Nathaniel James Kaleefey

PRO

Nathaniel James Kaleefey

5.0
Rating: 9.5

Licensed for 17 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at Grand Rapids, MI
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Child Custody, Family ... +4 more

40 Pearl St. NW, Ste. 1020, Grand Rapids, MI

Virtual Consultation Available

About Nathaniel

Biography

Providing trustworthy advice to people in West Michigan with family law cases and vigorously advocating on their behalf in court.

Providing trustworthy advice to people with family law cases and vigorously advocating on their behalf in court.

Providing trustworthy advice to people with family law cases and vigorously advocating on their behalf in court.

Providing trustworthy advice to people with family law cases and vigorously advocating on their behalf in court.

Practice Areas

7

Practice Areas

Divorce and Separation 55%

55%
Child Custody 20%

20%
Child Support 5%

5%
Domestic Violence 5%

5%
Family 5%

5%
Marriage and Prenuptials 5%

5%
Uncontested Divorce 5%

5%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2025 2024 2023
...
+ 8

Licenses

Licensed in Michigan for 17 years

State: Michigan

Acquired: 2008

Active in Good Standing

No misconduct found

Location

Verspoor Waalkes, PC

40 Pearl St. NW, Ste. 1020, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503

vwlst.com/about-vwlst-attorney-grand-rapids/nathaniel-kaleefey/

Nathaniel James Kaleefey's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

100 Client Reviews

Showing 26 - 30 of 30 reviews | Trustworthiness

Posted by David wolf | May 13, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Excellent

Nathaniel not only helped me with my court case but made it simple and easy and even was helpful with understanding my payments. There were numerous times I walked into the court waiting room and as I waited I wondered if he was running late. Five minutes later he would walk out of a room and say "al...right we already done for today, we got what we wanted." It was a great experience. Being only 22 and never been in any trouble, he made it easy and very mainstream. Nathaniel made my case and plea very simple, and exactly how I wanted. Without this council I probably would've lost my job. Thank you.

Posted by Laura | January 07, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Highly Recommended Attorney and Firm

I hired Nathaniel Kaleefey through Kaleefey, Attorney At Law, PLLC. Partway through my proceedings, he was hired into a firm, Verspoor Waalkes PC. The transition did not impact our agreement and everyone I interacted with at the firm was always pleasant and helpful. I appreciated having the extra res...ources beyond just my attorney. Nathaniel advised me through a very difficult period by representing me in my divorce. He helped me to understand a process that was new and very confusing. The legal system is not a quick or friendly experience. He was patient in explaining the delays and reassured me that he was doing everything he could to move things forward. At times, I was too emotional about the change that I was undergoing and did not thoroughly think through all of my actions or choices. Nathaniel always listened and helped guide me in the right direction, even when I was reluctant and frustrated. As with any divorce, compromises were necessary. Nathaniel kept my focus on the things that were most important to me. He helped me to understand that I needed to be flexible with others to secure them. At the time, I did not always understand why he didn't just agree with me, but now I recognize it was his job as my legal adviser to counsel me and he did that very well. Nathaniel was my advocate. He was diligent from start to finish in ensuring the decisions I made were well thought out, not reactive to the emotions of the situation, and in the best interests of me and my children long-term. In the end, I was very pleased with the judgement that we entered. If I need legal representation or advisement in the future, I will definitely be using his services. I highly recommend Nathaniel Kaleefey and his firm, Verspoor Waalkes PC, to anyone that needs legal services.

Posted by Robert | April 29, 2015 | Criminal Defense

An attorney you can trust.

