• Home
  • About
    ▼
    • About Laurie Schmitt
    • Honors and Awards
    • Inspirational Quotes
  • Divorce
    ▼
    • Uncontested Divorce
    • Collaborative Divorce
    • Mediation
    • Spousal Support
    • Spousal Support Modification
    • Annulments
    • Separate Maintenance
    • Alternative Divorce Options
  • Family Law
    ▼
    • Limited Scope Services
    • Child Custody
    • Change of Domicile
    • Post-Judgement Modification
    • Enforcement of Court Orders
    • Child Support
  • Paternity
    ▼
    • Affidavit of Parentage
    • The Michigan Paternity Act
    • How Does A Paternity Case Work
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Laurie Schmitt Family Law

W. Michigan family law specializing in Collaborative Divorce

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter

616.608.4634

  • Home
  • About
    • About Laurie Schmitt
    • Honors and Awards
    • Inspirational Quotes
  • Divorce
    • Uncontested Divorce
    • Collaborative Divorce
    • Mediation
    • Spousal Support
    • Spousal Support Modification
    • Annulments
    • Separate Maintenance
    • Alternative Divorce Options
  • Family Law
    • Limited Scope Services
    • Child Custody
    • Change of Domicile
    • Post-Judgement Modification
    • Enforcement of Court Orders
    • Child Support
  • Paternity
    • Affidavit of Parentage
    • The Michigan Paternity Act
    • How Does A Paternity Case Work
  • Blog
  • Contact

Laurie Schmitt

What’s The Point of a Collaborative Divorce? What Should You Expect?

July 17, 2023 By Laurie Schmitt

If you are contemplating a divorce, you may want to consider the collaborative process as an option to the traditional litigated divorce. So, what is the point of a collaborative divorce, and what should you expect through the collaborative process? The following are a few of the reasons to consider the collaborative process for your divorce.

OPEN DISCUSSIONS: You and your spouse are free to discuss what’s important to you, or what your concerns are. There is no wrong or right, no win or lose, and no issue that it too big or small to discuss at the collaborative table.

GOOD FAITH NEGOTIATIONS: The collaborative process is based on working in good faith. You and your spouse should come to the table with the expectation that you will resolve your issues in a cooperative mind frame, not in a litigious mind frame.

Collaborative Divorce

TEAM APPROACH: The collaborative process is a team approach, which leads to you and your spouse having a better outcome in your case and better long-term satisfaction with that the outcome. 

CREATIVITY: Through the collaborative process, you, your spouse and your respective attorneys may think outside of the box to reach a tailored resolution that makes sense for the you, your spouse, and your children.

INFORMATION SHARING: You and your spouse should be committed to transparency. This means you both will share the necessary financial information freely in an effort to obtain a fair and equitable agreement. The adversarial nature of litigation does not lead to good information sharing between parties in the discovery process.

FOCUS ON RESOLUTION: The difference in the collaborative process versus litigation is to focus on a positive outcome, not on litigation and who will win.

CONFIDENTIALITY: Through the collaborative process, you will keep your private life private. The collaborative process and all information shared at the table remains confidential. Therefore, you protect your private information, thereby protecting your privacy.

CONTROL THE OUTCOME OF YOUR DIVORCE:  Are you willing to gamble on what the judge may decide?  Through the collaborative process, you and your spouse have total control of the outcome of your divorce.

CONTROL YOUR FUTURE: Why leave your future in the hands of a judge who doesn’t know your family and their needs. Once again, the collaborative process will provide you and your spouse the freedom to control the outcome and thereby controlling your future.

AVOID COURT:  The court system is less than ideal. You and your spouse may grow frustrated with procedures and processes of litigation, and may not be satisfied with a judge’s decision regarding your divorce. Through the collaborative process you and your spouse will avoid fighting in open court, as all discussions, negotiations, and agreements are made at the collaborative table. 

COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE: FOCUS ON WHAT’S IMPORTANT TO YOUR FAMILY. GRAND RAPIDS COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE ATTORNEY SERVING KENT, OTTAWA, AND ALLEGAN COUNTY.

