Chad Antuma is a strategic problem-solver who helps businesses navigate complex, high-risk legal challenges with clarity and confidence. His practice spans complex and commercial litigation, construction law, business law, and forestry and tree-industry matters.
A significant portion of Chad’s practice involves representing tree service companies, arborists, and forestry-related businesses nationwide. He advises clients on forestry and land-clearing contracts, emergency and pre-construction tree removal, and insurance claims. This work draws on his broader experience in insurance coverage, consumer protection matters, and risk management, as well as his familiarity with industry standards, including OSHA and ANSI.
Chad works closely with clients across industries to help them build strong, compliant, and sustainable operations. In addition to representing businesses in all matters, from employment litigation to underground line-strike damages, he frequently serves as outside general counsel, providing practical guidance on risk management, compliance, and strategic decision-making.
Chad, his wife Joy, and their son Benjamin live near Eastown in a classic 1890s Grand Rapids home. Chad and his family enjoy spending time together at downtown events, grilling with friends, and visiting family. When away from work, Chad enjoys playing guitar, shooting skeet, trap, and sporting clays, and bow hunting with his dad and brother.
“A lawyer’s role is more than just finding you a way to get paid. Yes, that’s part of it, but I aim to be an advisor who can guide you through any tough decision or legal challenge.”
Education
Grand Valley State University
Bachelor of Arts
Grand Rapids, MI
Michigan State University
College of Law
J.D., cum laude
East Lansing, MI
Bar Admissions
- Michigan
- Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), 2024-Current
- ArborFest Expo, 2024-Current
- State Bar of Michigan, Young Lawyers Council, Councilmember 2023-Current
- Grand Rapids Young Professionals, Executive Legal Council 2022-Current
- Grand Rapids Bar Association, Young Lawyers Section President, 2022
- Grand Rapids Bar Association, Foundation Committee Member, 2021-Current
- Legal Assistance Center, Program Assistant, 2015-2019
- Justice for Our Neighbors, 2019
- Ottawa County-Legal Self-Help Center, 2013-2015
- International Law Review, Senior Articles Editor 2017-2019
- 2025 Michigan Rising Star – Business Litigation, SuperLawyers Magazine
- 2025 Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America, Commercial Litigation & Healthcare Law
- 2024 Rising Star, Super Lawyers
- Three in Ten Award: Grand Rapids Bar Association
- 2023 Rising Star, Super Lawyers
- Ones to Watch 2023, Best Lawyers
- Deans List, Michigan State University College of Law, East Lansing, Michigan
Publications
- Storms, Saws, and Statutes: Michigan Tree Law on Timber Trespass and StormRemediation, State Bar of Michigan, November 10, 2025
Presentations
- CFMA 2023, Regional Conference, Mock Arbitration