Enrico Schaefer

Enrico Schaefer is the founding partner of Traverse Legal, PLC and manages the firm’s Detroit office. He has more than 30 years of legal experience. His practice focuses on complex litigation, artificial intelligence, technology, internet law, intellectual property law, business law, and digital rights. He represents startups, entrepreneurs, established companies, creators, influencers, and other clients in disputes and strategic matters involving emerging technologies and online business models.

Enrico earned a B.A. in Political Science from Albion College. He received his J.D., summa cum laude, from Michigan State University College of Law, ranking first in his class. He served as Managing Editor of the Detroit College of Law Review and received several American Jurisprudence Awards. His academic work included contracts, civil procedure, constitutional law, corporations, evidence, estates and trusts, and legal research and advocacy.

Enrico founded Traverse Legal in 2004 after working in private practice and technology-related business roles. Earlier, he served as president and general counsel of an internet startup in Boulder, Colorado. His litigation experience includes class actions, mass arbitration, cybersquatting, trademark and copyright disputes, publicity rights, non-compete matters, fiduciary claims, and commercial disputes. He has first-chair trial experience and has handled cases in federal and state courts across the United States.

Enrico Schaefer advises clients in industries involving SaaS, cloud computing, AI, blockchain, autonomous vehicles, social media, entertainment, and digital commerce. He serves as outside general counsel for companies requiring guidance on contracts, intellectual property, privacy, risk, and technology strategy. His professional involvement has included ICANN, the International Trademark Association, CompTIA, and technology-focused advisory groups. He is admitted in Michigan and in numerous federal courts.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founding Partner, Traverse Legal, PLC
• Member, State Bar of Michigan, Intellectual Property Section, IT Law Section
• Member, Detroit Bar Association
• Member, Grand Traverse Antrim Bar Association
• Member, Defense Research Institute (DRI)
• Member, American Trial Lawyers Association
• Member, Michigan Trial Lawyers Association
• Member, International Trademark Association

Licensed State

• Michigan

Education

• Michigan State University
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Albion College
  BA Political Science

Awards & Badges