Divorce is a painful and emotionally stressful time for everyone. That’s why more couples are turning to a gentler solution: the collaborative divorce process.  A highly trained team of professionals work together with you to develop a fair, open and child centered resolution. If you want to avoid going to court, reach your own agreement, and promote positive co-parenting post-divorce, the collaborative divorce process may be an alternative for you. To find out more about the collaborative process, and to discuss if the collaborative process is right for you, contact Laurie online or by calling (616) 608-4634 to schedule a consultation. Our office is located at 401 Hall Street SW, Suite 112D, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

Filed Under: Collaborative Divorce Tagged With: Collaborative Divorce

Can I Move With The Children After The Divorce?

July 10, 2023 By Laurie Schmitt

Are you contemplating moving out of town or out of state with your child?  Will this move be more than 100 miles from the child’s current legal residence?  Has the court awarded you joint legal custody or sole legal custody?

THE 100 MILE RULE

Before you decide to move with your child, you should review your court order. Did it grant both of you joint legal custody of the minor child?  If so, you will be unable to move with the child more than 100 miles from the child’s current legal residence without consent of the other parent or permission from the court. The child’s legal residence is where each the parties lived on the day your judgment of divorce was signed by the judge. 

EXCEPTION TO THE 100 MILE RULE

move with children

Did your court order grant you sole legal custody of the minor child?  If so, this is the exception to the 100 Mile Rule. If you have sole legal custody, you will not have to seek the consent of the other parent, or the permission of the court if you want to move more than 100 miles from the child’s legal residence.    

SEEKING AN ORDER FROM THE COURT

You have joint legal custody of the minor child, and the other parent will not consent. You’ll need to pursue your request for a change of domicile through the court. The court will review the factors found in MCL 722.31 to determine if they will grant your request for a change of domicile. 

WHAT THE COURT REVIEWS TO ALLOW A MOVE

MCL 722.31 Factors:

(a) Whether the legal residence change has the capacity to improve the quality of life for both the child and the relocating parent.

(b) The degree to which each parent has complied with, and utilized his or her time under, a court order governing parenting time with the child, and whether the parent’s plan to change the child’s legal residence is inspired by that parent’s desire to defeat or frustrate the parenting time schedule.

(c) The degree to which the court is satisfied that, if the court permits the legal residence change, it is possible to order a modification of the parenting time schedule and other arrangements governing the child’s schedule in a manner that can provide an adequate basis for preserving and fostering the parental relationship between the child and each parent; and whether each parent is likely to comply with the modification.

(d) The extent to which the parent opposing the legal residence change is motivated by a desire to secure a financial advantage with respect to a support obligation.

APPLICATION OF THE FACTORS

When applying these factors, the court’s main focus is whether the move will improve the quality of life for both the child and the relocating parent, not just the parent. The focus must remain on the child. Courts want to hear about quality-of-life issues such as:

  • The quality of the schools in the proposed location. The court will determine if the school is comparable to the child’s current school. 
  • The availability of extra-curricular activities. If the child is currently involved in extra-curricular activities, what is the availability of similar activities for the child in the proposed location. 
  • The presence of extended family in the current location verses the proposed location. 
  • Any other factors that provide the court with specifics of how this move will enhance the child’s life.

SEEK A QUALIFIED ATTORNEY

Because of the complexity of a change of domicile case, it can be difficult to represent yourself. And, you can expect that the results for a change of domicile case will vary significantly from court to court, as courts interpret the standards for a change of domicile very differently.  If you are thinking about relocating with your children, contact Schmitt Law, PLLC to discuss your options.   

AN ATTORNEY WHO UNDERSTANDS YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES.  GRAND RAPIDS COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE ATTORNEY SERVING KENT, OTTAWA, AND ALLEGAN COUNTY.

At Schmitt Law, PLLC, our clients benefit from years of experience.  We treat every client as an individual, taking the time to understand your unique situation, so as to best advise you on the steps you should take. Whatever stage your life is at, you can trust Schmitt Law, PLLC to guide you through the legal process with expertise and compassion, because we understand that family comes first. Contact Schmitt Law, PLLC today by completing our online contact form, or calling us at (616) 608-4634 to schedule a consultation.

Filed Under: Issues Concerning Children Tagged With: Children, Collaborative Divorce

Do You Need To Protect Your Rights As A Parent?

