Consultations and Scheduling

How much does a consultation cost?

Our consultations are offered for a flat fee. This includes a private meeting with an attorney who will review your concerns, explain your options, and outline possible next steps. If you want the current rate or are ready to schedule, you can ask any time.

What is included in a consultation?

You meet one-on-one with an experienced attorney to discuss your goals, understand the legal landscape, and identify the strategy that fits your situation. You will leave with practical guidance tailored to your case.

Can I meet by phone or Zoom?

Yes. We offer phone, Zoom, and in-office consultations so you can choose the format that works best for you.

What should I bring to a consultation?

Bring any documents that help explain your situation. For divorce matters, this usually includes your marriage date, information about children, property, debts, and any court papers you have received.
For bankruptcy matters, bring a list of debts, recent pay stubs, tax returns, and basic asset information.
You do not need to have everything perfect. The goal is simply to give your attorney a clear picture.

What if I cannot afford the full consultation fee?

If cost is a concern, let us know. Our staff can discuss available options.

How soon can I schedule?

Most appointments are available within a few days. Urgent matters can often be accommodated sooner.

Can you discuss divorce and bankruptcy in the same meeting?

Both areas can affect each other, especially when there are shared debts or business interests. Divorce consultations are handled by Garry. Bankruptcy consultations are handled by Steve, our bankruptcy attorney. If your situation touches both areas, we coordinate internally so you get complete guidance.

Will you run a credit check?

No. We do not run credit checks. All advice is based on the information you provide.

Divorce and Custody Services

Do you handle divorce cases?

Yes. We represent clients in all aspects of divorce, including custody, parenting time, child support, spousal support, property division, and preparation for contested hearings.

What is the difference between legal and physical custody?

Legal custody concerns decision-making for education, healthcare, and major issues. Physical custody concerns the child’s residence and day-to-day care. Michigan courts often award joint legal custody when parents can communicate and act in the child’s best interest.

Do you represent fathers?

Yes. Fathers receive the same legal rights as mothers in Michigan, and we regularly represent fathers seeking parenting time, joint custody, and fair treatment in court.

Can I receive or be ordered to pay spousal support?

Possibly. Michigan courts consider income, length of the marriage, health, contributions to the household, and earning capacity. A consultation is the best way to understand whether spousal support is likely in your situation.

Do you handle high conflict divorces?

Yes. Garry has significant courtroom experience with contested custody, property disputes, financial misconduct allegations, and personal protection issues. If your case may go to trial, you will be prepared.

What if we agree on everything? Do I still need a lawyer?

Even amicable divorces benefit from legal review. We can prepare your documents, ensure the agreements meet Michigan requirements, and help avoid future disputes.

How long does a divorce take in Michigan?

Uncontested divorces with no minor children can be completed in as little as sixty days. Cases involving children or contested issues take longer, often several months, depending on complexity and the court’s schedule.

Parenting Time and Support

How is parenting time decided?

Michigan uses the best interest factors, which include the child’s needs, the stability of each home, the parents’ ability to cooperate, and any history of domestic issues. Courts encourage structured schedules that support the child’s wellbeing.

How is child support calculated?

Support is based on Michigan’s Child Support Formula, which considers income, overnights, health insurance, childcare costs, and other factors. We can calculate estimated support during your consultation.

Can parenting time or support orders be changed later?

Yes. If your circumstances have changed, such as income changes, relocation, or a shift in the child’s needs, the court can modify existing orders.

Domestic Violence and Safety

What if I am being harassed or threatened by my spouse or partner?

Your safety is the priority. We help clients obtain Personal Protection Orders and take immediate steps to secure temporary custody, exclusive use of the home, and other emergency protections.

Property, Finances, and Business Ownership

Can you help with property and business division?

Yes. We regularly handle cases involving real estate, retirement accounts, family businesses, professional practices, and high-value assets. We work to protect your financial future and ensure full disclosure of all assets.

What if my spouse controls the finances or hides assets?

We use discovery tools and subpoenas to obtain financial records and identify hidden or undervalued assets. Full disclosure is required under Michigan law.

Bankruptcy Services

(Handled by Steve, Bankruptcy Attorney)

What types of bankruptcy do you handle?

We assist with personal Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases. We also advise individuals and small business owners who need to close a business or evaluate Chapter 11 options.

Can I keep my house or car if I file?

Often, yes. Michigan allows exemptions that protect equity in your home, vehicle, and other assets. Steve will explain which exemptions apply to your situation.

What is the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13?

Chapter 7 eliminates most unsecured debts if you qualify. Chapter 13 creates a structured repayment plan over three to five years to address mortgage arrears, tax debts, and other obligations. The right choice depends on income, goals, and timing.

Will bankruptcy ruin my credit?

Bankruptcy affects credit, but most clients begin rebuilding quickly. Many qualify for new credit within one to two years, often on better terms than before filing.

Can you help with business-related debt?

Yes. We work with small business owners facing unmanageable loans, leases, tax issues, or business closures.

Additional Family Law Services

Do you handle prenuptial agreements?

Yes. We draft and review prenuptial agreements to clarify expectations, protect assets, and reduce conflict in the future.

Do you represent clients outside Farmington Hills?

Yes. We serve clients throughout Oakland, Wayne, Macomb, and Washtenaw counties, including Farmington Hills, Novi, West Bloomfield, Northville, Canton, Plymouth, Livonia, Southfield, and Westland.