a family man FROM THE START

My passion for family law was inspired by my own experiences of witnessing unhealthy relationships, and seeing families stay together “for the kids” — which only resulted in them displacing the negativity onto their children. Kiddos should never be forced to choose between parents, or have to grow up too soon. And, now I do everything in my power to make sure that it does not happen. 

I know from experience that even if the parent’s relationship is over, their bonds with their children need to be protected. And I am here to give a voice to every parent and child to make sure that their needs are heard so all parties can make a smooth transition forward. 

a career devoted to protecting families

With 15 years of experience focused on family law and over 3 years on the bench as a referee, I bring the greatest wealth of dedicated experience to this election. 

In my career so far, I’ve been trusted to co-author core legal publications used in family law today, and have been recognized for my integrity and dedication to protecting families and children.

AREAS OF
SPECIALTY

Custody • Child Support • Child Protective Proceedings • Juvenile Justice 
Divorce • Personal Protection Proceedings • Equity and Inclusion

Custody • Child Support • Child Protective Proceedings • Juvenile Justice • Divorce • Personal Protection Proceedings • Equity and Inclusion

EXPERIENCE

Attorney Referee, 17th Circuit Court, Grand Rapids, MI (January 2021 – Present) 

Senior Counsel, Warner Norcross & Judd, LLP, Grand Rapids, MI (April 2017 – November 2021) 

Attorney, Kulas Law Office, Grand Rapids, MI (November 2009 – April 2017) 

Publications:
Stay Home Stay Safe Order: Impact on Child Custody and Parenting Time Orders and Agreements, March 31, 2020

Chapter 28 of Michigan Family Law 8th Edition: Interstate and International Child Custody Issues

“LGBTQA Law,” Michigan Bar Journal, December 1, 2019

State Bar of Michigan Family Law Journal – State of the LGBTQA Legal World. (Co-Authored with Gregory Schrot, June 2017)

Stout Risius Ross – The Marriage Equality Movement after US v. Windsor: Resulting Litigation and Changes Across the Nation (Co-Authored with Richard Roane, Spring 2014)

State Bar of Michigan Family Law Journal – The Marriage Equality Movement after US v Windsor: considerations for Michigan. (Co-Authored with Richard Roane, January 2014)

Bar Admission: 
Michigan State Bar (November 2009 – present) 
Federal Court for the Western District of Michigan (November 2009 – present) 
United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit (December 2017 – present) 
Supreme Court of the United States of America (January 2019 – present) 

Honors and Awards:
Named as a 3-in-10 Award recipient by the Grand Rapids Bar Association, 2018 
Named as a Michigan Super Lawyer Rising Star, 2018-19 

Pro Bono Work:
YWCA – Assist victims of domestic violence with legal questions regarding family law, criminal law, and civil litigation. (November 2011- 2017)
Justice Foundation of West Michigan – performed three times in the “Just Lips” fundraiser.
Wish volunteer for Make-a-Wish Michigan
Board Member for the GR LGBTQ+ Healthcare Consortium
Former Board Member for Humane Society of West Michigan