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Wendy S. Alton

Divorce and separation Attorney at Ann Arbor, MI

4.9   52 reviews
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
(734) 388-4609
Message Website
  • Licensed for 20 years
    State MI
    Acquired 2003
    Status
    Active in Good Standing No misconduct found

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

Wendy = a great investment!
anonymous
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
Thoughtful, thorough and experienced.
John
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
Read more reviews

About Wendy

Learn Wendy’s areas of practice.

4
Practice areas
  1. Divorce and separation
    35%
    Collaborative Divorce, Negotiated Divorce Settlements, Divorce Mediation, Divorce Litigation, Child Custody, Child Support, Parenting Time, Paternity, Spousal Support/Alimony, Property Division, Settlement.

    21 years

  2. Uncontested divorce
    35%
    Collaborative Divorce, Negotiated Divorce Settlements, Divorce Mediation, Divorce Litigation, Child Custody, Child Support, Parenting Time, Paternity, Spousal Support/Alimony, Property Division, Settlement.

    21 years

  3. Mediation
    25%
    Collaborative Divorce, Mediation for Divorce, Child Custody, Child Support, Parenting Time, Paternity, Spousal Support/Alimony, Property Division & Settlement.

    14 years

  4. Marriage and prenuptials
    5%
    Prenuptial Agreements, Antenuptial Agreements, Property Settlements

    21 years

EXPERIENCED AND COMPASSIONATE ATTORNEY EMPOWERING CLIENTS TO CREATIVELY RESOLVE FAMILY CONFLICT.

Dedicated to empowering clients to make the best decisions they can as they navigate through the emotional, financial, and legal aspects of a divorce. I am a trial attorney, certified collaborative divorce attorney, and certified mediator in Ann Arbor, Michigan. I focus solely in family law, and assist my clients with traditional litigation, negotiated settlements, mediation, arbitration, and collaborative divorce.

I help families with their issues in areas of divorce, custody, parenting time, child support, spousal support, and property division, along with post-judgment issues that arise in those areas. I do this through different processes for divorce such as traditional litigation, negotiated settlements, mediation, arbitration, and collaborative divorce. I also assist with prenuptial agreements, or agreements regarding property prior to getting married.

I am very passionate about my clients and what I do, and I am dedicated to educating my clients about issues that involve the family. I post regularly on my Michigan Family Law blog and AVVO. I have been a guest columnist in local newspapers, including the Northville Record. I have been interviewed on family law issues by ABC News and print media, including the Detroit News.

In 2009 I was certified as a Divorce and Custody Mediator after rigorous training at the Mediation Training and Consultation Institute. I was certified as a Collaborative Divorce Attorney after completion of the Collaborative Divorce Basic Training in 2020. I attended Advanced Mediation and Collaborative Training in 2012 and 2020, and completed my Domestic Violence Screening Protocol Training in 2009.

I have been named to the Michigan Super Lawyers "Rising Stars," demonstrating a high degree of professional achievement and peer recognition. Each year, no more than 2.5% of the lawyers in Michigan receive this prestigious designation.

I earned my law degree, Juris Doctor, from Wayne State University Law School in 2002. I am a proud alumni of the University of Michigan-Dearborn, and graduated in 1998 with my Bachelor of Arts degree.

Awards

Client's Choice 2021,2017,2016,2015,2012
Client's Choice
2021 2017 2016 + 2 ...
Top Contributor 2012
Top Contributor
2012

Photos and videos

Photos and videos

Contact Wendy

Wendy Alton Family Law & Mediation PLC
455 E. Eisenhower Pkwy, Ste 300
Ann Arbor, MI, 48108
wendyaltonlaw.com
Message Get Directions

Reviews

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4.9 / 5.0
  52 customer reviews
5 Star
 
