Matthew A. Schenk

Matthew A. Schenk is a Detroit government and municipal lawyer with more than 30 years of combined legal and public-sector experience. His practice includes government contracting, municipal law, real estate, economic development, mediation, and labor and employment matters. He represents public and private clients in matters involving government operations, contracts, development projects, and regulatory concerns. His background gives him extensive insight into the legal and administrative issues affecting municipalities and businesses.

Schenk earned his J.D. from Wayne State University Law School. He completed his undergraduate education at the University of Michigan, where he double majored with honors. His legal and academic training provided a strong foundation in public law, contracts, negotiation, and organizational problem-solving. This background supports his work on government transactions, municipal matters, real estate projects, and disputes involving public entities.

Schenk previously served as chief operating officer and chief compliance officer of the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department. He helped resolve a 36-year environmental compliance court action and developed a framework that contributed to the Great Lakes Water Authority. His earlier Wayne County roles included chief of staff, assistant county executive, and principal attorney. He managed departments with nearly 2,000 employees and worked on the county’s $2 billion annual budget process.

Matthew A. Schenk has received Crain’s 40 Under 40 recognition and participated in the Detroit Regional Chamber’s Leadership Detroit program. His civic involvement has included SMART, SEMCOG, the Detroit Transportation Corporation, and several economic development and tax credit authorities. His background combines municipal law, government leadership, economic development, mediation, and private practice experience, providing a broad perspective on complex public and commercial matters.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Schenk & Bruetsch PLC
• Member, Michigan Bar​ Association

Licensed State

• Michigan

Education

• Wayne State University Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Michigan
  Bachelor’s degrees