Personable, yet direct with clear and effective communication

After 17 years of marriage, we had accumulated assets and had ownership in a successful small business and numerous other mutual holdings and interests. While our children are adults, our agreement did involve spousal maintenance. The point being, it was complicated and there was plenty to ‘fight over’. But we were not “at war”! And if you are reading this in the early stages of a divorce, I implore you, go to a paintball course, but don’t use a divorce proceeding as a means to inflict pain for the hurt you feel! The ricochet will hurt you too!!! What impressed me first with Michelle was rather than jumping-in and saying “here’s how it is”, she took the time to understand me, my tone, and my objectives. She ensured the issues were clearly understood and made sure the agreement was fair. She also recognizes that an amicable solution requires negotiation and give-and-take, by both parties. In many ways, I found Michelle to be a facilitator. She has many years of experience and has seen structures and agreements that work, and those that don’t, and was able to provide suggestions throughout the process for me to consider. Perhaps our biggest challenge was not reaching agreement, but the Agreement itself. It was complicated legal document. Michelle took our agreement in principle and crafted a sound legal document that can be clearly interpreted and enforced. A poorly written agreement is detrimental to both parties! Michelle enlisted independent support from other attorneys in her office who were unfamiliar with our case to ensure the Agreement was unambiguous without further explanation. And despite multiple iterations Michelle never demonstrated frustration or irritation. Lastly, I found Michelle to be personable, yet direct. She communicates clearly and effectively, and always maintained the highest standard of professionalism. Thanks to Michelle, we did not destroy ourselves or each other, and we remain great friends! With heartfelt gratitude for helping me through a very difficult process, I highly recommend Michelle Perkins.