Erin is an accomplished trial attorney and litigator, with experience both domestically and internationally. Drawing on her years of experience working in some of the world’s most challenging environments, Erin expertly assists clients to resolve difficult litigation issues and to identify, investigate, and mitigate legal threats through strategic advocacy.

As a former assistant U.S. Attorney in the Western District of Michigan, Erin has been a formidable presence in the courtroom, acting as the lead attorney in 12 federal jury trials, numerous federal appeals (including six oral arguments), and countless other federal court appearances. Erin led sensitive and complex investigations with numerous federal agencies, including the FBI, DEA, ATF, DHS, and IRS.

Erin also acted as the liaison for the federally-recognized tribes in Southern Division of the Western District of Michigan. She has extensive experience litigating complicated federal Indian law matters. In her current practice, she is focused on promoting tribal sovereignty and economic development.

Previously, Erin served with the U.S. Department of State at the U.S. Embassies in Kabul, Afghanistan; Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo; and Tegucigalpa, Honduras. She negotiated, drafted, and managed multimillion-dollar government contracts, grants, and inter-agency agreements. She served as the primary point of contact for Executive, Congressional, and oversight inquiries related to the rule of law.

Erin is a sought-after international expert on litigation and justice reform and routinely provides advisory and training services worldwide. She is fluent in Spanish and proficient in French.

Professional Speaking Engagements

• Gender-Based Violence in our District, lecturer, Federal Bench Bar Conference, September 2024
• Elevating Your Courtroom Presentation with Electronic Evidence, lecturer, Grand Rapids Bar Association, April 2024
• Combatting Corruption, program designer and lead instructor, University of South Carolina Rule of Law Collaborative, April 2024
• Countering Illegal Mining and Anti-Money Laundering, program designer lead instructor, University of South Carolina Rule of Law Collaborative and the Asia Foundation, May and October 2023 (Mongolia)
• “Direct and Cross-Examination Tips,” instructor, Grand Rapids Bar Association Indigent Criminal Defense Counsel Training, October 2021
• Community-Based Approach to Reducing Violent Crime in the Murder Capital (in Spanish), lecturer and panelist, L.A. Gang Conference, August 2018
• Criminal Justice Reform Techniques in Honduras, lead briefer, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and staff, March 2018 (Honduras)
• Security Reform and Rule of Law in Central America, briefer, Commander of U.S. Southern Command and staff, March 2016