Caught a detail that ended up making all the difference.
There's a difference between lawyers who know how to look up the law, and those who know it off the top of their head. Whims is the latter. He instantly caught something that the other side I think was completely unaware of. It ended up giving us a ton of leverage in a very satisfactory settlement. I would recommend him to anyone, except someone who might use him against me! LOL.
I needed a lawyer to help me with an embezzlement charge and Mr. Whims was the best attorney to help me handle the case. He walked me thru the process and helped me get probation and eventual dismissal of charges there after. He was professional and worked on my behalf through the entire process.
My work with businesses includes transactional matters and litigation, along with counseling business clients and creating businesses to suit my clients' needs.
I am a licensed contractor and I have represented contractors and homeowners for years. I am the Past President of the Home Builders Association of the Grand Traverse Area (HBAGTA). I have tried a number of construction cases, all with excellent outcomes for my client(s).
I have tried approximately 150 criminal trials, including dozens of murders, drive-by shootings, armed robberies and other serious felonies. I started as a prosecutor in Orange County, California in 1988 and eventually began doing criminal defense work after years of intense trial work. I have handled literally thousands of criminal matters from murders to traffic tickets.
I handle family law, divorce and custody cases of all sizes. I just finished a multi-million dollar divorce and custody trial, with results that were very pleasing to my client and have handled many cases concerning both children and high-asset splits.
Litigation is a succinct way of describing cases that are either working up to trial or that actually go to trial. I mention this section because unlike many lawyers who say they try cases, I really do try cases and frequently in bunches
I am a dedicated husband and father. We live on a small farm where we raise livestock and crops.  We supply our own organic beef, chicken, lamb, turkey, pork, eggs, and milk, in addition to making things like bio-diesel and even our own soap.Â
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Our faith is important to us. Â Also, my entire family loves to hunt and fish, and we try to spend time pursuing these interests when not otherwise occupied with the farm, sports and the normal events of life.Â
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Caught a detail that ended up making all the difference.
There's a difference between lawyers who know how to look up the law, and those who know it off the top of their head. Whims is the latter. He instantly caught something that the other side I think was completely unaware of. It ended up giving us a ton of leverage in a very satisfactory settlement. I would recommend him to anyone, except someone who might use him against me! LOL.
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Posted by anonymous | December 7, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very helpful in my situation
I needed a lawyer to help me with an embezzlement charge and Mr. Whims was the best attorney to help me handle the case. He walked me thru the process and helped me get probation and eventual dismissal of charges there after. He was professional and worked on my behalf through the entire process.
Posted by anonymous | July 16, 2013
OWI Assistance
I made the unfortunate decision to drive after drinking. I was charged with OWI with high BAC. (.19, and .17) After talking with several attorneys in the area, I made the decision to hire Robert. Robert took the time to get to know my personal accomplishments and not just the crime I committed. Because of his commitment and professionalism, my charge was immediately reduced. In addition, at my sentencing I was given non-reporting probation, and a 4 hour highway safety course. When I first contacted Robert I was facing a car installed breathylizer, possible jail, reporting probation, and community service.
Robert also has the respect of the courts. Regardless of how many people filled the court room, Robert was always the first case the judge called. The judge made personal recognition of Robert, which put me at great ease.
He is a family man, but also respected professional. He is involved in his community, and it is obvious everyone that works with him (judge, court employees, probation officers) has great respect for him and find him trustworthy.
I would recommend Robert to anyone looking for an attorney with a wealth of knowledge and who can guide you through a difficult situation!
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Posted by anonymous | September 24, 2012
Robert Whims
After 30+ years of marriage, my former spouse filed for divorce. Mr. Whims had done some excellent work for me on a real estate transaction several years ago, so I called him for a recommendation. I was mildly surprised that he also handled divorce cases, but was very comfortable in retaining him to handle this situation as well. For me, it was an emotional roller coaster, and the entire process lasted for about 18 months. In every respect, I was satisfied with my interactions with him and the service that he provided. He never forgot the emotional toil that the process was having, but more importantly, he led me through the process with the right mix of tenacity and aggressiveness tempered with restraint when appropriate. He knew the attorneys and the judge assigned to my case, and when expert information was needed, he chose the right people. In the end, his approach preserved for me nearly a million dollars more of my assets than I had been initially willing to give up. He was usually very busy during the time that he worked for me, but he always answered my phone calls when he was in the office, and even called me on weekends from his cell phone when some issue "couldn't wait". His assistant was always available, and kept a very precise file system of the various motions and hearings that took place. Strange as it sounds, I was comforted by the fact that I couldn't always reach him immediately, knowing that other clients had also chosen him to represent them, and that he was in high demand.
Bottom line, I would have no hesitation in recommending him to a potential client who may need his expertise. His fees were in line with attorney fees for the area, and his itemized bills were very clear and understandable. If I need legal advice in the future, I would call him first, and be comfortable that, even if he wasn't able to handle my situation, he would provide an appropriate referral
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Posted by Law offices-Gary R. Bergstrom, PLC | June 24, 2010
Review from a Fellow Attorney
I have known attorney Rob Whims for a number of years now, since first meeting him when we had a difficult divorce case together shortly after Rob returned to Michigan from California. In California, he practiced as a District Attorney in Orange County representing the People of the State of California in very difficult, high profile cases prosecuting criminal Defendants.
