Dykema Adds Experienced Automotive Attorney William Kohler to Detroit Office

Dykema, a leading national law firm, today announced the addition of William J. Kohler to its Corporate Finance Practice Group as senior counsel in the firm’s Detroit office. Kohler has held leadership positions at major corporations in the automotive industry throughout his career. Most recently, he served as Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary of global automotive suppliers Dura Automotive Systems, LLC, and Global Automotive Systems, LLC, and previously was Vice President and General Counsel for the North and South American automotive operations of Johnson Controls, Inc.

As a general counsel and in private practice, Kohler has advised some of the world’s largest automakers and suppliers. He has led some of the automotive industry’s larger and more complicated acquisitions and divestitures, negotiated specialized supply agreements involving the sale and purchase of billions of dollars in critical components, created key joint ventures, and established international operations and distribution networks. He has also led development of significant intellectual property arrangements, including technology licensing and joint development arrangements, and authored the article “Current and Potential Legal Issues Pertaining to Automated, Autonomous and Connected Vehicles.”

“In addition to his strong background in the automotive sector, Bill brings deep expertise on corporate governance and regulatory matters,” said Wilhelm E. Liebmann, Leader of Dykema’s Corporate Finance Practice Group. “He has ties to leaders in Washington, a good grasp of state and local economic development initiatives and has counseled a variety of clients on cross-border matters.”

“Bill’s résumé and years of experience working with automotive heavyweights make him a great fit at Dykema,” said Brendan J. Cahill, Director of Dykema's Automotive Industry Group. “His background and experience will be a great value for our clients.”

Kohler received a J.D. from the University of Michigan and a A.B. from the University of Michigan Honors College. He also received an M.B.A. from Michigan State University.