Law firm expands footprint

Law firm expands footprint

Stephanie Fekkes. Courtesy Rhoades McKee

A local law firm has extended its reach in West Michigan.

Grand Rapids-based Rhoades McKee opened a new office in Hastings, at 150 W. Court St., according to the firm last month.

“We look forward to providing comprehensive services to Hastings and the surrounding communities,” said Paul McCarthy, president, Rhoades McKee. “Centrally located between Grand Rapids, Lansing and Kalamazoo, Hastings offers us a unique location to connect with individuals and businesses in these West Michigan communities.

“With key industry and employment sectors in manufacturing, health care and construction, this expansion provides Rhoades McKee the opportunity to expand services to new clients, as well as serve existing clients efficiently at a more convenient location. We have plans to remodel and expand the office to accommodate additional attorneys and staff.”

The new office will be led by Hastings attorney Stephanie Fekkes, who joined Rhoades McKee as a shareholder.

Fekkes has been an "active" member of the Hastings community for over 25 years.

“Our office and staff will remain intact, as we continue to serve our clients and the community from the same location," Fekkes said. "This allows me to continue living, working and supporting development opportunities in Hastings, Barry County and the surrounding communities.”

Fekkes practices family law, including divorce, adoption, custody and visitation, estate planning and probate and trust administration. She also specializes in corporate and real estate law, including real estate acquisitions, development and management.

Fekkes was the Hastings city attorney for 10 years, Hastings assistant city attorney for three years, probate judge of Barry County in 2004, special prosecuting attorney for Thornapple Township and the Village of Nashville for code violations and special counsel for the Village of Freeport for specific requested services.

She is a member of the Grand Rapids Bar Association, Barry County Bar Association, State Bar of Michigan Family Law Section and Western Michigan Estate Planning Council.

She holds a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University and a J.D. from Western Michigan University Cooley Law School.