96%
4 Star
 
2%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
2%
Client's Choice 2021
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by anonymous | June 1, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wendy = a great investment!
Investment is the hallmark of Wendy! First and foremost, she invests in you personally by taking the time to really listen and care about you and your story. She showed great compassion and empathy at a time I needed it most. Knowing your story, she uses her expertise and experience to educate and guide you in the process all while investing and advocating for your best interests. Her understanding and positive connections in the family law system are a valuable asset. You will quickly gain both trust and respect for Wendy. She is not only someone I would invest in again for my representation, but also personally as a friend!
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Posted by John | January 19, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thoughtful, thorough and experienced.
Wendy is a fabulous example of someone who listens first, then answers in a most thoughtful and honest way. She is guided by a sincere interest in helping people, and I can say without hesitation that she helped me through a tremendously difficult time. I am ever thankful for her balanced approach, offering insight and perspective that guided me (and my daughter) through choppy waters. I recommend her without hesitation.
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Posted by anonymous | May 14, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent, Knowledgeable and Great to Work with
Wendy worked with me throughout the process of my divorce which included creating a Karen T.I. by time schedule with my children. Not only was she wonderful to work with as a person, she is also extremely organized, reliable, intelligent and well known in the field. Other attorneys and court employees enjoyed working with her which is a plus. She had great insight into situations and I quickly developed full trust in her judgment and advice. I would highly recommend her as an attorney and would absolutely work with her again in the future if the need arises.
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Posted by Natalie | June 14, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Experience and heart
Wendy is an awesome advocate to have on your side when navigating a legal sea. In addition to being a brilliant and pragmatic attorney, she knew exactly what to say to lift my spirits when I was feeling frightened or overwhelmed by the system. My custody case was a bit of a challenge because my former spouse now lives on the west coast, and he initially refused mediation. Wendy worked with his attorney to convince him that it was in our child's best interest to mediate, and then she managed to arrange a session for us to do remotely from her office. Seemingly miraculously, we came to an agreement within a couple of hours. Her expertise and compassion are exactly the right combination to have in your corner. My daughter and I are eternally grateful to her!
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Posted by Samantha | April 28, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wendy is one of a kind
Divorce sucks. The divorce process especially sucks. If you can have someone by your side to help you navigate the legal process and advocate for your needs? I would say this is priceless. Wendy is this person. Does she know the law and the legal process? Absolutely. But where Wendy shines is her ability to truly listen and help you get to your best possible outcome. Going through a divorce can be so painful and isolating. I would highly recommend Wendy. She made me feel like I had someone in my corner and that support truly made a difference. Thank you Wendy!
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Posted by Cathrin | January 23, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Ms.
Wendy was an absolute pleasure to work with. Very knowledgeable and attentive. I would highly recommend her.
Posted by Seth | April 6, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney
Wendy was very detail oriented. She understand every part of my complex case. I achieved results with her. She was available when I needed her and did the absolute best she could do at the time for my custody case.
Posted by Tyson | March 15, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Fantastic Divorce Attorney
Wendy was an invaluable legal representative during my contentious divorce. She provided excellent insight not only into the legal aspects of the case but also as to how things work in reality once the courts get involved. She was thorough in her preparation for all aspects of a divorce, from mediation through to court hearings. Outside of her outstanding legal and practical attorney skills, she was extremely conscientious about communication. Without any hesitation, I would recommend Wendy to others facing a divorce. She was one of the few bright spots in the entire process.
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Posted by Mary | March 15, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Knowledgeable, Caring and Fair!
Short version: If you're looking for someone who still cares about people and not just the bottom line, Wendy is the attorney for you. She is a knowledgeable, fair, honest and caring advocate. Her billing was transparent and extremely fair. She answered emails/phone calls promptly and was always professional. I'd turn to her again.
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Posted by anonymous | September 14, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I would recommend Wendy!!
I hired Wendy for my divorce and she was great. She is very knowledgeable about the laws. She replied promptly to my emails and phone calls. She was very thorough in her responses to my questions. I would recommend her to anyone facing any legal issues.
Posted by Lauren | July 31, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend Wendy Alton Family Law
I highly recommend Wendy Alton Family Law. Wendy provided me with excellent legal service on two separate occasions. She first helped me through a painful divorce. Throughout the process, she carefully outlined each step to ease my concerns and demonstrated a level of compassion not typically found amongst attorneys. I then turned to Wendy again recently for legal services as I embarked upon a new phase of my life. She helped me and my new husband develop our pre-nuptial agreement. Once again, she approached her work with the utmost professionalism. I encourage anyone that is need of a family attorney to contact Wendy Alton.
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Posted by Shannon Crawford | July 7, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wendy Alton
Wendy is amazing, She cares, She listens. She took the time to get to know me, and help me get through a very difficult time in my life when I was at my worst. She was always there day or night to help me and guide with any questions I had. She handle everything to perfection. I can't say enough good about Wendy. She Truly is Winner. Thank You Again Wendy For Everything
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Posted by Christopher | June 11, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thanks Wendy!!
2020/ 2021 was/is not only a difficult time for all, but it was devastating to a lot of people. In my particular situation, not only was I going thru a personal devastating event in my marriage, but also separated from my family & children as well. A friend referred me to a Law Firm that would be able to guide me thru this difficult situation, particularly Wendy Alton. My first consultation with her immediately set me at ease & I knew instantly that this was the right choice for me. Wendy was able to free me of worry, confusion and made me feel at comfortable by stating that though this would be very difficult, everything will be ok. At first, I thought how can this ever be? I put my complete trust in her & sure enough, she was true to her word! THANK YOU Wendy, I’ll never forget your wisdom & brilliance helping me navigate through the most difficult time in my life! -Thank You!! -chris kolano June 11, 2021
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Posted by Vanessa | March 22, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce
Wendy was extremely thorough, knowledgeable and sensitive to my circumstances surrounding my difficult divorce. She answered all my questions, got back to me quickly with any issues and always made me feel like a priority I would recommend her to anyone who was getting divorced she was wonderful!
Posted by Faith | March 5, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Help with divorce proceedings
Wendy was kind and professional from our first phone call. I explained my personal situation and told her I was uncomfortable not knowing how to do any of the process of getting divorced. She advised, listened as we opened the case and was available to contact easily throughout the entire process. I'm very glad she is a lawyer.
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Posted by Gary | June 9, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Post judgement on a Divorce matter
I consulted Wendy regarding a post judgement divorce matter. After reviewing several documents, Wendy was not only understanding of my situation but also helpful in explaining why certain rulings where applied at the time of my divorce. My only regret is that I didn't contact her initially with regards to my divorce, if I did I believe the outcome would have been more favorable and fair on my behalf.
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Posted by Michelle | September 11, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney
Wendy Alton is an excellent attorney. She is very knowledgeable and very caring. She helped me, during a difficult time. I would recommend Wendy to assist with your legal matters.
Posted by anonymous | September 7, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
So pleased with Wendy
Wendy was referred to me indirectly through another attorney. Having no experience with the process, Wendy was kind, patient, empathetic yet extremely positive and professional. Her experience really shone as we ran into opposition/ resistance in the process. She was not just highly intelligent in her approach, but also forward-thinking for my present and future well-being. I was very pleased with Wendy’s understanding of the court system and how to navigate for the best result. Without any doubt, I would highly recommend Wendy for any divorce or family law issue. She is a super individual and attorney who goes to the mat for her client! I learned so much due to her willingness to educate me and repeatedly re-educate me during a very mentally and emotionally draining time. Thank you, Wendy! Life is Good!
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Posted by Kym | March 4, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional, Intelligent, Compassionate
Wendy is a consummate professional. She guided me through a difficult process with both skill and compassion from beginning to end. I highly recommend her.
Posted by Russ | February 8, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
My Estate Planning
Admittedly, I was hesitant about my first meeting with a law firm...But, after consulting with Wendy, my fears quickly disappeared...She explained and walked me through all of the issues of estate planning...She is a true professional, a great communicator, and someone I wholeheartedly recommend. 5 stars.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney / Owner
  • Wendy Alton Family Law & Mediation PLC
  • 2020 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Pear Sperling Eggan & Daniels PC
  • 2012 - 2020
  • Assistant City Attorney/Prosecutor
  • City of Westland, MI
  • 2010 - 2012
  • Attorney
  • Fausone Bohn, LLP
  • 2010 - 2012
  • Owner/Attorney
  • Alton Law Firm PLC
  • 2007 - 2009
  • Associate Attorney
  • Foster, Meadows & Ballard, P.C.
  • 2002 - 2007
  • Law Clerk
  • Fildew Hinks P.L.L.C.
  • 1999 - 2002
View all work experience