Nathaniel Kaleefey is truly an attorney that you can trust. He is very caring and took my cases as seriously as if it was effecting his freedom and image. After needing Nathaniel's help for a few different situations I would never seek another attorneys assistance. One of the best traits that Nathani...el possesses that few other attorneys I have crossed paths with is that he actually listens to your ideas on how you would approach the situation and he will give you feedback on why that idea was good or how it may negatively effect you but he does not simply expect you to follow " his way or the highway". To me talking to Nathaniel was very easy and if he was busy and I had to leave a message I was contacted that same day even for the simplest inquiry or worry that I had. To further explain the reason that I only gave Nathaniel a 4/5 rating on knowledgeable is because I do not believe any attorney in any field knows everything about every field. However Nathaniel will put in the time to find the exact law and supporting evidence that is needed given a little time to do some research. He has been able to answer questions that involved criminal law, probate law, divorce rights etc. If Nathaniel cannot answer your question which only happened once where the situation was extremely confusing and complicated he will find the answer if given the time to research. Nathaniel makes time for his clients and rarely will cut anyone short because of other work he is involved in. If you need to contact him his line is always available and if you leave a message you will get a call back I guarantee that. Nathaniel's rates are also very competitive and as far as attorneys go he is an affordable option that actually gets positive results. I have never looked back at the work Nathaniel has done for me and thought "wow what a waste of money" but rather have thought " Wow how did I get so lucky to have found this gem". One day I was really overwhelmed by everything going on in my life and it did not relate to a case of mine or anything it was just a personal issue. I sought out Nathaniel and he actually took an hour out of his day to sit and talk me through the hard time and this was not anything that I was billed for he did it because he cared about me not only as a client of his but as a fellow human being who needed someone. Unfortunately I have had multiple attorneys in my life on different issues and none of them have taken away the worry of the case like Nathaniel, it just feels like you can trust that Nathaniel is going to do all he can to make it right. He always seems to have a special trick up his sleeve that comes in play at just the right time that no one sees coming and it seems to work basically every time at least in my experiences. If you are looking for an attorney that you can rest assured knowing that he cares, you can trust, who is honest, and does not have a greedy bone in his body then this is the attorney for you Nathaniel Kaleefey. I recommend Nathaniel to anyone in any sort of situation requiring an attorney's assistance or advice. Nathaniel has always been there for me no matter what and I know he would do the same for any other person he ends up representing. Get results, relieve your anxiety, let Nathaniel take the reins and get the buggy moving in the right direction.

Posted by Victor | March 04, 2015 | Child Custody

Great Attorney! Really cares about getting the job done!

I am very satisfied with the results that Nathaniel accomplished in my child custody/support case. His biggest concern was the welfare, love, and environmental stability of my daughter. He was very trustworthy and professional. He always kept me informed throughout the entire case. He was also extrem...ely knowledgeable in the matter of child custody/support. My daughter resides with me now. She receives the love and affection that every child deserves, and she is thriving in school. I highly recommend Nathaniel.

Posted by anonymous | May 31, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody

Do NOT recommend

First off, I reached out to Nathaniel Kaleefey during an extremely vulnerable time in great need of direction and assistance to fight for my kids. He responded almost immediately with confidence that he could help. Appointment was made to meet with him and without asking he sends in Barbara Tsaturova... as "his assistant" for the initial consultation. She was also very convincing and made multiple, what would later be, empty promises. We were told if we hired her she was cheaper and would be able to save us money. We discovered too late that was not accurate. We were charged for her time, time she consulted with Nathanial Kaleefey (both her time/rate plus Nathanial's time/rate), and their assistance's time. Additionally, she would draft a motion on our behalf, give us a court date and charge us for it. Then days before tell us she did not move forward for invalid reasons. This happened multiple times to the point my children were left out of major life events and unable to have a "Christmas morning" with my children since my ex wouldn't allow, hence the need for the unfiled motions, that should have been done. After an unsuccessful FOC evaluation, Barbara let me though, I was told it would cost another $20k to bring to trial. While preparing for trial, both Barbara and Nathanial insisted I just take the offer and walk without fighting for my children, seeing and knowing this was not in the best interest for my children. Nathanial even called me while I was on a field trip with my 9 year stepdaughter demanding I withdraw and take the offer, began shouting and belittling me for wanting to discuss with my wife. He later sent an email apologizing for his behavior. In fear of their lack of confidence and demands to withdraw from going to court, I took the offer fearful of losing even more time with my children and have already paid them $13,000. Shortly following, I contacted them to withdraw from them representing me and I was charged an additional $803. I would be happy to provide any documentation, emails to validate this review.