June 29, 2023 By Laurie Schmitt

HELP!  I just want to see my kids a be a significant part of their lives without interference from the other parent.

You just want to be a parent to your children.  However, the other parent does everything they can think of to make your live miserable.  It’s as if they just want you to walk away, throw in the towel, and say I won’t see my children any more. 

Protect Parent Rights
  • Do you have a current parenting time order that the other parent continually violates? 
  • Are you constantly going back and forth with the other parent fighting to exercise your court ordered parenting time? 
  • Does the other parent schedule activities for the children on your parenting time? 
  • Does the other parent refuse to meet you at exchanges, or are they constantly late? 
  • Does the other parent try and control every aspect of the children’s lives, including what takes place in your household? 
  • Does the other parent attempt to micromanage the decisions you make during your parenting time (what the children will wear, eat, and what activities they will participate in)?
  • Does the other parent attempt to cut you out of the children’s lives? 
  • Does the other parent fail to keep you informed about medical information as it relates to the children?
  • Does the other parent fail to keep you informed about school related issues and activities?
  • Does the other parent make unilateral decisions regarding the children that fall under your joint legal status?
  • Does the other parent make their own rules, contrary to the court order?
  • Do you feel that no matter what decisions you make regarding the children, the other parent believes it is not good enough?
  • Does the other parent disparage you, your significant other, or your family in front and/or directly to the children?
  • Does the other parent interfere with your holiday parenting time?
  • Does the other parent dictate the terms of every facet of the children’s lives, without considering your impute? 

Are you tired of the stress and anxiety you expend trying to gain rightful access to the children? Do you feel that you get no respect as the children’s parent?  Frequently, parents contact Schmitt Law, PLLC frustrated that they are not being allowed to exercise their rights as a parent, or that they could not come to an agreeable parenting time arrangement with the other parent. If you are experiencing issues in your relationship with the other parent, contact Schmitt Law, PLLC to discuss your rights and options as a parent.

CHILDREN ARE FIRST.  GRAND RAPIDS COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE ATTORNEY SERVING KENT, OTTAWA, AND ALLEGAN COUNTY.

At Schmitt Law, PLLC we understand that the interests of your children always come first.  Whatever your situation, Schmitt Law, PLLC is experienced, sympathetic, and willing to help you achieve the best outcome for your entire family. Contact Schmitt Law, PLLC today by completing our online contact form, or calling us at (616) 608-4634 to schedule a consultation. Our office is located at 401 Hall Street SW, Suite 112D, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

Filed Under: Divorce, Issues Concerning Children Tagged With: Children, Collaborative Divorce, Custody

What Types of Cases Does Schmitt Law, PLLC Accept?

June 26, 2023 By Laurie Schmitt

Schmitt Law, PLLC primarily handles family law cases. Family law is a broad, general term referring to many different family matters. As there are many different types of cases that are included under the category of family law, the following are the family law matters Schmitt Law, PLLC accepts.   

FAMILY LAW CASES THAT SCHMITT LAW, PLLC ACCEPTS

DIVORCE (Uncontested, contested, and collaborative cases)

We all know that divorce is the legal termination of a marriage. And divorce cases can be quick and simple – or they can be long and drawn out. Factors such as whether there are minor children, significant assets or debt, or a family business can impact the complexity of the case.

Having an attorney skilled in handling divorce cases will ensures that you are getting the best outcome. Whether it is determining custody of the kids or who gets the house – Schmitt Law, PLLC will help you get your fair share of your marital assets.

SEPARATE MAINTENANCE

Divorce Cases

Legal separations do not dissolve a marriage. Instead, they keep the marriage intact for the most part while putting formal documents in place stating that the couple is legally separated. They are still technically married, but living separately. This can give the couple time to see if they really want to stay married or get divorced. After all, legal separations can be reversed but a divorce cannot.

CUSTODY (Uncontested and contested)

Child custody cases determine the physical and legal custody of a minor child, and can be in the context of a divorce or between two parents where not married to each other. In any custody case, there are many factors to consider to resolve these cases. Schmitt Law, PLLC will always keep the best interest of you and your children at the forefront during your case.