Education

  • Collaborative Practice Institute of Michigan
  • Collaborative Practice Certification
  • 2020
  • Collaborative Practice Institute of Michigan
  • Advanced Training
  • 2020
  • Mediation Training and Consultation Institute
  • Divorce Mediation Certification
  • 2009
  • Wayne State University Law School
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2002
  • University of Michigan, Dearborn
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1998
View all education

Associations

  • Collaborative Practice Institute of Michigan
  • Member
  • 2020 - Present
  • Women Lawyers Association of Michigan (WLAM) (Washtenaw Region)
  • Member
  • 2020 - Present
  • Washtenaw County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2012 - Present
  • Livonia Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2007 - Present
  • State Bar of Michigan
  • Member
  • 2003 - Present
  • Family Law Section, Michigan State Bar
  • Member
  • 2003 - Present
  • International Association of Collaborative Professionals
  • Member
  • 2020 - 2021
  • Livonia Bar Association
  • President
  • 2014 - 2015
  • Livonia Bar Association
  • Vice President/President-Elect
  • 2013 - 2014
  • Wayne County Family Law Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2011 - 2014
  • Board of Governors, College of Arts, Sciences & Letters Alumni Affiliate of the University of Michigan-Dearborn Alumni Society
  • Chair, Literature, Arts & Philosophy
  • 2008 - 2011
  • Probate & Estate Planning Section, Michigan State Bar
  • Member
  • 2003 - 2015
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Rising Star
  • Michigan Super Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Rising Star
  • Michigan Super Lawyers
  • 2012

