Christopher D. Matthysse

Associate

Chris focuses his practice in the areas of estate planning, probate, trust administration, real estate and business since 1999. He has substantial experience working with clients, including high net worth individuals, in the most efficient ways to pass on their property following death, gifting property during lifetime to avoid federal gift tax, planning to avoid or lessen federal estate taxes, passing on the family business and avoiding pitfalls with an aging parent or relative.

He first joined KGV in 2000 following graduation magna cum laude from Michigan State University College of Law. After seven years with the firm, he left and went on to become a shareholder and member at two large Grand Rapids law firms, including being elected chair of the estate planning department at one. Seeing the ever increasing and excessive rates charged by large law firms along with a lack of commitment to the estate planning practice, he returned home to KGV in 2025.

He have served on many boards, including Sunset Retirement Communities, and committees during his journey. He’s been recognized by the magazines SuperLawyers and Best Lawyers in America. The honor that means the most to him is his recognition by Grand Rapids Magazine in its Top Lawyers editions because the magazine is local and part of the community.