Miller Johnson Changing family law
When someone mentions Family Law - the first things that come to mind are nasty divorces, custody battles, and horror stories. Miller Johnson and their Family Law group are trying to change that for West Michigan families—and it’s working. This group of seven dedicated attorneys works together in what could be considered a “boutique” firm within Miller Johnson. They range from lawyers with 30-plus years of experience to a young associate. Their common ground: “We’re committed to helping families keep their legal issues more private and less contentious,” said Mike Quinn, chair of the group. For six years the group has been seeking to resolve family issues before a visit to the courtroom becomes necessary. In divorce cases, Quinn said they often try to do “pre-divorce”
work so that couples have a clearer vision of what they are trying to attain in the divorce especially in regards to parenting time and the division of assets. The group also works on prenuptial agreements, domestic partnerships, and child custody. “A very small percent of our cases end up in trial,” Quinn said, instead finding success with collaboration, mediation, arbitration, and negotiated settlements— all with good results. The added benefit is that confidential information is treated privately and not part of the “public record.” While they came from diverse backgrounds, the attorneys in the Family Law group have all spent their careers practicing in West Michigan. They are committed to the community and think this approach reflects the area’s family-oriented culture.
While this unique perspective sets the group apart, it’s really the relationship-building skills that help this group achieve favorable results for clients. They can leverage relationships within Miller Johnson’s other groups such as tax and estate planning. Also, they are well networked with professional organizations and advisors including counselors and financial planners. It’s clear to see why they are invited to be members of distinguished groups like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and are honored by groups such as Best Lawyers. “Clients really appreciate our ability to handle matters in a more discreet and polite way,” Quinn concluded. “We like to think this puts them on the right footing to rebuild their lives.”
Michael B. Quinn quinnm@millerjohnson.com Joseph H. Doele doelej@millerjohnson.com Angel C. Dotson dotsona@millerjohnson.com W. Jack Keiser keiserj@millerjohnson.com Melissa Neckers neckersm@millerjohnson.com Julie A. Sullivan sullivanj@millerjohnson.com Connie R. Thacker thackerc@millerjohnson.com
30 49503 distinctively downtown 2013