Publications

  • Security Management Magazine
  • Why Valentine's Day Surveilliance may not be a Good Idea (quoted in the article)
  • 2012
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • March Meeting 2020 - Down Syndrome Support Team
  • Developmental Disability Guardianships
  • 2020
  • University of Michigan-Dearborn Commencement - College of Arts, Sciences & Letters
  • Alumni Commencement Address: Mentorship
  • 2015
  • April Meeting 2015 - Down Syndrome Support Team
  • Special Needs Estate Planning
  • 2015
  • Law Day - Livonia Bar Association
  • Ask a Lawyer
  • 2014
  • January Meeting 2013 - Down Syndrome Support Team
  • Special Needs Estate Planning
  • 2013
  • Meeting of Minds - University of Michigan-Dearborn
  • Motivation, Opportunity & Mentorship: Lessons from "Meeting of Minds"
  • 2012
  • Law Day - Livonia Bar Association
  • Ask a Lawyer
  • 2012
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (11)
Given (0)
Endorse Wendy
Stuart M. Collis headshot
Stuart Collis
Family Attorney | Oct 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Wendy is a great colleague who litigates family law cases with zeal at the same time as being respectful to her opponents. She truly is interested in resolving cases effectively and efficiently so that people can move on with their lives in a positive manner."
Timothy J. Klisz headshot
Timothy Klisz
Divorce and separation Attorney | Nov 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Wendy is a top notch family lawyer! I have known her for years and she is a very dedicated, highly competent and compassionate attorney. I have very comfortably referred her my closest friends and clients who need help in family law. She has never disappointed! She gets my highest reccemendation!"
Thomas O. Moors headshot
Thomas Moors
Family Attorney | Feb 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Wendy brings a gift for attention to detail to the table. Clients are well served to secure her services. I admire her ability to articulate issues that are important and not obvious."
Todd Eugene Chawansky headshot
Todd Chawansky
Family Attorney | Jun 05
Relationship: Co-worker
"Wendy is a phenomenal lawyer and an even better person. She understands the needs of her clients, is a compassionate counselor and provides an extraordinary service to families in often difficult times."
Rebecca Suzanne Tooman headshot
Rebecca Tooman
Family Attorney | Apr 15
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Wendy is a very caring and compassionate attorney. I really enjoyed working together to assist in bringing a respectful closure to a long term marriage."
Gregory D. Demopoulos headshot
Gregory Demopoulos
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. She has great skill and is great in the courtroom."
Peter Alan Behrmann headshot
Peter Behrmann
Probate Attorney | May 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Wendy is a great attorney that is involved in the Community. She is active in the Livonia Bar Association and you can tell she truly cares about her clients."
Jason Matthew Shinn headshot
Jason Shinn
Divorce and separation Attorney | Aug 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I trust Wendy's professional judgment in the areas of family and divorce law and have provided her as a reference to clients in need of such expertise. She is a very knowledgeable, honest, and dedicated attorney."
Katie Kennedy Bologna headshot
Katie Bologna
Family Attorney | Feb 19
Relationship: Co-worker
"Wendy practices law with the utmost integrity and dedication to her clients. I am a better attorney and better person for having worked under her leadership."
Caitlin Hofmann headshot
Caitlin Hofmann
Family Attorney | Feb 18
Relationship: Co-worker
"Wendy's professionalism and dedication to her clients is what motivated me to join the firm. She is an accomplished attorney, an excellent mentor and a compassionate woman."
Samantha J. Ball headshot
Samantha Ball
Family Attorney | Jan 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I had the distinct pleasure of working with Wendy Alton years ago. I have always admired her dedication to excellence and the resourcefulness she employs in representing her clients. I never hesitate to contact her with regard to family law issues as I trust her input and advice on even the most delicate issues. I would certainly recommend her work!"
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Ann Arbor Divorce and separation Lawyer Wendy S. Alton
Wendy S. Alton
Divorce and separation Attorney
Ann Arbor, MI
Licensed for 20 years
Free Consultation
Virtual consultation available
(734) 388-4609 Message Website