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Michael H. Cutler

Family Attorney at Farmington Hills, MI

4.8   87 reviews
Free consultation
Free consultation
  • Licensed for 32 years
    State MI
    Acquired 1991
    Status
    Active in Good Standing No misconduct found

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

About Michael

Learn Michael’s areas of practice.

4
Practice areas
  1. Divorce and separation
    40%
    In my career, I have handled over 1000 divorces from start to finish. I treat all those involved in your divorce with respect. When necessary, I have the tools to bring your matter directly before the court to obtain the results you need.

    33 years, 1,000 cases

  2. Family
    40%
    I have experience in handling all matters within the family law realm, not just divorce. Child support, custody, changes of domicile hearings are all within my range of competence.

    33 years, 1,000 cases

  3. Litigation
    10%
    My practice has included complex civil litigation with multiple parties, accidents, and other civil disputes covering a wide range of issues. I have represented clients through out the State of Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, North Carolina and Antigua.

    33 years, 1,000 cases

  4. Probate
    10%
    My practice includes probate litigation, challenges to the validity of will/trusts, Estate planning, guardianships, conservatorships, as well as handleing other matters before the Probate Courts throughout the State of Michigan.

    33 years, 1,000 cases

WE CAN ASSIST YOU IN YOUR FAMILY CRISIS WITH UNCOMMON DEDICATION AND COMPASSION

I regularly appear befor the Trial Courts in Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, Wayne, and have handled numerous cases in neighboring counties  (Bay, Genesee, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Kent, Lenawee, and Monroe).

Admitted to the United States District Court  on Februray 3rd, 1994

Admitted to the United States Court of Appeals on October 31, 2005

Nominated to "SUPER LAWYERS" in March, 2020

Awards

Client's Choice 2017,2016,2015,2014,2013,2012,2011
Client's Choice
2017 2016 2015 + 4 ...
Top Contributor 2012
Top Contributor
2012

Photos and videos

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Contact Michael

Cutler and Associates, P.C.
38275 W 12 Mile Rd, Suite #102
Farmington Hills, MI, 48331
Michael H. Cutler
www.cutlerlawyers.com
Farmington Hills, MI
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Reviews

