Honoring Black History: Alumnus Feature-Robbie Gaines '15
Robbie Gaines '15 is President-Elect of the Wolverine Bar Association (WBA). When he assumes the role of President during the 2024-2025 year, he will promote and adhere to the principles the WBA has stood for since it was established in the 1930s—justice for all, diversity in the legal profession, and community leadership. Through this influential role, he will join the ranks of the many distinguished attorneys who have served as past presidents of the WBA over the years.
“When I serve as President, I hope to increase the support and continuing education for our members. When we are better lawyers, we can create better outcomes for our communities and our clients,” stated Gaines. “We will be committed to improving the justice system and providing leadership on major issues affecting the profession and community. We will promote meaningful access to justice for all persons regardless of their economic or social conditions. We will promote diversity within the legal profession and responsibility for public service by the profession.”
Gaines owns a firm with Macie Tuiasosopo Gaines '13, who currently serves as treasurer of the WBA. Their firm, Gaines & Gaines, serves clients in a wide array of issues, including estate planning, civil litigation, family law, and personal injury. “Our firm allows us to cast a wider net to assist a diverse group of people and businesses. We are not driven by numbers; we are driven by the specific needs of each and every client,” explained Gaines.
“I did not jump right into my own firm,” said Gaines. “I worked at a reputable law firm where I learned and honed many skills of practice under the leadership of some of the finest senior attorneys before partnering with my wife.” He also served as a staff attorney at the Wayne County Third Circuit Court.
Gaines pursued a career in law to make a positive impact on people’s lives. “I knew there would be nothing more rewarding than standing strong with people in some of the most challenging times of their lives to advocate for their rights,” he explained.
As a mentor for law students and high school students, Gaines positively impacts both the lives of his mentees and the future of the legal profession. He provides his mentees with exposure to the legal profession and guidance on the path to becoming a lawyer.
While in law school, Gaines took advantage of the many opportunities available to students at Detroit Mercy Law. He participated in Law Review, Moot Court, the Black Law Students Association (BLSA), internships, and clinics. Now, as an alumnus, Gaines serves as a board member on the Detroit Mercy Law Association of Black Law Alumni. "Detroit Mercy Law taught me that reputation is paramount in the profession. I learned to be respectful and maintain composure even in the thick of things in our adversarial profession. I truly believe that Detroit Mercy Law educated me well and molded me into the complete lawyer."