Miller Canfield’s Jerome Watson Inducted into Michigan Lawyers Weekly Hall of Fame
Miller Canfield is proud to announce that Jerome Watson has been named to the Michigan Lawyers Weekly Hall of Fame Class of 2025. This prestigious honor recognizes senior members of the legal profession who have made lasting contributions to the law and the legal community in Michigan.
With a career spanning nearly five decades, Watson is widely regarded as one of the state's preeminent litigators, particularly in employment and commercial litigation. His legal acumen, trial advocacy, and dedication to mentoring young attorneys have left an indelible mark on the profession.
“Jerome is a true titan in the Michigan legal community,” said Miller Canfield CEO Mike Palizzi. “His impact extends far beyond his successes in the courtroom. He has been a champion for diversity, a mentor to countless attorneys, and a leader dedicated to improving access to justice. We are thrilled to see him receive this well-deserved recognition.”
Watson has successfully represented clients in complex disputes involving employment discrimination, breach of contract, class actions, and constitutional law. Among his notable cases, he led a groundbreaking civil RICO action for the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department, recovering millions for the city, and secured key victories in high-stakes class actions, including a $250 million tax dispute. His ability to connect with juries, devise creative trial strategies, and navigate challenging cases has earned him a reputation as a “tiger in the courtroom.”
Beyond his legal practice, Watson has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to mentorship and service. As a former managing director of Miller Canfield, he helped lead the firm with a collaborative and inclusive approach. He chaired the firm’s Diversity Committee for over a decade, helping to increase representation and foster opportunities for minority attorneys. His leadership extends to the broader legal community, where he is a Fellow of the College of Labor and Employment Lawyers and an active member of the State Bar of Michigan, National Bar Association, and Detroit Metropolitan Bar Association.
Watson’s service to the community is equally distinguished. He served 12 years on the board of the Detroit Public Schools Foundation, including five as chair, working to expand educational opportunities for students. He also sits on the boards of Services to Enhance Potential (STEP) and the Detroit Institute of Arts’ African American Art auxiliary and has been a dedicated youth basketball coach.
Watson’s approach to the law is informed by his unique background in journalism and creative writing, giving him an unmatched ability to craft compelling narratives in the courtroom. His journey—from a college activist advocating for justice to a highly respected litigator—underscores his lifelong dedication to fairness, advocacy, and mentorship.
