Melissa B. Papke

Melissa B. Papke


Varnum LLP

Recognized since 2016

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Practice Areas

Commercial Finance Law

Real Estate Law

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Melissa leads the Real Estate Practice Team, and focuses her practice on corporate and real estate matters, with an emphasis on commercial sales, acquisitions, leasing, redevelopment, and construction law. She has extensive experience in structuring primary and replacement real estate financing with banks, private investors, and joint ventures, including mezzanine and other uniquely structured secured loan facilities. Melissa offers her clients significant experience in negotiating commercial and industrial design and construction contracts, and counsels her clients throughout the construction process. In addition, she has developed a broad range of knowledge 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.

Location
  • Bridgewater Place, Suite 1700
    333 Bridge Street, NW
    Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Education
  • Dartmouth College, BA, graduated 1995
Bar Admissions
  • Michigan, Real Property Law Section, Council Member, 2011 –; Environmental and Energy Law Committee, Co-Chair, 2007 ­–; Member, 2004 –
  • Michigan, Grand Rapids Bar Association Real Estate Section, President 2014 - 2015; Vice President 2012 - 2014; Secretary and Treasurer, 2010 - 2012; Member, 2004 –
  • Michigan, American College of Mortgage Attorneys: State Chair for Michigan, 2011 –,
  • Michigan, State Bar of Michigan, Admitted 2004
  • New York, New York State Bar, Admitted 1999
Affiliations
  • Habitat for Humanity: Family Services - Committee for Home Ownership Program, Board Member, 2010 - 2014
  • Inforum – Professional Women’s Alliance - Member
  • Varnum’s Diversity Committee - Liaison to to Hispanic law student groups
  • West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: - Board Member and Membership Committee Chair, 2011 - 2014

Varnum LLP
Headquarters: Grand Rapids, Michigan

97 The Best Lawyers in America® awards

20 Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America awards

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Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® 2025 for work in:
  • Commercial Finance Law
  • Real Estate Law
Awards:
  • Recognized by The Best Lawyers in America®, as Lawyer of the year, Real Estate Law, Grand Rapids, 2016
  • InMotion Commitment to Justice Award for pro bono representation
Additional Areas of Practice:
  • Construction Law

Publications

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