managing project deadlines, and coordinating correspondence between stakeholders.
  • Assisted with easement acquisition, including easement drafting, obtaining and reviewing title work, and drafting easement encroachment/obstruction letters on behalf of county drain commissioners.

Publications & Presentations

  • Co-authored “Update: New Protections for Nursing and Pregnant Employees in the Workplace.”

Honors & Education

  • Siena College (Loudonville, NY) – B.A. in Liberal Arts, major in History, minor in Political Science, Pre-Law Certificate; magna cum laude, 2021
  • Michigan State University College of Law – Juris Doctor (J.D.); cum laude, 2024

BAR ADMISSIONS

  • State Bar of Michigan

Professional Activities

  • State Bar of Michigan Administrative Regulatory Law Section
  • State Bar of Michigan Environmental Law Section
  • State Bar of Michigan Government Law Section
  • State Bar of Michigan Young Lawyers Section
  • Michigan Association County of Drain Commissioners Young Professionals Committee