Varnum attorneys John Allen and Rebecca Wrock have recently assumed leadership roles within the State Bar of Michigan (SBM). Allen was reappointed to the Professionalism and Civility Committee, and Wrock was named Chair of the Animal Law Section.
Allen Reappointed to Professionalism and Civility Committee of SBM
The SBM Special Committee on Professionalism and Civility promotes integrity, civility, and respectful conduct among Michigan lawyers and judges, encouraging adherence to the Supreme Court’s Principles of Professionalism through education and outreach rather than discipline.
Allen is a trial attorney and senior counsel at Varnum with over 50 years of experience. As a certified arbitrator and mediator, he serves on the American Bar Association’s Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section (TIPS) Standing Committee on Ethics and Professionalism. His career includes serving as co-chair and liaison for both SBM and American Bar Association Special Task Forces on Attorney-Client Privilege and acting as an expert witness in matters of ethics, privilege, and legal practice.
Recognized as Board-Certified in Civil Trial Advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, he regularly contributes to legal education through writing, teaching, and presenting to professional groups. Allen’s career honors include recognition in the Best Lawyers in America® since 2005 and Michigan Super Lawyers since 2011.
Wrock Named Chair of Animal Law Section of SBM
The SBM Animal Law Section provides a forum for legal professionals focused on animal welfare, offering seminars, supporting public policy, and promoting awareness of animal law across Michigan.
Wrock is a partner at Varnum and is a member of the Estate Planning Practice Team. She handles all aspects of estate planning and settlement, including tax planning, cottage planning, charitable giving, business succession planning, and estate and trust administration.
A significant part of Wrock’s practice involves creating trusts for animal companions (pet trusts), and she frequently speaks and writes on the topic. She has been named to Crain’s list of Notable Women in Nonprofits, serves as vice president of Attorneys for Animals’ board, and helps nonprofits obtain and maintain tax-exempt status. She has also served as past chair of Barn Sanctuary’s board of directors, is a member of the adjunct faculty at Wayne State University Law School, and serves as a Council member for the SBM Probate and Estate Planning Section.