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Nathaniel James Kaleefey's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Nathaniel
Derek Jacques headshot
Derek Jacques

Family lawyer | Oct 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Nathaniel James Kaleefey is a great family law attorney. I had the distinct pleasure of seeing his legal expertise in action and I would not hesitate to recommend this lawyer to any client in need."

Justin Reed Wheeler headshot
Justin Wheeler

Family lawyer | Sep 18

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Nathaniel was always responsive and civil as opposing counsel. He drives a hard bargain and his clients should always trust he is doing everything he can to further their interest."

Justin H. Van Den Heuvel headshot
Justin Van Den Heuvel

Real estate lawyer | Feb 27

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Nathaniel is an aggressive attorney who is highly responsive and trustworthy because he keeps his word."

Howard G. Van Den Heuvel headshot
Howard Van Den Heuvel

Real estate lawyer | Feb 27

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Nathaniel is an honest and exceptional attorney. He works hard and drives a harder bargain."

Mark David Dodge headshot
Mark Dodge

Family lawyer | Feb 17

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have collaborated very closely with Nathaniel on several matters. He, and his firm's, expertise and work ethic impressed me enough that I now send friends/family/clients to him on Family Law needs. Highly recommended."

Timothy D. VandenBerg headshot
Timothy VandenBerg

Family lawyer | Jan 07

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"As opposing counsel, I would highly recommend the services of Mr. Kaleefey. He advocated zealously and effectively for his client while maintain a spirit of professionalism to Court and counsel."

Paul A. Ledford headshot
Paul Ledford

Litigation lawyer | Jul 22

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I assisted and advised Mr. Kaleefey in an FAA employment discrimination claim. Mr. Kaleefey proved himself both a competent and tough minded litigator, willing to push the advantage where it existed, and to admit to his client's legal challenges where they were found as well. I have known Mr. Kaleefey for a number of years and have come to respect his competency and professionalism such that I refer potential clients to him from time to time that lie outside my practice area without hesitation."

Michael Bruce Brown headshot
Michael Brown

Family lawyer | Jun 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Nathaniel since we were interns with the Wayne State University Free Legal Aid Clinic, and I have become reacquainted with his work since coming back to west Michigan. I have been fortunate to work together with Nathaniel on several criminal matters, and he is a source of knowledge in family law matters. Nathaniel possesses a rare mix of qualities that make him an excellent and trustworthy attorney. He is an aggressive and confident litigator driven by high ethical standards, superior intellect, and excellent organizational skills. I endorse Nathaniel not only for family law but also for criminal and employment law. Anyone faced with legal issues looking for a straight-shooting legal fighter should call him today."

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Justin Reed Wheeler headshot
Justin Wheeler

Business lawyer

Justin H. Van Den Heuvel headshot
Justin Van Den Heuvel

Litigation lawyer

Howard G. Van Den Heuvel headshot
Howard Van Den Heuvel

Real estate lawyer

Mark David Dodge headshot
Mark Dodge

Criminal defense lawyer

Michael Bruce Brown headshot
Michael Brown

Criminal defense lawyer

Paul A. Ledford headshot
Paul Ledford

Litigation lawyer

David Christian Hill headshot
David Hill

Real estate lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.5 (Superb)

Honors

2018

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2017

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2016

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2015

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2014

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2012

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

Work Experience

2018 - Present

Principal, Verspoor Waalkes PC

2015 - Present

Associate, Verspoor Waalkes, PC

2009 - 2015

Owner, Kaleefey, Attorney at Law, PLLC

2008 - 2009

Clerk, Federal District Court For The Western District Of Michigan

2007 - 2007

Clerk, Federal District Court, Eastern District of Michigan

Associations

2009 - Present

Grand Rapids Bar Association

Member

2008 - Present

State Bar of Michigan

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

Assault & Battery - Great Result

Success

Civil Infraction - Success

Success

See More Legal Cases

Education

2008

Wayne State University Law School

JD - Juris Doctor

2004

Calvin College

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2018

Counselor Round Table

Family Law

Publications

Languages

English

German

Avvo Rating

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Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution