Don has practiced law in his hometown of Grand Rapids since his graduation from the University of Detroit School of Law in 1992. Over the course of more than twenty-five years, Don has developed a strong practice representing the varied legal needs of closely held and family owned businesses of all types and has provided related legal services to the individuals and families associated with those businesses. He has also developed long-term friendships with his clients as a result of providing thoughtful counsel focusing on efficiently achieving each client's unique vision and goal. Don's varied experience allows him to provide his clients with the appropriate advice for their specific needs—ranging from isolated day-to-day business operational tasks to long-term and complex planning. His knowledge of the interrelated areas of business succession planning, real estate, and estate planning ensures that his clients have the opportunity to explore creative and effective strategies to accomplish their specific desired results.

Areas of Emphasis

Mergers, acquisitions, and related business transactions, including entity selection and formation; ownership succession and divestment; financing structures and security negotiations; real estate transactions and development; liquor license acquisition, transfer, and compliance; and estate planning and probate administration.

Professional Affiliations

Don is licensed to practice law in the States of Michigan and Montana. Don is a member of the State Bar of Michigan, State Bar of Montana, and the Grand Rapids Bar Association. Don is also a member of the Michigan Restaurant Association; the Michigan Licensed Beverage Association; and the State Bar of Michigan's Business Law Section, Probate and Estate Planning Section, and Administrative and Regulatory Law Section.

Education

Don graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Arts and received his Juris Doctorate from the University of Detroit School of Law.

Community and Board Service

• West Catholic High School, Board of Director, Executive Committee Member (former)
• St. Ann's Home, Board of Director, Executive Committee Member (former)
• Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist, Lowell, Advisory Board Member (former)
• Grand Rapids Right to Life, Board of Director (former)
• Right to Life of Michigan, Political Action Committee Member (former)
• City of Grand Rapids, Board of Zoning Appeals (former)
• Catholic Lawyers Association Member
• Association for Corporate Growth Member
• Economic Club of Grand Rapids Member
• Foreign Affairs Council of West Michigan Member
• Commercial Alliance of Realtors Member
• University Club of Grand Rapids Member
• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Citizens Academy graduate
• Arlington Race Course Thoroughbred Club Member
• High School track and field competition meet official
• Girls AA travel hockey game day volunteer
• 5K and sprint triathlete