Difference Makers
UM-Dearborn Difference Makers are at the forefront of their fields. They’re improving the lives of others and making an impact on campus and in our local communities.
Eric Nemeth, ’85 BA, a partner leading Varnum’s Tax Planning, Compliance, and Litigation Practice Team, has extensive experience in tax law, civil and criminal matters, and complex financial investigations. Eric excels in organizing technical defenses for investigations and conducting proactive fraud investigations for suspected embezzlement or theft. He represents businesses, individuals, and entities in IRS, FBI, Homeland Security, and other law-enforcement investigations.
His prior government roles include senior trial lawyer for IRS Chief Counsel and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, where he received multiple performance awards. He served in the U.S. Army as a Judge Advocate, providing legal support for criminal investigations and civil tax examinations.
Eric is a regular visiting professor, lecturer, and author, recognized with numerous peer awards. His honors include being named DBusiness© magazine’s Top Lawyers in Tax Law since 2011, Best Lawyers in America® since 2012 and Lawyer of the Year in 2022, and induction into the Michigan Lawyers Weekly Hall of Fame in 2024, among many others.
His professional affiliations include the American Bar Association and the Detroit Veterans Bar Association. He is also involved in community activities, serving as a Trustee of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and as an adjunct professor at Michigan State University College of Law and Walsh College.
Eric and his wife Paula (‘85 BA, TeachCert) have been long-time supporters of UM-Dearborn. They have hosted UM-Dearborn alumni events in their home and established multiple scholarships supporting funds across campus. Eric has mentored students and represented the alumni voice at many alumni and university events, including sitting on the most recent Chancellor Search Advisory Committee. Over the years, Eric has also served in many leadership positions, including co-chair for the Victors for Michigan Campaign and member of the CASL Dean’s Advisory Board.
