Thomas A. Kuiper
Biography
Tom Kuiper is an experienced litigator with proficiency in a variety of cases and forums. He practices in State district, circuit, probate, federal and appellate courts, and in arbitration and mediation settings. He represents a variety of clients, from billion-dollar corporations in commercial litigation disputes to the individual involved in a personal dispute or family breakup.
Although the issues and forums may differ, Tom's approach remains the same: To relate to people, to communicate difficult legal concepts and information in a clear and simple manner, and to work on a personal level with the client.
Tom is married with six children. He lives in Ada with his family and enjoys sports and being involved in high school and college athletics.
Education
- Wayne State University Law School, Detroit, Michigan
- J.D. - 1992
- Hope College, Holland, MI
- B.A. - 1989
- Honors: cum laude
- Major: Economics
- Major: Business Administration
Past Positions
- Wheeler Upham, P.C., Shareholder, 1993 to 2005
- Michigan Court of Appeals, Law Clerk, 1992 to 1993
Published Works
- "Injecting Fault into No-Fault: Does SJI2d 50.11 Apply in a First-Party No-Fault Case?", (Co-Author with Jack L. Hoffman), Michigan Bar Journal, September, 1998
- Appellate Advocacy: Refresher Tips Before Oral Argument
Professional Associations
- American Bar Association
- Grand Rapids Bar Association, Chairman (Litigation Section), 2001 to 2005
- Federal Bar Association
- State Bar of Michigan
- Alternative Dispute Resolution Task Force, Kent County Circuit Court
- The Other Way Ministries, Board of Directors, VP and President, 1999 to 2003
- Garfield Park Neighborhoods Association, President, Board of Directors, 1995 to 2003
- Elder, Forest Hills Presbyterian Church, 2004 to 2007
Practice Areas
- Civil Litigation
- Trust & Estate Litigation
- Commercial Litigation
- Personal Injury Litigation
- Real Estate Litigation
- Family Litigation
- Mediation & Arbitration
- Domestic Relations
Bar Admissions
- Michigan, 1992
- U.S. District Court Western District of Michigan, 1992
- U.S. District Court Eastern District of Michigan, 1992
- U.S. Court of Appeals 6th Circuit, 1992
Honors
- Michigan Super Lawyer (multiple years)
- AV Rated by Martindale Hubbell (multiple years)
- AV Preeminent Rated
- Grand Rapids Magazine Leading Lawyers (multiple years)