Attorneys
John D. Staran Print

Listed in the 2008 and 2009 issues of Super Lawyer, and named as a "Top Lawyer in Metro Detroit" by dbusiness, John D. Staran also carries the distinction of an AV rating by the Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory. A principal at Hafeli StaranĀ & Christ, P.C., Mr. Staran applies his legal abilities to the following areas of law: local government, land use and zoning, real estate, property taxation, historic preservation, construction, business transactions and environmental law, and general civil practice, with special expertise in representing and advising local governments and public officials, boards, and commissions.

Currently serving as the Rochester Hills City Attorney and the Franklin Village Attorney, Mr. Staran also counsels the Oxford Downtown Development Authority. An expert in his field, he has written and spoken at seminars and conferences on a number of local government and real estate law topics, including: zoning and land use, land division, historic preservation, sign regulation, ordinance enforcement, property taxation, and home rule.

Mr. Staran's experience includes service as special legal counsel to the Walled Lake DDA, Berkley DDA, City of Berkley, and Orion Township. Additionally, he has represented municipal clients in state and federal trial and appellate courts, Michigan Tax Tribunal, State Tax Commission, State Historic Preservation Review Board, and other administrative agencies.

Born in Framingham, Massachusetts and residing in Farmington Hills, Michigan, John D. Staran is married with two children. He is a long-time youth ice hockey and baseball coach, and is on the board of directors of the Farmington Hills Hockey Association.

Education:

  • J.D., University of Notre Dame, 1983;
  • B.A. (with distinction), University of Michigan-Dearborn, 1980.

Professional Memberships:

  • Oakland County Bar Association;
  • Former Chairperson, Municipal Law Committee.

Community Involvement:

  • Long-time youth ice hockey and baseball/softball coach.
  • House Director of the Farmington Hills Hockey Association.