PATERNITY

Paternity simply means a case wherein the court must make a determination of a child’s legal father. Schmitt Law, PLLC accepts paternity cases whether they are contested or uncontested.  As the father of a child born outside of a marriage, it is critical to take action immediately.  Each passing day means you and your child will not receive time together to establish an important parent-child bond. As the mother of a child born outside of marriage, each passing day means you and your child will not receive the financial support you deserve. Call Schmitt Law, PLLC to discuss your rights.

CHILD SUPPORT

Child support must be determined in any divorce, custody, or paternity case. Therefore, Schmitt Law, PLLC accepts cases wherein child support must be established through one of these types of cases.  

DEFENSE OF PERSONAL PROTECTION ORDERS

If you’ve been served with a personal protection order, Schmitt Law, PLLC will assist in your defense. Personal protection orders are quasi criminal. This means if you are found in violation of the personal protection order, you can go to jail. Also, if you have a personal protection order against you, you will not be able to possess/carry a firearm. And finally, personal protection orders can negatively impact your employment status. Contact Schmitt Law, PLLC to discuss your options.

FAMILY LAW CASES THAT SCHMITT LAW, PLLC DOES NOT ACCEPT

Guardianship, CPS cases, termination of parental rights

THE IMPORTANCE OF AN ATTORNEY

When it comes to your family law case, make sure you understand your rights.  And if you are facing a contested situation, don’t go it alone.  Don’t leave your future with your family to chance. Contact Schmitt Law, PLLC to protect your future with your family.

LEGAL REPRESENTATION AND SUPPORT.  GRAND RAPIDS COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE ATTORNEY SERVING KENT, OTTAWA, AND ALLEGAN COUNTY.

Laurie Schmitt of Schmitt Law, PLLC is responsive to the fact that family issues are both complex and emotionally taxing. That is why I strive to guide my clients through the process as effectively and efficiently as possible while also minimizing the emotional toll on my clients.

To schedule a consultation or learn more about our services, contact Schmitt Law, PLLC online or call (616) 608-4634. Our office is located at 401 Hall Street SW, Suite 112D, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

Filed Under: Collaborative Divorce Tagged With: Collaborative Divorce, Divorce, Family Law, Mediation

Tips To Successfully Mediate Parenting Time

June 23, 2023 By Laurie Schmitt

You’re scheduled for mediation, and one of the issues to be discussed will be parenting time. The following tips will help you successfully mediate a parenting time schedule that will be fair, balanced, and enforceable.

KNOW THE BASICS 

Prior to mediation your attorney should explain what legal and physical custody really means so you are prepared to make an agreement at mediation. You should also discuss the importance of having an order for parenting time.

AGREEMENTS ARE BINDING

Golden Rule: If you sign it, it’s binding.

Before entering into a mediation agreement, it’s important to understand that if you sign the agreement, it becomes a contract that is enforceable by the court. There is no buyer’s remorse later. So, fully understand the terms of the agreement before you sign your name.

MEDIATION PROCESS

Parenting Time

The mediator may control the process, but you and the other parent exclusively control whether you come to agreement regarding parenting time. And if you’re going to have a successful mediation, you must be willing to listen to the mediator and the other parent, do not interrupt anyone, and avoid making derogatory comments that may inflame the other parent. Respect is key during mediation.

GETTING READY

Gather important information such as work schedules and a calendar of what parenting time you have exercised since the divorce filing. Also have a list of points or concerns you want to raise during mediation. This may include the other parent’s new relationship or living situation, or how active the other parent has been in raising the children.

YOUR CHILDREN’S SPECIFIC NEEDS 

During mediation it’s your responsibility to make sure the mediator knows the ages of your children and any special physical, social, and emotional needs each of your children may have.  This will assist the mediator in helping you develop a parenting time schedule that takes into consideration the needs of your children.

MAKE YOUR PARENTING PLAN REALISTIC  

When you attend mediation, make sure you are negotiating for a parenting plan that is realistic – one in which each parent can uphold their end of the agreement. As an example, don’t select pick up and drop off times during the other parent’s work day. You know they can’t follow through with it, so why make the agreement? Make sure your agreement makes sense and is realistic for both of you.

MAKE YOUR PARENTING PLAN ENFORCEABLE

Golden Rule: If the judge can’t enforce it, it doesn’t make any sense to include it. 

