Hirlye 'Ryan' Lutz III, Business Attorney in Birmingham, Alabama

Ryan Lutz is a compassionate competitor. Inspired to enter the highly adversarial field of litigation after playing collegiate basketball, Ryan has successfully focused his competitive spirit toward helping those injured personally and economically by large corporations who place profits over safety and fairness. Ryan believes that helping people through the law gives ordinary people a voice and his “win the day” approach to practicing law gives a powerful voice to those who need it.Born and raised in Birmingham, Ryan earned his undergraduate degree from Auburn University before returning to Birmingham to pursue his Juris Doctor at Cumberland School of Law at Sam ford University. Since joining Cory Watson 11 years ago, Ryan served as class counsel for one certified nationwide class action against an automobile manufacturer, and two certified nationwide class actions against fireplace manufacturers. The fireplace manufacturers made dangerous glass front fireplaces that were severely injuring infants and toddlers who accidently touched the glass and suffered third degree burns. As a result of litigation, the fireplace industry changed its standards to require mandatory safety screens, preventing further harm to young children.Ryan’s drive to help and connect to fellow citizens nationwide is evidenced by his work, his lifestyle, and his concern for children extends beyond the courtroom. He is a board member and current president of the Tumtum Tree Foundation, a charity that raises money for local children’s charities. The foundation has raised over $10,000,000.When he’s not working, he and his wife are experiencing the joys of parenthood as they recently had their first child, Asher. Ryan also enjoys sports, exercise, travel, food, wine, and music.HONORS, AWARDS & ACCOMPLISHMENTSSuper Lawyers, Alabama Rising Stars, 2012­-2015Birmingham Magazine, Top Birmingham AttorneysBirmingham Business Journal Rising StarMealey’s Pharmaceutical Superconference, “Digitek­An Overview,” Guest SpeakerHB Litigation Conference, “Fleet Phospho­Soda­Over the Counter Drug Litigation,” Guest SpeakerAlabama Association for Justice, “Spotting a Class Action—Don’t Miss Your Opportunity,” Guest SpeakerFull athletic basketball scholarship to The University of Alabama at HuntsvilleThe University of Alabama at Huntsville, Dean’s ListAuburn University, Dean’s ListCumberland School of Law, Dean’s ListCumberland School of Law, Scholar of Merit Award