Donald A. Gilbert

Donald A. Gilbert has over 25 years of trial and appellate practice before state, federal and administrative agencies. In his first 3 years, he served as Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Saginaw County. Thereafter, his practice has focused on employment law, labor law, civil rights, civil litigation and business disputes. Employment litigation experience includes claims involving race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, pregnancy, height, weight, marital status, sexual harassment, disability and discrimination. He also has extensive litigation experience in the areas of breach of express and implied contracts, restrictive covenants and non-competition agreements, employment related torts, including assault and battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, potential interference with contractual relationship or business expectancy, defamation, misrepresentation and public policy discharge.

Don’s practice includes estate planning and probate practice. He has represented clients in all phases of probate and estate planning matters, including the preparation of financial powers of attorney, powers of attorney for health care, wills, revocable and irrevocable trusts and special needs trusts. In November, 2005, Don received a Certificate of Completion in Probate and Estate Planning, issued by the Institute of Continuing Legal Education (ICLE) and the Probate and Estate Planning Section of the State Bar of Michigan. This program included nine extensive seminars.

Don’s experience in litigation caused him to become involved with facilitative mediation. In 2005, he completed a 40-hour training program approved by the Supreme Court Administrator’s Office to serve as a facilitative mediator. He has completed all requirements for certification under Michigan Court Rule and accepts appointments as a facilitative mediator.

Don was born in Saginaw, Michigan. He attended Central Michigan University where he received a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science. The emphasis within his Masters degree was personnel and labor relations administration. Don received his Juris Doctorate at Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 1985. He is a member of the American Bar Association and the State Bar of Michigan (Labor and Employment Law Section, Probate and Estate Planning Section, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Section). He is a past president of the Saginaw County Bar Association and a Fellow of the Michigan State Bar Association.

Don is active in a number of professional and civic organizations. He is a long term board member and past Chairman of Tri-County Community Adjudication Program (TriCAP). He is a member and past President of the Saginaw Northwest Kiwanis.