Melissa B. Papke Partner
- Office
- Grand Rapids
- Phone
- 616/336-6425
- Fax
- 616/336-7000
- mbpapke@varnumlaw.com
- mbpapke@varnumlaw.com
- Download
- V-Card, Resume
- Assistant
- Charlene Vondett, 616/336-6555
Commercial Real Estate Experience
Melissa focuses her practice on corporate and real estate matters, with an emphasis on commercial sales, acquisitions, leasing, and redevelopment, as well as construction law. She has extensive experience in structuring primary and replacement real estate financing with banks, private investors, and joint venturers, including mezzanine and other uniquely structured secured loan facilities. She also offers her clients significant experience in negotiating commercial and industrial design and construction contracts, and counsels her clients throughout the construction process. In addition, Melissa has developed expertise in numerous aspects of residential and mixed use condominium projects, as well as environmental transactions, ranging from conservation easements and charitable donations, to sustainable forest management and carbon offset credits.
Recognition & Rankings
- Fellow and Michigan State Chair of the American College of Mortgage Attorneys
- Received the 2001 Commitment to Justice Award from InMotion while practicing in New York. InMotion is a pro bono organization serving the needs of domestic violence victims and low income women.
Professional Activities
- State Bar of Michigan (Real Property Law Section, Council Member 2011 - present; Environmental and Energy Law Committee, Co-Chair, 2007- 2011)
- State Bar of New York
- Grand Rapids Bar Association (Real Estate Section, Secretary and Treasurer, 2010 - 2012, Vice President 2012 - present)
Community Activities
- Habitat for Humanity: Family Services Committee for Home Ownership Program, Board Member, 2010 - present
- West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: Board Member and Membership Committee Chair, 2011
- Inforum - Professional Women’s Alliance
- Varnum’s Diversity Committee and liaison to Hispanic law student groups
Education
-
University of Michigan Law School
Ann Arbor, Michigan
J.D., 1998 -
Dartmouth College
Hanover, New Hampshire
B.A., Japanese, 1995