Donald E. Barris was a founder and senior member of Barris, Sott, Denn & Driker. He was one of the deans of the legal community in southeastern Michigan. Don practiced law in Detroit since 1939, until his death in 2010.  He had a well-earned reputation as a highly-skilled, tenacious business litigator. Don successfully tried many significant zoning, construction, real estate, corporate, partnership and probate matters. Among his clients were a wide variety of churches, synagogues and other non-profit organizations who turned to him for counsel, guidance and his litigation skills in dealing with municipalities over land use, building permit and zoning issues.

Don's allegiance to his clients was legendary. Many relied upon him as a valued business and financial counselor for more than 70 years. He represented the metropolitan Detroit meat, fish and poultry industries in labor negotiations for over 40 years. Don was also called upon by both employers and labor unions as an impartial mediator or arbitrator in resolving labor disputes.

Education
B.A., Wayne State University

J.D., Wayne State University Law School

Honors and Awards
Don was awarded a gold key in recognition of his scholastic achievement upon graduation from Wayne State University Law School.

Don was recognized by the Wayne State University Law School for his generosity in providing funds for the development of a computer laboratory, a student lounge and the Donald E. Barris Trial Practice Program.