Ben Kaiser is an Associate Attorney at Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes, where he works with municipal clients on matters involving local regulation, land use, and dispute-related issues. With a strong interest in public service and policy, he focuses on giving local officials guidance that is legally sound and practical to implement.

Much of Ben’s work begins long before a conflict reaches a courtroom. He helps municipalities develop and apply local regulations by drafting and updating ordinances, advising on zoning amendments and moratoriums, and assisting with police power ordinance updates when communities need to address new issues or strengthen enforcement. He also supports projects with lasting community impact, including Special Assessment District work and land-protection tools such as conservation easements and purchasing development rights. When matters do become contested, Ben helps prepare filings for arbitration and mediation, assists with brief writing, and drafts settlement documentation that helps move issues toward resolution.

Ben is drawn to municipal work because its impact is felt locally. He enjoys translating complex rules into clear options for local officials and helping clients choose a path that fits both legal authority and community priorities. With a background in social work, Ben brings a grounded perspective to the issues municipalities face and keeps the focus on how local decisions affect residents and community institutions.

Clients and colleagues value Ben’s approachable communication style and thorough preparation. He takes time to understand the full context and delivers guidance in a straightforward, workable way.

Before joining FSBR, Ben clerked with the Executive Office of the Governor’s Office of Legal Counsel and the ACLU of Michigan, and he previously served as a Summer Associate with the firm.

Outside of the office, Ben enjoys cooking—especially making soup and baking bread—and spending time outdoors hiking.

Experience

• Advised on zoning amendments, moratoriums, and police power ordinance amendments
• Supported the creation of Special Assessment Districts
• Drafted conservation easements and provided guidance on purchasing development rights
• Prepared filings for arbitration and mediation
• Drafted settlement agreements for complex litigation matters
• Provided litigation support and brief writing