Opalewski’s special interests include religious land use and constitutional law, seeks to counsel clients toward optimal solutions both in and out of the courtroom
DETROIT (August 13, 2018) – Attorney Lawrence Opalewski has rejoined the law firm Dalton & Tomich, PLC. Opalewski focuses his practice on land use and zoning litigation, as well as constitutional and civil rights litigation. Larry has significant experience in all aspects of litigation and has represented individuals, religious institutions, businesses and municipalities. His previous tenure with Dalton & Tomich was from 2013 to 2016
Larry was selected as a “Rising Star” litigator by Super Lawyers in 2017 and 2018. Before returning to Dalton & Tomich, Larry practiced civil defense law at a well-respected firm in the Metro Detroit area.
While he enjoys advocating for his clients through litigation, Larry also seeks to solve problems outside the courtroom. He has been certified by the State of Michigan as a civil mediator, and he appreciates the value of pre-litigation conflict resolution.
One area of particular interest in Larry’s practice is land use and zoning cases involving the Religious Land Use & Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA). Enacted in 2000, the law protects religious assemblies and institutions from zoning and land use regulations that substantially interfere with their religious exercise.
To assist religious leaders in navigating RLUIPA, Opalewski’s colleagues at Dalton & Tomich recently developed the definitive guide for religious leaders who find themselves unable to use newly acquired land or buildings. “Leveling the Playing Field” is a resource to help the leaders of churches, mosques and other houses of worship navigate the religious land use and zoning process. It is available as a free download at www.attorneysforlanduse.com/guide.
Larry is a member of the State Bar of Michigan and the Detroit Bar Association, and is admitted to practice in the Sixth Circuit and Ninth Circuit Courts of Appeal. He is a graduate of the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law and Oakland University. In law school, he was a Law Review Title Editor and published author.
When not practicing law, Larry enjoys serving his community and his church. He sits on the Clinton Township Planning Commission in suburban Detroit. While he is an avid fan of outdoor activities, fitness and sports, his greatest joys in life are his beautiful wife and daughter.
About Dalton & Tomich, PLC
Located in the heart of Detroit’s Financial District and with a new office in Illinois to serve the Chicago area, the law firm of Dalton & Tomich, PLC features a specialized practice in religious land use and zoning law, supporting churches, mosques and other religious institutions across the country. For more information, or to request a consultation, visit www.attorneysforlanduse.com or call 313.859.6000.
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