Licensed for 33 years

State MI

Acquired 1989

Status
Active in Good Standing No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Donald C. Wheaton Jr.

Child custody Attorney at Saint Clair Shores, MI

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Resume

Excellent service

Honest, Down to earth

About Donald

Learn Donald’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Child custody

35%

Where parents never married or after divorce, many custody, parenting time, and child support disputes arise. I work hard to help resolve these matters to minimize the damage to the children and parties. When I must, I will take a case to trial.
... Read more
23 years
Divorce and separation

35%

I have earned my reputation as a "resolver." I won't drag out your case, because you need to move forward. If the case warrants it, though, I'm not afraid to go to trial. Knowing when to draw a hard line is a decision you and I will make together.
... Read more
23 years
Chapter 7 bankruptcy

5%

I help consumers get a deserved fresh start. I'm often able to obtain relief that other bankruptcy attorneys say can't be achieved, and one reason is that I am a longtime trial lawyer who is not afraid to pursue tough and complicated legal theories.
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21 years
Criminal defense

5%

I have handled mostly misdemeanor cases (DUI, theft, disorderly conduct, etc.), but I have also successfully defended many felony cases. I'm a skilled negotiator, often able to obtain excellent results with plea bargains--and I'm not afraid of trial.
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21 years
DUI and DWI

5%

Not only do I defend clients charged with these crimes, I later help them restore their driving privileges/license. I work with clients and courts to obtain whatever assistance clients might reasonably require to never be in this position again.
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21 years
Litigation

5%

I've been a trial attorney since day 1, representing plaintiffs and defendants in civil disputes. I've handled everything from complicated engineering and medical issues to simple contract claims. My negotiating skills help resolve cases swiftly.
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34 years
Probate

5%

Probate issues often hit clients when they are in difficult emotional times. They bring out the worst in family, too. I listen carefully and provide counsel to help resolve tough issues, prepare appropriate paperwork, and (when I have to) litigate.
... Read more
34 years
Speeding and traffic ticket

5%

You shouldn't fight a traffic ticket without an attorney. More often than not, City Attorneys and Police Officers/Troopers are more willing to reduce infractions when you bring an attorney to negotiate on your behalf. Don't let your insurance go up!
... Read more
34 years

REAL PEOPLE, REAL PROBLEMS -- SOLVED.

Over my 32 years in practice, I have had clients ranging from Fortune 100 companies in complex business litigation matters, to indigent individuals whom I defend against criminal charges, to spouses and parents navigating the emotions and difficulties of divorce. Having experience in a wide variety of court cases representing both Plaintiffs and Defendants gives me better perspective of what is required from both sides of the bar, and offers me an advantage in negotiating matters to resolution or trying cases to verdict when necessary.

I'm not going to blow smoke up your nether regions; no one has time for that. I relate to my clients personally, and will give it to you straight, without legalese. It's important to me that you fully understand what is going on; after all, it is your case and your life that is affected.

I am a tireless volunteer, giving time to Boy Scouts at many levels for the past 23 years; serving as a School Board member for 28 years; working with the St. Clair Shores Goodfellows for the last 18 years; and helping out at numerous school and community events. I'm also a voracious reader, a passionate music fan, a dapper dresser, and I keep abreast of current events and politics.

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Contact Donald

Donald C. Wheaton, Jr., P.C.

(586) 789-9284 Office

(586) 789-9284 Mobile

22811 Greater Mack Avenue

Suite 111

Saint Clair Shores, MI, 48080-2053

lawyerhousecalls.com/

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Reviews

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4.8 / 5.0

27 customer reviews

5 Star

93%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by Nicholas | May 9, 2019

Excellent service

Donald Wheaton is excellent, he is very knowledgable in family law. When I called him with questions the phone was always answered. Donald is alway looking out for you, he is too the point and will guide you through any situation. He feels like a friend working your case, it was a blessing working with him.