Don’t put language in your agreement that can’t be enforced by the judge. What’s the point?  It may make you or the other parent feel better. Your parenting time agreement should be specific.  In the event the judge needs to enforce your agreement, it needs to be clear to the judge what you intended. If you only state that parenting time shall be agreed upon by the parties, it would not be enforceable. Language that is specific will reduce confusion, as each party understands their rights and responsibilities.  And clear language is much more enforceable if the need for court enforcement arises. 

WHAT YOUR AGREEMENT SHOULD INCLUDE

Make sure to include a designation of legal and physical custody, and a clearly defined parenting time schedule. The parenting time schedule should address if the parties are going to exercise the same schedule year around, or if it will be different during the school year versus the summer break. Your agreement should also address how you will communicate with the other parent: email, text, or an app designed for communication between parents. 

BE PREPARED TO MAKE CONCESSIONS

Mediation is about negotiation.  Do not go into mediation thinking you will receive everything you want. Be prepared to listen to the other parent, make concessions, so that you can reach an agreement that is fair and equitable for both of you. And before you enter into mediation, know what terms you are firm on and what you are flexible on so it can be communicated to the mediator. 

LET ME WORRY ABOUT WHAT MATTERS MOST … YOUR FAMILY.  GRAND RAPIDS COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE ATTORNEY SERVING KENT, OTTAWA, AND ALLEGAN COUNTY.

The hallmark of my family law practice is providing you with top quality legal service by being intensely responsive to my clients. I will work hard to protect your rights to your children by helping you to secure the best possible outcome to complex legal situations and giving you your strongest voice in the family law process.

To schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services, contact Schmitt Law, PLLC online or call (616) 608-4634. Our office is located at 401 Hall Street SW, Suite 112D, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

Filed Under: Issues Concerning Children Tagged With: Children, Collaborative Divorce

What Is An Uncontested Divorce? Here Is Everything You Need To Know

June 19, 2023 By Laurie Schmitt

You and your spouse have agreed to file for a divorce. You both agree you don’t want to have a war in the court – and that you want to end your marriage in peace. You both may have heard the term “uncontested divorce” but are unsure what that means, or if it is right for you.

WHAT IS AN “UNCONTESTED DIVORCE”? 

An uncontested divorce is one in which you and your spouse have resolved all of the issues in your divorce, and there is no need for court intervention. This means that you and your spouse have agreed to all terms that will be contained in your Judgment of Divorce such as custody, parenting time, division of assets and debts, division of real and personal property and any other issue with respect to dissolving your marriage. 

WHAT TERMS OF OUR DIVORCE DO WE NEED TO AGREE ON? 

Uncontested Divorce

Parties must agree on how to divide all of the assets, debts, and retirement accounts. They must agree as to who will retain the house, and how much the other spouse will receive for their share of the equity. If the parties agree that the house is to be sold, they must agree on a realtor, sale date, list price, and how the proceeds from the sale of the home will be divided. Parties must also agree as to division of their personal property, to include all motorized vehicles, boats, campers, and pets. Parties must also have an agreement as to spousal support – will it be paid, amount, and duration. If there are children of the marriage, the parties must agree on custody, parenting time, holiday parenting time, child support, where the children will attend school, and any other issues specific to their children. 

IS AN UNCONTESTED DIVORCE A GOOD FIT FOR YOU AND YOUR SPOUSE?

An “uncontested divorce” would not be an appropriate process for you if you believe your spouse is hiding assets or income, if you and/or your spouse are unwilling to voluntarily disclose assets or income, or if you and your spouse are unable to agree on how to resolve all of the issues in your case. An uncontested divorce would be a poor choice for cases such as these.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF AN UNCONTESTED DIVORCE:

SAVES YOU TIME

An uncontested divorce can take much less time to complete than a contused divorce. When a divorce is contested, you’re required to involve the court to reach a final outcome. When you and your spouse fight over issues it can take months to obtain a trial date and complete your divorce.  Uncontested divorces can be completed quickly, usually no longer than the statutory wait period. 

SAVES YOU MONEY

An uncontested divorce is much less expensive that a contested divorce in that it will save you in attorney’s fees. By reaching an agreement to the terms of your divorce, you will prevent the need for unnecessary attorney’s fees. 

