Family Law
Trusted Guidance for the People and Relationships That Matter Most
Family law touches the most personal parts of life — your children, your home, and your future. At Schmeltzer Law, we understand the emotions and uncertainty that come with these cases. Whether you’re facing a custody dispute, modifying a support order, or protecting your parental rights, we provide steady, compassionate guidance to help you make confident decisions.
Understanding Family Law in Michigan
Michigan family law covers a broad range of issues beyond divorce — including custody, parenting time, child support, paternity, adoption, and guardianship. Every situation is unique, and outcomes depend on clear documentation, strong advocacy, and understanding the court’s perspective.
At Schmeltzer Law, we explain your rights and options in plain language, develop practical legal strategies, and represent your interests in or out of court. Our focus is always on finding solutions that protect your family’s stability and well-being.
Key Issues in Family Law
Child Custody & Parenting Time
Your relationship with your child is irreplaceable. We help parents create fair, sustainable parenting time arrangements that prioritize the child’s best interests while respecting both parents’ roles. Whether your case involves joint custody, sole custody, or modifying an existing order, we ensure your voice is heard.
Child Support
Michigan’s child support laws can be complex. We assist in establishing, enforcing, and modifying support orders to make sure your child’s financial needs are met — fairly and consistently.
Paternity
Determining legal parentage can be critical for both mothers and fathers. We guide clients through establishing or disputing paternity to protect parental rights and secure the support and benefits a child deserves.
Adoption & Guardianship
Bringing a child into your family through adoption or guardianship is a deeply meaningful process. We manage all legal requirements with care, ensuring the process is handled smoothly, efficiently, and in full compliance with Michigan law.
In every family law matter, our goal is to reduce conflict, protect relationships, and reach lasting resolutions that support your family’s future.
Resolving Family Law Disputes
Court isn’t always the only answer — and in many cases, it’s not the best one. Family law matters often benefit from cooperative solutions that preserve relationships, reduce emotional strain, and allow families to maintain greater control over outcomes.
Mediation
A constructive process that encourages open communication and helps both parties find common ground under the guidance of a neutral mediator. Mediation often leads to faster, more amicable agreements while minimizing court involvement.
Collaborative Family Law
In this approach, both spouses or parents — along with their attorneys — commit to resolving disputes respectfully and transparently without going to court. It promotes honesty,
Post-Judgment Modifications
Life changes. Whether it’s a new job, relocation, or change in your child’s needs, existing custody or support orders may need to be updated. We assist with modifying judgments so they continue to reflect your family’s current circumstances.
When alternative resolution isn’t possible, we are fully prepared to advocate for you in court — always prioritizing dignity, integrity, and your family’s long-term stability.
Our approach balances firm legal advocacy with empathy, helping families find closure without unnecessary stress or hostility.
Same-Sex Families
Schmeltzer Law proudly supports all families. We help same-sex couples with adoption, parentage rights, custody disputes, and dissolutions, ensuring every family receives the same respect and legal protection under Michigan law.
Why Choose Schmeltzer Law
Family law requires more than legal knowledge — it requires understanding, patience, and trust. Attorney Lori Schmeltzer takes the time to learn your story, explain your options, and build a path toward resolution that protects both your rights and your peace of mind.
“When your family’s future is uncertain, my role is to help you find clarity, stability, and a way forward — both legally and personally.”
— Lori Schmeltzer, Attorney & Founder
Ready to Take the Next Step?
When family challenges arise, the right legal partner can make all the difference. Contact Schmeltzer Law today to schedule your consultation and start building a solution that works for your family.