Posted by Jeff | June 15, 2018

Honest, Down to earth

Don is an amazing attorney. He is very quick to answer any questions and comes to you when it’s convenient..even evenings and weekends. He handled my case professionally and with compassion. I would definitely recommend him to anyone who needs an attorney.

Posted by Mary | March 6, 2022

Great lawyer

Don helped me finalize my Divorce Decree in 2019. Also, he recently helped me when my ex husband filed a motion for more Parenting Time. Don is a good listener, an outstanding writer and very professional. He is honest and trustworthy . He has always been helpful and knowledgeable when I have reached out to him. I would recommend him to anyone in need of a lawyer.

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Response from Donald Wheaton March 24, 2022

Thanks, Mary. I really enjoyed helping you "across the finish line," as it were, and our work together after the judgment was entered. You are a pleasure to work with and it's been my privilege to represent you and your children's best interests.

Posted by john | February 7, 2022

Just the basics for protection

Needed something simple for my mom .... needed simple will, quit claim deed and P.O.A / medical power only me her "son" and my mom. Just Simple and Reasonable.

Response from Donald Wheaton February 8, 2022

Thank you very much for your kind words. It was my privilege to help.

Posted by Erin | September 22, 2021

I won the lawyer lottery

Don Wheaton has done an amazing job of handling my coparenting issues with my ex husband. He was able to get me real results, which gives my life some much needed peace. I also know that in the future I can reach out at anytime and we will pick up where we left off. He is honest and not in it just for the money. He has been highly referred to me by many people and I would highly refer him to anyone in a heartbeat. He is top notch.

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Response from Donald Wheaton September 23, 2021

Thank you so much, Erin. It has been my pleasure and privilege to work with you.

Posted by Lori Ann | September 14, 2021

Don Wheaton Is a great lawyer!

The Reason why Don Wheaton was a great lawyer he was there when I needed someone to discuss information where I couldn’t ask anyone else to help me. He is very trustworthy and very knowledgeable. Always had time to talk be it the phone, text, etc. I have great respect for him so if anyone is looking for a reliable trustworthy lawyer Donald Wheaton is the one. I have never had to go through this kind of extensive experience but he made it easy to talk to and explained it in the terms that I could understand. Sometimes it’s a bad time That you are going through. He is very respectful and treats everyone and equal level no matter what the case is. So I would highly recommend Don and being the best representative you could hope to have. He gives you sound advice. He lets you be the one to decide how you want the case to go never judging just being very personable and what his job entails

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Response from Donald Wheaton September 15, 2021

Thanks, Lori. I appreciate your kind words and do my very best for each of my clients.

Posted by Nina | August 23, 2021

Business Malpractice Suit -- Well done!

I highly recommend Don Wheaton. I know him through professional circles and hired him to help my client with a professional malpractice suit against her former CPA. Don was always prepared, extremely knowledgeable, and very kind. His ability to stay on top of court filing deadlines and anticipate the next steps was impressive. When we got into court, his preparation, professionalism, and comfort with the process was so stunning that the defending attorney asked for a settlement after a few hours. Don then guided us through the settlement process seamlessly, handled the payments so my client would not have to face the defendant, and even created a plan to keep the defendant on their payment schedule. Wow! We couldn’t have asked for better legal advice or representation. I plan to use Don for all my business and personal legal issues in the future.

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Response from Donald Wheaton September 23, 2021

I am humbled by your kind words, Nina. It is always a pleasure working with you, and I was grateful to get such a good result for our mutual client.

Posted by anonymous | August 18, 2021

Wonderful

Not only do I recommend attorney Donald Wheaton, but I guarantee once you have used his service you too will look no further. He responds in a timely matter, he is a very compassionate, knowledge and trustworthy person. There is no other attorney that will work as hard for you. My family has hired Donald, he is a wonderful attorney and we could not have been more pleased with his services and will never go anywhere else.