SAVES YOUR EMOTIONS

Getting a divorce is difficult enough. However, when you’re unable to reach an agreement, and require the court to intervene, it causes even more emotional devastation. An uncontested divorce gives you and your spouse the opportunity to start your new lives without destroying the other, and preserving enough of a relationship to co-parent. 

CONTACT AN EXPERIENCED DIVORCE ATTORNEY IN GRAND RAPIDS, MI

An uncontested divorce can save you and your spouse a significant amount of time, money, and stress.  If you would like to learn more about the uncontested divorce process, and whether an uncontested divorce is right for you, contact Schmitt Law, PLLC.  I will meet with you to discuss how you can complete your divorce without the “war”.  Our office is located at 401 Hall Street SW, Suite 112D, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Please contact Laurie at Schmitt Law, PLLC online or by calling (616) 608-4634 for a consultation today. 

Filed Under: Collaborative Divorce Tagged With: Collaborative Divorce, Mediation

Will Your Job Stop You From Getting 50/50 Parenting Time?

June 15, 2023 By Laurie Schmitt

You’re getting a divorce. You come to Schmitt Law, PLLC for a consultation. The first issue you discuss is parenting time. And the first thing you state is that you want a 50/50 parenting time schedule.  The next question to you is what are your hours of employment and what days do you work?  You state you work either long hours each day, 7 days a week, varied hours, third shift, or start at 5:00 in the morning.

The best time to find out you have an obstacle to obtaining a 50/50 parenting time schedule is at the start of your divorce. Consider this your transition period. When you are married, you each take on specific roles at the house and with your children. Now that you will be single, you need to be honest with yourself and take a look at the reality of your request for a 50/50 parenting time schedule.  Are your hours of employment compatible with exercising a 50/50 parenting time schedule? If not, what do you do now?

job and parenting

While you are just the beginning of your divorce, now is the time to review if your employment will conflict with your end goal of 50/50 parenting time schedule. If you really want to exercise a 50/50 parenting time schedule, you need to ask yourself what changes you are willing to make to be awarded a 50/50 parenting time schedule. Now is the time to look at your options and see what you can do to accommodate at 50/50 parenting time schedule. Ask yourself:

  • Will your employer allow you to move to another shift?
  • Can you make yourself available to get your children to and from school?
  • Or, what arrangements can you make to ensure your children will get to and from school when you are at work?
  • Can you move your days around at work to make yourself available to your children?
  • Should you look for another job?

The biggest question to ask yourself is are you able to be home in the evening to take care of your children – to feed them, do homework with them, and get them ready for bed?  If not, it is not likely you will be granted a 50/50 parenting time schedule.

However, you have time to review your options and make adjustments to your employment so that you are able to take care of your children and obtain your goal of the 50/50 parenting time schedule.

CONTACT SCHMITT LAW, PLLC FOR LEGAL ADVICE ON CUSTODY.  GRAND RAPIDS FAMILY LAW ATTORNEY SERVING KENT, OTTAWA, AND ALLEGAN COUNTY.

Custody is a sensitive topic in divorce cases. Child custody mediation will put your child first and set you up for a healthy co-parenting relationship. With an experienced attorney and mediator like Laurie Schmitt, you will be able to navigate your new family dynamic with clear understanding and communication. Looking for a professional and experienced family law attorney, contact us online or give us a call at (616) 608-4634. Our office is located at 401 Hall Street SW, Suite 112D, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. At Schmitt Law, PLLC our commitment is to you!

Filed Under: Issues Concerning Children, Other Family Law Issues Tagged With: Children, Custody, Family Law

Divorce Is Not The End Of The World

June 12, 2023 By Laurie Schmitt

It’s very difficult to accept a failing marriage. You wanted your relationship to work. You put your all into it. And you really don’t want a divorce. But deep down you realize even with all of your efforts and sacrifices, your relationship is no longer healthy or positive for either of you.  And you have accepted that divorce is the best option. But it still feels like your divorce will be the end of the world.  But it won’t be, and here’s why.

