About Attorney Westerbeke
About
Attorney Bill Westerbeke combines his background as an accountant with a wide range of legal experience to provide his clients with a uniquely practical perspective. Mr. Westerbeke's primary focus is to help clients avoid probate, protect their assets, make informed health and elder care decisions, and provide for the security of their loved ones with a well-crafted estate plan. Mr. Westerbeke understands the importance of the peace of mind that comes from his holistic view of planning that addresses needs beyond those addressed by traditional estate planning. Mr. Westerbeke, an active member of his community, is well aware of the growing importance of estate planning, and dedicates himself to informing the public of the need for careful attention to their specific situations. He is a frequent speaker on a variety of estate planning topics and regularly presents educational seminars for public and private groups in the South and West Michigan areas.
Experience
Mr. Westerbeke is the Founder of Westerbeke Law Firm, with offices in Grand Rapids and St. Joseph. He is licensed to practice in Michigan and Illinois. Bill has experience with large public accounting firms, and law firms in Chicago, St. Joseph, and Grand Rapids. He is a member of the Health Law, Probate and Estate Planning, and Elder and Disability Rights Sections of the Michigan State Bar Association. Bill has served as the President of the Southwest Michigan Estate Planning Council and as Chair of the Exempt Organizations Subcommittee of the Chicago Bar Association.
Education
Mr. Westerbeke graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting. He was honored for academic excellence by induction into the Beta Alpha Psi fraternity. He went on to Valparaiso University School of Law to earn his Juris Doctor degree. While in law school, Mr. Westerbeke completed an externship with the Securities and Exchange Commission and served as a Note Editor for the Law Review. Bill actively participates in continuing education and has completed Michigan's Probate and Estate Planning Certification from the State Bar of Michigan and Institute of Continuing Legal Education.
Personal
A native of South and West Michigan (born in Grand Rapids and raised in Berrien County), Mr. Westerbeke lives with his family in Grand Rapids. Mr. Westerbeke spends a great deal of his free time with his family and enjoys serving his community. Bill counts among his favorite hobbies and interests swimming, cooking, photography, music and digital arts.
INTERESTING
Bill considers himself fortunate to have missed catching the Chicago Cubs' infamous "Bartman Ball" in 2003 by a mere 3 rows (a difficult moment for a Die Hard Cubs Fan).