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Posted by Eve | May 13, 2021

Divorce

Mr. Donald Wheaton Jr. provided me the best representation in my divorce case. His level of expertise, experience and professionalism is beyond outstanding. He was always organized and well prepared for everything that was presented by the opposing counsel. This was one of the most difficult moments in my life! He is also very compassionate and I definitely was in good hands. I don’t know how to thank him enough. I highly recommend Don to everyone.

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Posted by Renee | April 28, 2021

Didn't take long to know that Don was perfect for my case...

I spent less than an hour on the phone to tell Don why my son (and I) needed him, before this gut feeling came over me - the feeling of "he is going to be a great fit". He was knowledgeable, sharp, understanding, funny, and picked up pieces of the puzzle that even I couldn't explain...and it was MY story. I hired him, the same day, to file a motion to change parenting time, change schools for my 13 year old son, and remove child support. Lots of ups and downs from the day Don was hired to the day everything was finalized by the judge. Not my first rodeo when it comes to hiring an attorney, so I can assure you, he'll HELP because he cares, and if I had to do it all again, I'd spend less time on that initial phone call and hire him instantly. I cannot thank him enough for the advice, laughs, quick responses, and even those times when I was forced to hear the ugly truth...you made it all worth it. Justin thanks you too. :) You rock, Don.

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Posted by Katherine | November 1, 2020

Highly Recommend

Don is a very intelligent, confident, competent, and thorough lawyer. In addition to these professional attributes, he is a kind and caring person - certainly something that a client appreciates in a divorce lawyer. Unlike many other lawyers who work for large law firms, Don is a One-Man Band and does everything himself. Expect some delays, as you will not be his only client, but don't let that deter or frustrate you. You will be very pleased with how Don handles all aspects of your case. I would have no hesitation recommending him to anyone looking for an attorney with his specializations.

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Posted by Angel L. Miller | June 6, 2020

Ms. Angel L. Miller

Don was very informative...he very calmly walked me through the process..his prices are very reasonable..and his patience with this impatient client was beyond immeasurable...I couldn’t thank him enough for his guidance

Posted by Carolyn Coakley | October 24, 2016

Response Time

Don got back to me in a timely manner. And he makes house calls! We are meeting on Tuesday, 10/25.

Posted by Kevin | March 9, 2016

Represented me well in divorce case

Donald represented me during my divorce case. I never had any trouble getting through to him as he would always promptly return my calls/texts (including evenings and weekends). When we would meet, we would pick someplace convenient for me. From the start to the end of the case, he always focused on "my" goals. He was able to reach a settlement with my ex that I am satisfied with. I will be sure to get ahold of Don for any future needs.

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Posted by John | February 13, 2015

Safety Concern

I spoke to Mr. Wheaton and he was very courteous and knowledgeable. We had a long conversation with many ideas flowing back and forth. After our conversation I felt very good about what we discussed. I would definitely recommend retaining Mr. Wheaton.

Posted by Laura | February 11, 2015

Laura Cawley

Donald Wheaton Jr., did an excellent job assisting my friend with a real estate issue that she had. I will continue to refer all attorney matters to his attention.

Posted by Tom | September 7, 2014

A lawyer you can count on.

Donald Wheaton, during the divorce case, was indeed the rock we needed. He was confident, knowledgeable, trustworthy, detailed, and above all else, empathetic, and caring of the situation and emotional moments the divorce brought on. He was kind, and professional, working hard to represent our side. I was very happy with Donald Wheaton and his representation. Thank you Mr. Wheaton.

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Posted by Dave | December 3, 2013

He Works to Get it Right! Fantastic Attorney.

