Richard R. Rick Symons

Workers' Compensation Law - Employers

4.0 (1 reviews)

Grand Rapids, Michigan

36+ years experience

Varnum LLP

Updated: Jan 03, 2026

Contact Information

616-336-6000

https://www.varnumlaw.com/people/richard-r-symons

Bridgewater Place, Suite 1700, 333 Bridge Street, NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504

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Bio

Rick is a member of Varnum's Labor and Employment Practice Group. He focuses on the defense of employers in workers’ compensation litigation, from managing contested cases in an aggressive and efficient manner to assessing cost-containment methods. He represents employers at all levels of the court system, including the Workers’ Compensation Appellate Court, the Michigan Court of Appeals, and Michigan Supreme Court. Rick has handled multiple Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) inspections and appeals, including appeals of citations following a complaint, serious injury, or death of an employee. Rick is a member of Varnum's Labor and Employment Practice Group. He focuses on the defense of employers in workers’ compensation litigation, from managing contested cases in an aggressive and efficient manner to assessing cost-containment methods. He represents employers at all levels of the court system, including the Workers’ Compensation Appellate Court, the Michigan Court of Appeals, and Michigan Supreme Court. Rick has handled multiple Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) inspections and appeals, including appeals of citations following a complaint, serious injury, or death of an employee.

Local Legal Snapshot

Jurisdiction

Michigan

State Capital

Lansing

Highest Court

Michigan Supreme Court

Bar Association

State Bar of Michigan

Typical Consultation

$150-$300

Typical Hourly Range

$250-$450/hr

Fee Model Notes

Hourly or flat-fee billing is common.

Estimates vary by market, complexity, urgency, and attorney experience.

Practice Areas

Workers' Compensation Law - Employers

Awards & Recognition

Recognized: Workers' Compensation Law - Employers
Practice Area: Workers' Compensation Law

Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2005

Education

Wayne State University, J.D., graduated 1989
Central Michigan University, BS, graduated 1986

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Reviews

Michelle Nelson

3 months ago

A trusted advisor for complex workers' compensation defense

Rick Symons at Varnum provided exceptional counsel when we faced a complex, contested workers' compensation claim. His 36 years of experience, particularly his recognized expertise in employer-side defense, was immediately evident. He managed the litigation with a strategic, aggressive approach that protected our interests effectively. While communication was sometimes slower than ideal during peak periods, his deep knowledge of Michigan law and practical guidance were invaluable. We felt well-represented by a true veteran in this specific field.