Charles F. “Chip” Behler maintains a statewide practice, principally in the areas of construction law, governmental law, and commercial litigation. In addition, he serves as co-chairperson of the firm’s Real Estate Development, Construction and Governmental Practice Group and is the firm’s Client Services Partner.
Chip is a frequent lecturer and author on construction and governmental law issues. He is very active in his profession, industry, and community and has served as a member of numerous boards and committees of community, arts, and charitable organization.
A Grand Rapids native, Chip is the father of two adult sons, Chris and Andy. He is married to Stacie, the director of communications and government relations for a large regional retailer.
Admitted to Practice
- State Bar of Michigan, 1972
Education
- University of Denver (B.A., 1969; J.D., 1971)
Noteworthy
- AV Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
- Listed in “Michigan Super Lawyers”
- Listed in the “Best Lawyers in America” guide
Professional Affiliations
- American Bar Association (Member, Sections: Forum on Construction Industry; Litigation; Government and Public Sector Lawyers)
- State Bar of Michigan (Member, Sections on: Litigation; Negligence Law; Public Corporation Law; Law Practice Management. Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Character & Fitness, 1989-1991; Member, 1984-1991)
- Grand Rapids Bar Association (Member, Diversity Committee)
- American Arbitration Association's National Roster of Arbitrators and Mediators
- Defense Research Institute
- Michigan Defense Trial Counsel
- Board of Law Examiners, State of Michigan, 1995-2005
- Member, National Roster of Arbitrators and Mediators, American Arbitration Association
- Professional Affiliate, Michigan Society of Architects
- Associate Member, American Institute of Architects
- National Conference of Bar Examiners, 1995-2005
- Board of Advisors, Legal Studies Program, Grand Valley State University
Community Affiliations
- Member, Board of Directors, Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
- Member, Board of Directors, Blythefield Country Club
- Member, East Grand Rapids Recreation Commission
- Board Member and President, Grand Rapids Ballet
- Member, Grand Valley Blood Program Board of Trustees
- Chairperson, American Cancer Society, Kent County Chapter, Campaign Committee
- Member, Crime Prevention Committee, Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce
- Member, National Ski Patrol Systems, Inc., Outstanding Auxiliary Ski Patroller in United States
Previous Professional Experience
- Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Kent County, Michigan, 1972-1973