Don is a very caring person. There are so many lawyers in this country, but I would have to search long and hard for another who cared about my issue and me as a person. He was beside me through one of the worst times in my life. He would listen and was so understanding, I can't express how important that was to me! No Rush, No Push to simply resolve the problem. He was a great, he took the time to work within the law to make sure I would not become another statistic of poor guidance. I have referred him to friends and will continue to do so, I myself would never hesitate to go to him with any issue. The strength is in the pursuit of justice when faced with a legal issue, He Won't Run from the Challenge to Get it Right ! If your ever faced with what I went through, you will need a person with compassion and understanding to represent you and to get it right. I think that as much as the law is important during a divorce emotional support from the person representing you is just as important. They Have To Listen and Don did just that. I had made contact with other lawyers prior to being referred to Don and it made all the difference in the world to me. Don, Thank You So Very Much For Everything You Did...

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Posted by Jon | August 17, 2012

This man gives credibility to all lawyers by the way he takes his role as a professional seriously

Don is very honest and upfront about everything. He is very detail oriented and asked questions that no one else thought about asking concerning my divorce case. He even called me back on a weekend! I have no trouble whatsoever recommending this gentleman no matter what your leagal issue.

Posted by Rodney | December 11, 2011

Outstanding Professional!

Don Wheaton has been by far; the most thorough, focused and detailed oriented attorney that I can actually say, that I am proud to have had to the pleasure to have worked for me and my case. Mr. Wheaton was referred to me after the unfortunate death of my attorney. My current lawsuit was already a 1 Â½ year work in progress and seemed to be dragging out with no end in sight. When I sat down with Mr. Wheaton to discuss my case, I quickly discovered that not only was he extremely interested in the facts of my case but how this ongoing litigation had been affecting my life financially and emotionally. He established a focused plan of action that not only resolved my case on the Circuit Court level, but also in the Court of Appeals. Results â€“ Dismissed, Dismissed!!! Thank you Don, for your professionalism, knowledge, responsiveness to questions, your dedication to truly understanding the facts and your ability to developing a real solution to expedite my case. Your dedicated efforts not only minimized the financial strain of defending my case but you gave me the peace of mind that I really needed during this stressful time. I give my highest recommendations for Don Wheaton to anyone who is in need of a professional, knowledgeable and responsive attorney. Give him a call!

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

President
Donald C. Wheaton, Jr., P.C.
2008 - Present

Staff Attorney
Consolidated Legal Services, P.C.
2007 - 2008

President
Donald C. Wheaton, Jr., P.C.
2005 - 2007

Associate Attorney
Richard L. Steinberg, P.C.
1997 - 2005

Associate Attorney
Haisch & Boyda, P.C.
1989 - 1997

View all work experience

Education

The University of Michigan Law School
JD - Juris Doctor
1989

Alma College
Bachelor of Arts
1986

Legal Cases

Corcoran v. Publow, 418 B.R. 231 (E.D.Mich. 2009)
Successfully defeated the Trustee's objections to the Debtors' exemptions in their tax refunds.

Ormsby v. Capital Welding, Inc., 471 Mich. 45, 684 N.W.2d 320 (Mich. 2004)
Changed Michigan caselaw regarding construction injury cases.

Schoenherr v. Stuart Frankel Dev. Co., 260 Mich.App. 172, 679 N.W.2d 147 (Mich.App. 2003)
Successfully blocked the Defendant's dismissal motion at the trial court level, but lost on appeal.

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Associations

Family Law Section, State Bar of Michigan
Recording Secretary
2021 - Present

Council, Family Law Section, State Bar of Michigan
Member
2018 - Present

Executive Board, LGBTQA Section, State Bar of Michigan
Member
2017 - Present

BNI East Side Launchpad
Leadership Team (many roles)
2010 - Present

State Bar of Michigan
Attorney
1989 - Present

State Bar of Michigan, LGBTQA Section
Chairperson
2020 - 2021

Council, LGBTQA Section, State Bar of Michigan
Member
2017 - 2020

Consumer Bankruptcy Association
Member
2009 - 2009

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Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Most Valuable Networker
BNI East Side Launchpad
2021

Excellence in Family/Divorce Law
Lawyers of Distinction
2021

America's Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys - Michigan
America's Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys
2021

America's Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys - Michigan
America's Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys
2020