In the 28 years I have been practicing law, Rob is clearly one of the best and brightest attorneys I have met. In each case in which Rob has been involved, he thoroughly knows the salient facts and demonstrates superior knowledge in all aspects of the case, including his application of the law to the relevant facts of each particular case. While a highly skilled Trial attorney who never balks at litigating a case or issue where and when appropriate, Rob is also an exceptional negotiator. He understands that settlement discussions, when appropriate, can often lead to a more expeditious and less costly resolution for his client while avoiding the acrimony and emotional expense associated with protracted litigation.
Beyond his technical knowledge and proficiency, Rob consistently demonstrates a genuine concern for each and every client, and sensitivity to the emotional impact the proceedings have upon his client.
Rob Whims is the consummate attorney, comprising the perfect blend of intellect, knowledge, experience, and genuine concern and compassion for his clients, and I highly recommend him for anyone seeking these outstanding traits in an attorney.
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Posted by Melanie | November 10, 2009
Excellent Representation!
I'm near completion with a divorce that has taken 15 months. Unfortunately I didn't find Robert until after I had already hired two different lawyers who steered me in the wrong direction, caused delays in my case, and were never available to me when I had questions or needed them. When I found Robert that all changed. Robert works longer hours than anybody I know. I could get in touch with Robert at any time I needed him. He acted like I was part of his family and he took my matters to heart and really went to bat for me. Robert is very knowledgeable, extremely hard working, trustworthy, loyal, great listener, and very compationate. After hiring Robert I could rest and feel at ease during the process of my divorce / child custody case. I never felt like I had to look over my shoulder to make sure that things were getting done in regards to my case. I would highly reccomend Robert to anybody who needs a strong, intelligent, hard working, trust worthy attorney that will go to bat for them.
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Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 14
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Mr. Whims is a true gentleman. I have had the pleasure of knowing Mr. whims for about six years. If ever I needed a lawyer for any matter Mr. Whims would my choice. He is an extremely gifted trial lawyer with a deep and abiding faith. If ever I have a question about a case Rob has always been willing to help. You could not choose a better lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"If I needed legal assistance of any kind in the Traverse City or surrounding areas, Robert Whims would certainly be my first call. Robert is no stranger to litigation, having been a former prosecutor in California, and he goes to battle for his clients and wins. Whether your needs are civil, ranging from divorce to business law, or you or a loved-one is charged with a crime, you can trust that Robert will fight for your interests and represent you well."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 21
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Attorney Whims is a leader and warrior in the courtroom. He is respected by the Bench and Bar throughout the State. I had a chance to work with him as co-counsel on a case, and was impressed with his skills and courtroom demeanor. If I were in trouble, Robert Whims would be my first call!"
Unknown Attorney | Mar 30
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Mr. Whims and I met each other as opposing counsel on a recent matter. I was extremely impressed with Mr. Whims' knowledge of the law and passion exhibited in the courtroom. Mr. Whims legal abilities are unparalleled, and can only be matched by his unwavering moral character. Mr. Whims is a top notch attorney, and I would feel extremely comfortable recommending his services to anyone in need of legal assistance."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"If you have been charged with a crime and are anywhere near the Traverse City area or surrounding areas, you should do yourself the favor of calling and consulting with Robert Whims. As a leading member of the Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan (CDAM) and the Michigan Association for Justice (MAJ), Robert Whims is no courtrooms and trials, where he has spent decades vigorously protecting the rights of his clients. You simply aren't going to find a guy who is going to take care of you better and protect your freedom and your future than Robert Whims."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Attorney Robert Whims through my memembersip with the Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan. Robert has vast amounts of experience as a prosecutor and a defense attorney; he is thoroughly comfortable in a Courtroom and is able to help anyone faced with a legal problem with confidence. I endorse him not only because I am sure of his abilities, but because I know he cares for his clents."
Education Attorney | Dec 25
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Robert is an excellent lawyer. He is very bright and works hard for a good result for his clients. I think very highly of Robert's abilities and his desire to get a good result for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have consulted with Mr. Whims on a number of cases. He has never failed to come up with a creative and effective solution to any issue I have presented him. The best endorsement any lawyer can offer is who is the person they would refer their most important client to. In Traverse City, there is simply no body else I would call."
Construction and development Attorney | Apr 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Robert Whims is a "Renaissance Man" of a lawyer. He is the rare lawyer that excels in a variety of fields of law. From construction law to family law to criminal defense, Rob is a leader in the field. Meeting Rob, it is easy to understand why- he embodies integrity and an extreme work ethic, and is one of the most accomplished trial lawyers in the state. He has the legal skills to succeed in the court room and the board room. Rob's well earned earned reputation for legal excellence makes him an ideal advocate for his clients. Other lawyers know, respect and trust Robert Whims.If he will accept your case, you will be well represented."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Rob Whims is a lawyers lawyer who is considered one of the great legal minds in Michigan jurisprudence. Rob's intensive legal knowledge spans from criminal defense to real estate to personal injury. Personally, I have sought Rob's advice on many of my cases, including the high profile Holbrook murder case. I know that my colleagues who practice in plaintiff personal injury routinely request Rob's advice and consultation as a leader in the field. In addition to his intelligence, another important part of Rob's character is that he is a proven legal warrior who is not afraid to take a case to trial, file cutting edge motions, or go the distance in the Michigan appellate courts. Putting all of that aside, Rob's best quality is his ability to understand people. He is a family man who cares deeply about his clients, whether they are charged criminally or have been seriously injured. The bottom line is that Rob is worth every penny and if you need legal help, you need to call Rob now!"