FRESH START

You and your spouse worked hard to build your life together – creating a lifestyle that suited your marriage.  And now you feel you are losing everything and will need to start again.  However, you have a chance at a fresh start: preserve the habits, hobbies, and lifestyle you want.  You can keep what suits you, and even look for new and exciting choices such as new hobbies, traveling, or redecorating. And you may feel free to let go of those habits, hobbies and lifestyle that no longer work for you. 

HAPPIER YOU

Not the end of the world

Your life no longer has to focus on the day-to-day challenges you faced while you were married.  You no longer have to find reasons to stay late at the office, and dread going home. You now have total control…and are free to pursue happiness. 


NEW OPPORTUNITIES

Your divorce opens up opportunities for you to make choices that perhaps your spouse was not in favor of during your marriage. It could be as simple as getting a new hairstyle, or a new hair color.  Or maybe you’ve always wanted to work out with a professional trainer, and your spouse thought that idea was stupid. Or maybe you want to eat better. It’s your world and you get to create it. This is your time to do all of the things you have always wanted to.

HAPPIER CHILDREN

Your divorce means that your children are no longer subjected to the day-today turbulence your marital home had. That means your children are no longer in the middle of your marital struggles and living in an unhappy home. You and your spouse may now provide your children with two positive and happy homes. 

FOCUS ON YOUR CHILDREN

Your divorce allows you to focus on your children. Perhaps you want to develop stronger relationships with your children.  Now that your focus is no longer on your marriage and/or divorce, you are free to have more meaningful time with your children. You can make your time with your children be everything you want it to be.

IN SUMMARY

Divorce is not the end of the world because it opens new pathways for you to go down. Explore those pathways and let your divorce be the start of your new life, a new beginning, and a fresh start.

HELPING PEOPLE START THE NEXT CHAPTER OF THEIR LIVES

GRAND RAPIDS COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE ATTORNEY SERVING KENT, OTTAWA, AND ALLEGAN COUNTY.

At Schmitt Law, PLLC, we understand that filing for divorce can be an emotional and confusing experience. That’s why we are committed to providing personalized service to each client we represent, and will be with you through this difficult journey. At Schmitt Law, PLLC we encourage clients to take a more collaborative approach to divorce that promotes positive communication and cooperation. Through mediation or the collaborative divorce process, Laurie guides her clients through amicable divorce settlements so they can move forward with their life.  To discuss your circumstances and legal options, contact Schmitt Law, PLLC at (616) 608-4634 to schedule a consultation. Or, contact us online to arrange a consultation. Our offices are located at 401 Hall Street SW, Suite 112D, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

Filed Under: Collaborative Divorce Tagged With: Collaborative Divorce

  • « Go to Previous Page
  • Page 1
  • Interim pages omitted …
  • Page 6
  • Page 7
  • Page 8
  • Page 9
  • Page 10
  • Interim pages omitted …
  • Page 29
  • Go to Next Page »

Primary Sidebar

Categories

    • How Can We Help?
      616.608.4634

    Footer

    • Facebook
    • LinkedIn
    • Twitter

    Laurie K. Schmitt
    Attorney, Mediator, and Collaborative Lawyer

    401 Hall Street SW
    Suite 112D
    Grand Rapids, MI 49503

    Phone: 616.608.4634

    Visa and MasterCard Accepted
    Laurie Schmitt of Schmitt Law, PLLC is a West Michigan family law attorney specializing in collaborative divorce as well as separation, divorce, child custody and support, paternity, and other family law litigation. She is licensed by Michigan State Bar and the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan, and has extensive advanced training in divorce mediation and collaborative divorce.

    Disclaimer

    Member in Good Standing - 2023 - Collaborative Practice Institute of Michigan

    Copyright © 2025 Laurie Schmitt Law, PLLC - All Rights Reserved.


    Home | About Laurie Schmitt | Honors and Awards | Divorce | Uncontested Divorce | Collaborative Divorce | Mediation | Spousal Support and Modification | Annulments | Separate Maintenance | Alternative Divorce Options | Family Law | Limited Scope Services | Child Custody | Change of Domicile | Post Judgement Modification | Enforcement of Court Orders | Child Support | Paternity | Affidavit of Parentage | The Michigan Paternity Act | How Does A Paternity Case Work | Blog | Contact