Excellence in Family/Divorce Law
Lawyers of Distinction
2020

Distinguished Humanitarian
Marquis Who's Who
2020

SuperLawyer - Family Law
SuperLawyers
2020

Who's Who in America
Marquis Who's Who
2020

Recognition: 25 years of service as a School Board Trustee
Lakeview Public Schools
2019

SuperLawyer - Family Law
SuperLawyers
2019

America's Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys - Michigan
America's Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys
2019

Excellence in Family/Divorce Law
Lawyers of Distinction
2019

Excellence in Family/Divorce Law
Lawyers of Distinction
2018

SuperLawyer - Family Law
SuperLawyers
2018

SuperLawyer - Family Law
SuperLawyers
2017

Bronze Pelican Award
Great Lakes Field Service Council, Boy Scouts of America
2017

Vigil Honor
Noquet Lodge, Order of the Arrow
2012

Silver Beaver Award
Great Lakes Council, Boy Scouts of America
2011

District Award of Merit
Great Lakes Council, Boy Scouts of America, Lakeshore District
2010

View all awards

Publications

Michigan Family Law Journal
"Pro" Tips and Refreshers for Zoom Virtual Hearings
2021

Macomb County Bar Association, Bar Briefs
"Setting the Stage: Tips for Making Your Best Impression and Conveying the Message You Want During a 'Zoom' Hearing"
2020

Michigan Family Law Journal
"Bankruptcy Practice in Michigan in the Wake of Obergefell v. Hodges"
2017

Black's Law Dictionary, 9th Ed.
Practitioner Contributor
2009

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Speaking Engagements

Midsummer Conference
"Weed Whisperers--Marijuana Use and Its Impact on Custody and Parenting Time Issues"
2021

Horse Sense in Family Law - Midsummer Conference
"The Tack You Should Take When Saddling Up to Deal With School Issues"
2020

Aging Well In America - Cable TV Show
Issues Confronting Children of Aging Parents
2015

Attorney endorsements

Received (6)

Given (3)

Endorse Donald

Eileen Warshaw

Family Attorney | Aug 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Don is a very good advocate for his clients. He participates in continuing legal education and is well respected in Macomb County among attorneys, judges and their staff."

Annette Raczkowski

Divorce and separation Attorney | Feb 05
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. I have had several matters with Don and he is an extremely well respected and professional attorney to work with on a case. I always know that he will be well prepared and ready to do the work required. Don does an excellent job of representing his clients aggressively through his preparation and knowledge of the law. He also is very understadning of hi cleints needs, Ultimately, Don's clients benefit the most from his professionalism and the respect he receives from other attorneys . I highly recommend Don Wheaton Jr."

Marc Deldin

Family Attorney | Jul 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Don. He understands the complex dynamics that cause divorce and custody disputes. Don can be the fierce pit bull or the calming conciliator. Family law is not suited for a "one size fits all" solution, and Don tailors his approach based on the facts of the case. I do not hesitate to send family referrals to Don."

Gregory Dean

Unknown Attorney | Nov 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. In my experience, Don has always been very attentive to his client's needs. He assesses each person's case carefully, and strives to find the best possible result for his clients. I believe Don to be a highly proffesional attorney who works hard to achieve his client's goals."

Timothy Dinan

Litigation Attorney | Apr 04
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer's work. He is honest, hard-working and a dedicated advocate. Don will give your matter its due attention. He is an expert on Michigan's Court Rules, Evidence and other aspects of litigation. Before hiring another attorney, meet with Don Wheaton. You won't regret it."

Joseph Bernwanger

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Mar 25
Relationship: Friend

"Mr. Wheaton is extremely thorough and detailed in each case he takes. He treats his clients with the utmost respect and care. I've worked personally with Mr. Wheaton on many prior cases and would highly endorse him and recommend him to anybody seeking quality legal representation."

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Annette Raczkowski

Divorce and separation

Gregory Dean

Divorce and separation

Joseph Bernwanger

Chapter 7 bankruptcy