Pre-Divorce Planning
Knowledge is power.
Discussing issues prior to filing can help prepare you for the legal process of a divorce and strengthen you for what lies ahead.
A consultation prior to filing will identify goals for the duration of the divorce process, consider legal issues that may need to be addressed, grant clarity on the divorce process, provide insight into child support and options related to custody and parenting time.
Full Representation
Having an attorney representing you from the drafting and filing of initial documents to any final judgment/orders can help ease the stress that legal matters can produce. Having representation can help ensure that your rights are protected, that all issues relevant to your case are identified, that you present the best arguments possible for your position, that all orders and judgments are worded clearly and properly, that you have someone available who can answer questions and provide guidance, and ultimately make sure you never feel alone as you navigate the family court system.
Limited Scope Representation
Drafting and filing legal documents can be confusing for anyone
who is not familiar with the
legal system, and this can lead to stress and mistakes.
Michigan allows for limited scope representation, otherwise known as unbundling or a la carte services. Services can range from drafting documents for a client (ghostwriting), to appearing/participating in only certain parts of a client's case. This approach requires more work on your part but can be a more affordable option compared to full representation.
LGAL/GAL Appointment
In family law cases where the relationship between two parties is particularly acrimonious the appointment of Lawyer Guardian Ad Litem (LGAL) or Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) can be essential in helping the court determine what is in the best interests of the child/ren. The roll of a GAL is to protect the interests of a party in a legal proceeding who lacks capacity. In the context of family law these persons are the minor children involved in divorce or post-divorce issues. A GAL can be involved in custody and parenting time issues as well as other post judgment issues that may come up related to the children. Unlike the attorneys who represent each party in the case, the GAL's sole focus is what is in the best interests of the child/ren. The court may request that the GAL submit a report to the court assessing the well-being of the child and providing recommendations, additionally, the GAL is given the opportunity to speak to the court during proceedings with regards to what they believe is in the best interests of the child.
When getting appointed an LGAL/GAL it is important to have someone who will take the time to investigate the situation and gather the facts in order to make an informed recommendation. The LGAL/GAL should be willing to speak to the parties/parties' attorneys, the child/ren, and any other person that may have relevant information such as school staff, therapists, or medical professionals.
The combination of my legal education and my social work education focused on clinical practice and family systems has provided me with the appropriate knowledge and skills to be well qualified to make assessments and well-informed recommendations regarding issues that impact children involved in family law cases.