Ann Arbor and Tecumseh Divorce Mediation Lawyers
At Stimpson & Associates P.C., we have 20+ years of dedicated family law experience, serving families in Ann Arbor (Washtenaw County) and Tecumseh (Lenawee County). Our local expertise means we fully understand the distinct mediation rules and procedures in each court system—such as mandatory mediation under certain Washtenaw County judges and voluntary mediation in Lenawee County.
Whether you’re dealing with complex asset division, sensitive child custody matters, or high-conflict situations, our team can guide you toward a more peaceful resolution. Mediation offers a non-adversarial environment that empowers you and your spouse to maintain control over critical decisions regarding your family’s future.
Ready to see how mediation can help you? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
What Is Divorce Mediation?
Divorce mediation is a neutral, cooperative process where a trained mediator helps you and your spouse negotiate agreements on property division, child custody, spousal support, and more—outside the formal courtroom setting. In Washtenaw County, some judges require you to participate in mediation at the beginning of your divorce case, while Lenawee County offers mediation on a voluntary basis through the Friend of the Court.
Unlike litigation, mediation fosters communication in a private setting, aiming to reduce conflict and preserve valuable relationships—especially when children are involved. It’s also designed to help couples adhere to important Michigan Court Rules such as MCR 3.216, which governs domestic relations mediation, ensuring each party’s rights are protected.
Want to learn if mediation is the right fit for your family? Call us to book a consultation today.
Benefits of Divorce Mediation
- Cost-Effectiveness: In both Ann Arbor and Tecumseh, mediated divorces often cost between $3,000 and $8,000, significantly less than litigating in court, which can easily exceed $10,000.
- Time Efficiency: Mediation can resolve most divorces in 3-6 months, compared to 6-12 months or longer for litigation, especially if court dockets are crowded.
- Privacy and Confidentiality: Mediation sessions remain private and out of public record, an important benefit for professionals or high-profile clients.
- Reduced Emotional Stress: By fostering a spirit of collaboration, mediation can help maintain a functional co-parenting relationship and minimize hostility.
- Personalized Solutions: You and your spouse create tailored agreements that align with your unique family needs—especially helpful when children or complex assets are involved.
Ready to reduce stress and costs? Contact us now to schedule your divorce mediation consultation.
Our Approach to Mediation
Our firm takes a client-focused approach, blending facilitative and evaluative mediation styles. We place a high priority on clear communication throughout each step of the process:
1. Early-Stage Preparation:
We gather financial information, review local court guidelines (like Washtenaw County’s approved mediator lists), and screen for potential domestic violence concerns using the Michigan Domestic Violence Screening Protocol.
2. Mid-Stage Sessions:
We facilitate discussions on critical topics like child custody, parenting time, spousal support, and QDRO considerations for retirement accounts. Our attorneys keep you informed of Michigan Court Rules and any relevant Friend of the Court recommendations.
3. Late-Stage Agreements:
We help finalize your mediated agreement, ensuring it’s legally sound. In Ann Arbor cases, if needed, we’ll submit the agreement for approval to meet Washtenaw County requirements; for Tecumseh matters, we coordinate with the Lenawee County court system or the Friend of the Court.
By customizing each stage to your family’s needs, we support both efficiency and fairness—crucial to long-term success post-divorce.
Looking for a structured, supportive mediation process? Schedule your consultation with our team today.
Specialized Mediation Expertise
Have a complex or sensitive situation? We are well-versed in handling a wide range of family situations, including:
Domestic Violence & High-Conflict Cases
When there’s a history of abuse or a Personal Protection Order (PPO) in place, we follow strict safety protocols. Virtual mediation or separate sessions may be arranged to protect everyone’s well-being.
Complex Financial Disputes
Ann Arbor’s high-income households often involve university pensions (403[b] accounts), stock options, or business assets. We partner with financial experts to value these assets accurately.
Agricultural & Rural Family Concerns
In Tecumseh, cases may include farmland, livestock, or multi-generational family businesses. We help develop equitable property division that respects long-term family interests.
Special Needs Children
For families with special needs, we integrate specialized plans for ongoing medical care, therapy, and educational accommodations.
Role of Our Attorneys in Mediation
At Stimpson & Associates P.C., our attorneys can serve in one of two capacities:
1. Neutral Mediators
If both parties agree to a single neutral professional, we guide discussions and keep the focus on equitable resolutions. We do not represent either party in this role.
2. Individual Legal Representation
If you prefer to have separate counsel, we provide strategic guidance and clear communication to protect your interests at every stage. This is especially helpful if you’re dealing with complex assets or high-conflict matters.
Regardless of our role, we ensure every mediated agreement meets Michigan’s legal requirements, so once a judge signs off, it becomes binding and enforceable.
Need a trusted mediator or personal legal counsel? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Post-Mediation Services
Reaching a final agreement is just the beginning. We provide ongoing support if your circumstances change:
1. Modifications
If job changes, relocations, or life events necessitate altering custody or support terms, we can reopen and adjust the agreements accordingly.
2. Enforcement
Should the other party fail to comply with a mediated settlement, we take swift legal action through local courts or the Friend of the Court to protect your rights.
3. QDRO Implementation
We coordinate with QDRO specialists to divide retirement accounts properly, preventing tax penalties and ensuring you receive the share awarded to you.
Need assistance modifying or enforcing an existing agreement? Get in touch to book a consultation today.
Why Choose Stimpson & Associates P.C.
1. 20+ Years of Family Law Experience
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- Our extensive background in Ann Arbor and Tecumseh courts means we know how to navigate local rules effectively.
2. Comprehensive Family Law Services
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- We handle all aspects of divorce—from property division and child custody to specialized cases involving domestic violence or special needs children.
3. Client-Focused Approach
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- We prioritize understanding your family’s unique situation. Clear communication and empathy guide every recommendation we make.
4. Efficient & Fair Resolutions
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- Our goal is to settle disputes quickly, often in 3-6 months, while ensuring your mediated agreements stand the test of time.
Discover how our experienced team can help you find a fair, cost-effective resolution—contact us now to schedule your consultation.
What Our Clients Are Saying
My wife and I worked with Jessica Kelly to rewrite and update our estate documents. Jessica was thoughtful, caring, articulate and professional and showed a thorough understanding of issues we faced. She worked carefully and patiently with us to produce a document that we feel will serve us well. Without reservation, we would recommend her services to others.
Our family experienced an unimaginable tragedy and Stimpson Law helped us every step of the way. They were understanding, caring, and showed compassion while handling our legal matters. We are so appreciative of the entire office and highly recommend them.
Mr. Stimpson and his colleagues were so kind and very polite and helpful, when I was going through my divorce. They took the time and patience to explain everything in detail to my understanding. I would refer Stimpson & Associates to anyone who needs lawyer services.
I wish I could give Stimpson and his team more than five stars! Stimpson was my attorney for a drawn-out and emotional case. He kept me level-headed, focused, and most importantly, prepared. I genuinely appreciate his advice, his honesty, and his straightforward attitude. My fight was his fight and that was evident in the courtroom. Stimpson was worth every single penny! A BIG thank you to him and his team!
Stimpson & Associates Attorneys
David M. Stimpson
Managing Partner
David Lacasse
Attorney
Jessica Kelly
Attorney
Amy Parker
Attorney
Contact Us
We’re here to help you navigate divorce mediation in Ann Arbor or Tecumseh—and everywhere in between.Â
We offer flexible appointment times, including virtual consultations, to accommodate your schedule. Our team is committed to making the mediation process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Take the first step toward a brighter future—call or message us today to schedule your consultation.