This is My Story
I believe in a world where people are focused on connecting and building relationships rather than facing each day in a constant state of worry, concern, and uncertainty. I believe that families should be secure and protected from the unknown. I believe that having a plan creates peace of mind which will enhance each day allowing people to focus on what is truly important to them.
When my father was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer, my family’s world stopped. Unfortunately, my family had not prepared for what happens next. Dealing with the day to day issues of medical decisions, running a business, and making financial decisions was extremely difficult as the necessary Power of Attorney documentation was not in place. Thankfully, after many treatments, he recovered, however it made me realize what is truly important in life, and that not having a plan makes a bad situation much much worse.
Areas of Practice
- Automobile Accidents
- Motorcycle Accidents – Plaintiff
- Animal Bites – Plaintiff
- Wrongful Death – Plaintiff
Litigation Percentage
- Practice Devoted to Litigation 100%
- Michigan, 1980
- U.S. District Court Western District of Michigan, 1982
- U.S. Court of Appeals 6th Circuit, 1982
- Detroit College of Law, Detroit, Michigan
- J.D. cum laude – 1980
- Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, Michigan, B.S.
- Honors: Magna Cum Laude
- Major: Criminal Justice
- Major: Sociology
- Major: Political Science
- Kalamazoo Co Bar Association
- Michigan Bar Association
- Michigan Association for Justice
- Halpert & Koning PC, Associate, 1983 – 1986
- Gemrich Moser et al, Partner, 1986 – 2001
+ YEARS of EXPERIENCE
When my first daughter was born, I viewed the world with a new perspective. I realized that protecting her was my top priority. What would happen if I was not thereto guide her and help her grow? I realized that my family needed a plan to provide money, resources and personal spiritual guidance if the worst were to happen. That week, I updated my families estate plan and have encouraged many young families to do the same.
As far as my educational history is concerned, I earned my Juris Doctor from Thomas M. Cooley Law School where I graduated Magna Cum Laude and was in the top 3% of my class. I received the Eugene Krasicky Award for outstanding work for the Thomas M. Cooley Law Review Board and was a member of the Negotiations and Alternative Dispute Resolution National Team. I focused my legal education on business and negotiation strategies and tactics. Prior to attending law school, I was the vice president of a small mortgage brokerage firm in Kalamazoo Michigan and have been a licensed real estate agent in the State of Michigan for the over 15 years.
I understand the prudence of proper planning, debt, and the effect a poorly executed plan can have on a family or business. Whether building an estate plan or starting a new business, preparation is key.
Throughout my career as a professional mortgage broker, I learned the inner workings of credit, collections, and judgments. Handling old debts, collections, and reestablishing a credit profile is essential in our consumer economy. I enjoy assisting clients with reestablishing credit and financial independence.
I am married to the love of my life Amy, and together we have two beautiful daughters, Natalie and Sasha, while two cats and a dog named Clark round out our family. Amy is a Nurse Practitioner at Pine Rest and is passionate for caring for, treating, and healing those faced with psychological and mental disorders. Amy is also proud to serve her country as a member of the Michigan Army National Guard and currently holds the rank of Captain. (She hasn’t made me salute her yet).
I believe in building lasting relationships with my clients and I try to bring a “think outside of the box” approach to my work. I believe in looking at each situation as if the glass were half full not half empty. I always strive to not just meet, but to exceed each client’s expectations.
Memberships
State Bar of Michigan
Kalamazoo County Bar Association
Admitted to Practice
State of Michigan
Western District of Michigan (Federal Court / Bankruptcy Court)
“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” – Galatians 6:9
