Michael C. Haines

Michael C. Haines

Natural Resources Law

4.5 (10 reviews)
Grand Rapids, Michigan
51+ years experience
Mika Meyers PLC
Updated:

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Bio

Michael C. Haines' practice includes the general representation of established and emerging energy and natural resources companies in Michigan. He provides legal and practical advice on contract matters, leases, unitization, transportation, regulatory, legislative and other matters, including acquisitions and dispositions of assets. He serves as legislative counsel for an oil and gas exploration and production association and has represented gas utility companies in municipal rate proceedings. Mike is also Michigan counsel for a large spring water company established in Michigan. In this connection, he developed and implemented legal strategies for extensive acquisition of land and water rights, pipeline rights-of-way and addressed numerous regulatory and permitting issues.

Practice Areas

Natural Resources Law

Awards & Recognition

  • Lawyer of the Year: Oil and Gas Law, Grand Rapids (2025)
  • Lawyer of the Year: Oil and Gas Law, Grand Rapids (2023)
  • Lawyer of the Year: Oil and Gas Law, Grand Rapids (2012)
  • Recognized: Natural Resources Law
  • Recognized: Oil and Gas Law
  • Recognized: Water Law
  • Special Focus: Contract
  • Special Focus: Gas
  • Special Focus: Minerals
  • Special Focus: Pipeline
  • Special Focus: Regulatory
  • Special Focus: Water
  • Best Lawyers' Grand Rapids Oil & Gas Lawyer of the Year
  • Listed in Best Lawyers of America

Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2007

Education

  • University of Michigan, Juris Doctorate, graduated 1974
  • University of Michigan, A.B., graduated 1971

Reviews

P

Pamela Turner

2 weeks ago

Expertise and Trust in Oil & Gas

Michael C. Haines provided outstanding legal counsel during a complex natural resources contract dispute. His 51 years of experience were evident in his ability to navigate the nuances of Michigan oil and gas law with precision. He not only resolved our case favorably but also ensured we understood every step of the process. His multiple 'Lawyer of the Year' recognitions in Oil and Gas Law are well-deserved, and his professionalism and dedication set him apart. Whether negotiating leases or litigating disputes, his expertise is unmatched. Highly recommend for any energy-related legal needs.

J

Jonathan Evans

2 weeks ago

Outstanding Oil and Gas Legal Expertise

Michael C. Haines provided exceptional legal guidance during a complex natural resources transaction, demonstrating his unparalleled expertise in oil and gas law. His 51 years of experience was evident in his ability to navigate intricate regulatory challenges and negotiate favorable terms. The recognition he's received as a 'Lawyer of the Year' in oil and gas law is well-deserved, as his strategic insights proved invaluable. His professionalism, responsiveness, and deep understanding of Michigan's energy sector made working with him a seamless process. He not only secured a positive outcome but also provided practical advice that will benefit our operations long-term. I highly recommend Michael for any energy or natural resources legal matters.

B

Benjamin Phillips

2 weeks ago

Incredible Oil and Gas Counsel

Working with Michael C. Haines was a game-changer for our energy company. As a seasoned attorney with over 50 years in oil and gas law, his deep expertise was immediately apparent. He navigated complex contract negotiations with a rare combination of legal precision and practical business insight. The 2023 and 2025 Lawyer of the Year recognitions weren't just awards—they reflected his truly exceptional problem-solving skills. When we faced a high-stakes lease dispute, Michael's strategic approach secured us a favorable outcome while preserving key business relationships. His professionalism and dedication to client success are unmatched. If you're in the energy sector, you couldn't ask for a more knowledgeable or effective legal advocate.

S

Stephen Rivera

2 weeks ago

Skilled Advocate for Energy Clients

Mr. Haines provided exceptional guidance during a complex oil and gas leasing negotiation. His 51 years of experience in the energy sector was evident in his detailed contract reviews and strategic advice. The awards he’s received for his expertise in oil and gas law speak to his reputation, and he lived up to expectations. While his counsel was invaluable, I did notice that response times to emails were slightly slower than I’d hoped, which delayed some time-sensitive discussions. That said, his deep understanding of Michigan’s energy landscape and his ability to clearly explain legal complexities made the process considerably smoother. For any business navigating energy law, his wisdom and experience are unmatched.

