Macomb County Divorce Mediation Lawyer
Most people facing divorce don’t want to end up in court. Going through a traditional courtroom divorce can be stressful, time-consuming and expensive. It also puts important life decisions such as custody, support and property division into the hands of a judge instead of your own.
Family law mediation in Michigan offers a better way. Mediation is a guided, out-of-court negotiation process led by a neutral third party called a mediator. This approach gives both spouses more control over the outcome and encourages cooperation instead of conflict.
Mediation often results in faster resolutions, lower legal fees and less disruption to family life. For all of these reasons, Michigan courts encourage parties that are divorcing to attempt to mediate their unresolved issues and potentially avoid going to trial.
How To Prepare For Family Law Mediation In Michigan
If you are headed into mediation in Michigan, there are several vital steps to take:
- Gather financial documents such as recent tax returns, pay stubs, bank account statements, mortgage details and records of debts and assets.
- Create a proposed parenting plan that outlines custody, visitation schedules, holidays, school routines and how decisions will be made.
- Identify your goals and priorities to know what you are willing to compromise on and what matters most in the outcome.
- Understand your legal rights and obligations under Michigan family law by speaking with your attorney beforehand.
- Practice communication and negotiation skills to stay calm, respectful and solution-focused during the sessions.
Taking these steps helps you approach mediation with a better chance of reaching a fair agreement.
What Is The Mediation Process?
Mediation in Michigan follows a structured process that includes:
- Initial meeting: The mediator explains their role and outlines the process.
- Issue identification: You and the other party list what needs to be resolved.
- Discussion and negotiation: This is the core of mediation, where solutions are explored.
- Agreement drafting: If you reach an agreement, the mediator helps put it in writing.
To better prepare for mediation, organize your documents, know your priorities and arrive with an open mindset. During sessions, speak clearly, stay respectful and focus on solutions, not past grievances.
What Is The Impact Of Mediation On Children?
One of the biggest benefits of mediation is how it can reduce the emotional strain on children. When parents avoid courtroom battles, kids are less likely to feel caught in the middle.
Mediation encourages cooperation, which sets the stage for healthier co-parenting relationships. Children adjust better and feel more secure during a family transition with less conflict.
How I Can Help: A Family Law Attorney And Mediator
If you are looking for a lawyer who will help you resolve family law cases like divorce and custody arrangements through a less confrontational way, I can help. I’m Jessica Lashier, a Clinton Township based family law attorney and the founder of Lashier Law, PLLC. I’m also a certified domestic relationship mediator through the Michigan State Court Administrative Office.
I understand that a high-conflict divorce places an enormous amount of stress on divorcing couples. It can also cause emotional trauma for children. Through mediation, I see people avoid or reduce that stress, and I help them pave their own way toward a post-divorce future.
What Issues Are Addressed In Mediation?
The mediation process can address any and all family law issues, including:
- Child custody/parenting plan
- Child support
- Distribution of marital assets
- Spousal support (alimony)
You can also pursue mediation for modifications of existing custody or alimony orders.
Learn More About My Mediation Services
Mediation is typically ordered by the Court a few months into the divorce process. If your case has been referred for mediation, I have experience helping litigants resolve their issues and avoid going to trial. Contact our office to schedule mediation by calling 586-219-1984 or emailing us the mediation order.

