Mallory E. Reader

Mallory is an attorney in Foster Swift's Municipal Practice Group, representing cities, townships, villages, public authorities, and other local governmental entities throughout Michigan.

FOIA & Public Records

Mallory advises municipalities on all aspects of Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) compliance, including responses to public records requests, exemptions, fee calculations, appeals, and litigation. She works closely with local officials and staff to develop practical procedures that promote transparency while reducing legal risk.

Zoning & Land Use

Mallory represents municipalities in zoning and land use matters, including rezonings, ordinance drafting, zoning appeals, and development review. She regularly attends planning commission and zoning board of appeals meetings, advising local officials on zoning, land use, and procedural issues and helping municipalities make well-supported decisions that can withstand legal challenge. Mallory also represents local governments in appeals arising from zoning and land use decisions, defending municipal actions in administrative proceedings and court.

Before joining the firm, Mallory worked in government relations and public policy, including positions in Washington, D.C., and the education sector. She earned her J.D. from the University of Notre Dame Law School and her B.A., cum laude, from Hope College. At Notre Dame, she served as an articles editor for the Journal of Legislation.

Outside the office, Mallory enjoys running, skiing, pottery, and reading. She serves on the Board of Directors of Girls on the Run West Michigan, helping advance the organization’s mission of empowering girls to build confidence, develop resilience, and recognize their own potential.

Legal Affiliations

• Grand Rapids Bar Association
• Women Lawyers Association of Michigan (WLAM)
  • Member, WLAM Journal Editorial Board, Vol. 2, Issue 1

Community Involvement

• Girls on the Run West Michigan
  • Board Member
• West Michigan Mountain Bike Alliance
• Notre Dame Club of Grand Rapids