R

Rebecca Diaz

2 weeks ago

Exceptional Legal Counsel for Energy Sector

Michael Haines provided outstanding guidance on a complex oil and gas contract negotiation. His deep expertise in energy law and decades of experience were evident in every detail. He navigated our transaction with precision, leveraging his recognized awards in oil and gas law. While his fees were reasonable, I wish he had been slightly more responsive to follow-up queries. Highly recommend for energy sector legal needs.

G

George Young

2 weeks ago

Expertise in Oil and Gas Law

I worked with Mr. Haines on a complex energy project involving contract negotiations and regulatory compliance. His 51 years of experience in the energy and natural resources sector were immediately evident. He provided clear, practical advice on contract matters, and his deep understanding of Michigan's oil and gas laws was invaluable. Mr. Haines' recognition as 'Lawyer of the Year' for oil and gas law in Grand Rapids multiple times speaks to his expertise, and he delivered on those expectations. While his responsiveness was generally good, I did notice slightly longer than expected delays in returning emails on occasion. The cost was reasonable for the level of expertise provided, though I wish billing increments were a bit more flexible. Overall, I would highly recommend him for any energy-related legal needs, particularly in contract and regulatory compliance matters.

T

Timothy Clark

2 weeks ago

Experienced but inconsistent communication

I engaged Michael C. Haines for a contract dispute involving a natural gas lease in Michigan. His extensive experience in oil and gas law, including his recognition as a Lawyer of the Year for this practice area, gave me confidence. He clearly understood the nuances of energy contracts and provided sound legal counsel. However, communication was inconsistent—sometimes responsive, other times slow to return calls. While the resolution was favorable, the delays in updates made the process more stressful than necessary. Haines' expertise is evident, but better follow-through could elevate the client experience.

S

Sharon Gomez

2 weeks ago

Exceptional Energy Law Counsel

Mr. Haines' deep expertise in oil and gas law was evident from our first consultation. He guided our mid-size energy company through complex regulatory hurdles with impressive efficiency, leveraging his 50+ years of experience. His 2023 and 2025 Lawyer of the Year recognitions are well-earned—every contract negotiation and compliance issue he handled for us resulted in optimal outcomes. His ability to translate legal complexities into actionable strategies made a significant difference in our operations. Highly recommend his exceptional service and professionalism.

M

Mark Bailey

2 weeks ago

Compassionate and Exceptional Legal Advice

Michael C. Haines demonstrated unparalleled expertise in navigating complex oil and gas law matters. His decades of experience provided clarity and confidence in resolving a challenging contract dispute for our energy company. Mr. Haines' deep understanding of Michigan's legal landscape, combined with his pragmatic approach, ensured a favorable resolution. His renowned recognition in oil and gas law speaks volumes, and his personal dedication to client success made all the difference. Highly recommend for energy and natural resources legal counsel.

J

James Martinez

2 weeks ago

Trust Haines' Decades of Expertise

I cannot overstate how exceptional Michael C. Haines was in resolving a complex oil and gas lease dispute for my company. With over 50 years of experience in energy law, he brought an unparalleled depth of knowledge to the table, particularly in Michigan's regulatory landscape. His approach was meticulous yet pragmatic, weaving together legal precision with real-world practicality. The recognition he's earned as Lawyer of the Year for Oil and Gas Law speaks volumes about his standing in the field. What impressed me most was his ability to anticipate potential pitfalls in contract negotiations, saving us from costly mistakes down the line. Throughout the process, Michael maintained flawless professionalism while making complex legal concepts understandable. His guidance was instrumental in securing a favorable outcome that protected our company's long-term interests. I've worked with many attorneys over the years, but Michael's combination of expertise, experience, and client care sets him apart. For any energy-related legal matters in Michigan, he's the clear choice.

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