Michael J. TerBeek
Mr. TerBeek is a shareholder and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Wheeler Upham, P.C. He handles business law, both as a counselor and advisor to businesses and through the handling of commercial and business litigation. In addition, Mr. TerBeek devotes a substantial portion of his practice to estate planning, helping individuals, couples, and families to create comprehensive estate plans, providing effective and efficient solutions for simple or complex situations.
As a business attorney, Mr. TerBeek serves as a general business counselor to local, regional, and national companies. He routinely assists clients with all aspects of business start-ups, from the formation of an LLC or corporation, initial investment and financing, and drafting of a lease or real estate purchase agreement to the creation of standard terms and conditions for construction contracts, the negotiation of supplier contracts, and employment contracts. Mr. TerBeek also advises non-profit organizations, including guiding them through the application process for recognition by the IRS as public charities to obtain non-profit status. In addition, he represents the interests of his clients before municipal bodies such as taxing authorities, planning commissions, zoning boards, and other local agencies.
In the courtroom, Mr. TerBeek works closely with clients to identify their unique goals in litigation, recognizing or crafting optimal strategies and creative solutions for each dispute. He handles issues related to corporate governance, breach of contract, collections, easements and land rights, and transactional disputes. He has tried both jury and bench trials in Michigan district courts and circuit courts and has argued before the Michigan Court of Appeals.
Mr. TerBeek works to make the estate planning process manageable and understandable for every client. He is committed to providing clients with comprehensive and affordable estate planning, including the preparation of wills, the creation of trusts, powers of attorney, medical powers of attorney, special needs trusts, and other documents.
Mr. TerBeek is a recognized leader in his fields. He holds an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbel, which also distinguishes him as a Client Champion. He is named as a Top Attorney by The Best Lawyers in America in the practice area of Commercial Litigation, as a Top Lawyer by Grand Rapids Magazine in Commercial Litigation, and by AM Best for General Defense – Business Law and Commercial Litigation. Prior to entering the practice of law, Mr. TerBeek was a high school teacher. He is active in his church and has served in various capacities for his alma mater, Calvin University.
Bar Admissions
- Michigan, 2005
- U.S. District Court, Western District of Michigan, 2005
Education
- JD, University of Minnesota, 2005, Cum Laude
- BA, Calvin College, 1996 (dual major: psychology and philosophy; teaching certificate in history)
Employment History
- Private practice, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 2005-Present
- History and English teacher, Central High School, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 2000 to 2002
AWARDS
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Named as a Top Attorney by The Best Lawyers in America in the practice area of Commercial Litigation
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Named as a Top Lawyer by Grand Rapids Magazine in Commercial Litigation
Volunteer Associations
- AnchorPoint Christian School, Wyoming Michigan
- Calvin Christian Reformed Church, Grand Rapids Michigan
- Calvin College Alumni Association, Grand Rapids Chapter
Professional Associations
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State Bar of Michigan
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Grand Rapids Bar Association