4.8 / 5.0
  87 customer reviews
Client's Choice 2017
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 Dubravko Vukmirovic | January 16, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional as always.
Mr. Cutler in 2 full days of court in front of judge showed following characters: calm, rational, prepared (evidence, etc.), following on opposite side and questioning back, very polite and kept his manners. His staff was polite and professional too. He is the attorney that will fight for you in a peaceful rational manner suggesting next steps and protecting your interest between you and opposite side keeping in mind 3rd party (kids, etc.). Very happy.
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Posted by David M | April 8, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Extremely Thorough and Professional
I wanted to expressed by gratitude to Michael Cutler in helping me get through a difficult out of state divorce. When I was told I needed to talk to an attorney I immediately went on the AVVO site. I had no idea who I should contact so I started scrolling through pages until I came across Michael Cutler. I read his reviews and reached out to him for his help. From day one of my initial meeting until that day my divorce was finalized he made sure that I wasn't alone during the whole divorce process. When I mentioned that this was an out of state divorce, Michael went and represented me when I was unable to be there. He continued to communicate with me through emails, phone and letters and his staff was outstanding in providing fast results. Michael has gone over and beyond what an attorney would normally do for a client and I am eternally grateful. If you need a great divorce attorney I would highly recommend Michael Cutler.
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Posted by anonymous | November 22, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Client
Michael will fight for you, be direct, and not let the other side take advantage. I would highly recommend Cutler and associates.
Posted by Anagh | December 21, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank you Mr. Cutler
Mr. Cutler is very professional and proficient. I always had full trust on him and was not disappointed throughout the process of my divorce, which could have been longer and more complicated and could have more severely affected my children and myself. I give my full and unreserved recommendation for his legal representation to anyone who is facing divorce.
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Posted by Jerry | November 13, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding Service!
Michael provided an outstanding service for me in a very difficult time and the divorce I went thru. I highly recommend Michael to assist anyone who needs help.
Posted by Dennis | October 7, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top-notch professionalism
My only regret is that I spent many months and countless dollars to end up at an impasse with a bargain “amicable” divorce attorney prior to finding Mr. Cutler. I would without hesitation recommend Mr. Cutler to any of my close friends and family. His decades of experience, efficient discussion and actions when needed, and professional demeanor gave me the utmost of confidence that my case was being taken care of appropriately. Don’t make the same mistake I did by looking for a bargain. Court battles are a long process. You will appreciate having, as I most certainly have, the experience and professionalism of Mr. Cutler.
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Posted by Mohamed | February 25, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Family Lawyer
Michael is simply great. My ex falsely accused me of many things, was being unreasonable and very demanding. I interviewed 3 other attorneys but Michael was simply the best. He listened to me, explained things very well and actually heard everything I said. Michael was very responsive and on top of things. He stuck to the point and knew what he was doing. He was very professional and took the time to talk to me about the case and my concerns every step of the way. His advise was spot on and he explained how things will work out and the expectations beautifully. He was firm with the opposition and provided the right line in the sand when needed. When my ex refused to follow the JOD and court orders, he followed up with all the necessary actions to ensure that my rights are honored. I would recommend Michael to any one for family law issues in a heart beat. Just be honest and upfront with him.
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Posted by Karolina | May 21, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I got the best lawyer.
I highly recommend Attorney Michael . I was blessed. God put him on my path .He was 100 % dedicated to my case. His team were really nice and professional.
Posted by Sonja | March 7, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Well done
I felt well represented by Michael Cutler. He was fair in his dealings, showed ethics, and respected my wishes.
Posted by Greg | December 17, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Many Years of Professionalism and Integrity
I've owned a Remodeling Company for forty-five years, thirty of which I've known Michael, and who has been my legal council. On occasion, I have needed his services to protect my reputation and right the wrongs, that unscrupulous clients have attempted to inflict upon my company. I can think of no one better than Michael, to represent, on my behalf. It's a good feeling to be on the "winning" side of the equation.
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Posted by Steven | August 22, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Navigated through difficult waters
Michael is a exceptional lawyer who blends the knowledge and professionalism you need with the care you want. Going though a divorce is never easy, but Michael helped me navigate through difficult waters and keep the process on track. When the opposing side wanted to add complexity to the process he worked with opposition counsel, and helped me reach out to my (now) ex-wife and communicate with her more productively. The final settlement was a fair and was without wasted time and energy. Thank you Michael.
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Posted by Jamal | June 22, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce made simple
Mr. Cutler was always prepared, always up beat and honest. Kept me balanced thru the toughest time in my life
Posted by Warren | January 8, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce
I recently used Michael Cutler for my divorce and I was very pleased with the way he handled everything. If you're looking for an honest person who also understands the process, Michael Cutler should be your guy. As a business owner, I believe that the success of any business lies in choosing the right person for the job. If you are getting a divorce, Michael Cutler is undoubtedly that person.
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Posted by Anja | October 27, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Michael is a professional, trustworthy, ethical and responsive attorney
I hired Michael regarding a divorce case. He and his associates are very responsive and helpful. Michael is very ethical and explained to me well what requests to the opposing council would be reasonable and what most likely to expect. Michel was strongly pursuing my interest during this lengthy divorce process (the courts are very busy). He watched out for my best interest during mediation and I was rewarded the items I was looking for. Mike opened up the door for me to a fresh start in life and I thank him for that. I definitely recommend hiring him.
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Posted by Jim | August 30, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding!!!
Michael is thorough and timely. I had no issues during my divorce. He handled my case with care, and kept my best interests at heart. I would highly recommend him to anyone going through divorce. He is a true professional. I definitely got my moneys worth!
Posted by Robert Bowman | April 19, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Results!
Attorney Michael Cutler represented me in a complicated divorce case. He is definitely someone you want on your side to help you through. He was always available on the phone/email and respond to my queries promptly. I was able to get more time with my children and financials was settled very favorably on my side. I highly recommend him.
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Response from Michael Cutler August 14, 2017
Robert, it was a long and winding road that we traveled. Frustrating mediation meetings, proposals and counter-proposals, finally ending with a lengthy trial. I believe that the Court did a good job with these tough issues, and we were able to finally secure your Judgment, over opposing counsel's objections.. It was great to see the expression of relief on your face. Although, I expect a few post-judgment motions, I was glad to see you move on to the next chapter of life.
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Posted by anonymous | February 7, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent hardworking professional that gets results
I hired Mr. Cutler's firm to represent me in a divorce case. Mr. Cutler represented me very well. The other side was extremely contentious and difficult, with an equally contentious and difficult attorney. Towards the end of the initial case, we attempted reconciliation and dropped the case. It became clear after some time that reconciliation simply wasn't possible, and I retained Mr. Cutler's services for the second case. I would not hesitate to ask his firm for representation for any future needs if any arise. Mr. Cutler defended my fatherhood rights and secured joint custody for me. Throughout the process, Mr. Cutler was fair, reasonable and calm at all times, in and out of court. When the other side was reasonable, he was reasonable. When they were not, he fought for me and my rights, securing several decisions in my favor. He worked long and late hours to secure a settlement agreement that I can live with and accept. Considering the contentiousness that I faced from the other side, the outcome was far better than my anticipated best case outcome. Mr. Cutler served me very well and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend his firm.
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Posted by Alan | December 8, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Solid Legal Counsel
Michael worked with me over a two year period, he was ethical and level headed throughout, while opposing counsel was not and dragged everything out in our case. He coached and advised as I needed it. It's my opinion he's quite capable of providing solid legal counsel.
Posted by Sara | August 22, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding Attorney
A caring, dedicated and excellent attorney to have represent me in a messy post- divorce matter. He was reassuring during our initial consultation and made me feel at ease with the entire process. As I was an out-of-state client , he kept me involved and updated. Michael spoke out for what he believed to the truth, fairness and honesty, keeping in mind the mistakes the agencies made in dealing with crucial matters. I am very happy with the results and highly recommend him to all.
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Posted by Joseph | July 12, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Helped me with unemployment case
I never knew I had a problem with a 2009 unemployment fraud case until they took my 2015 tax return of 18k!Mr Cutler helped me clear my name and helped me recover all of the money the Michigan Unemployment Agency took for no reason it took almost 1.5 years but Mr Cutler was relentless in his efforts to help clear my name and in Helping me recover my Money that was owed to me !The decision was reversed and I would Recommend His services to anyone!He is a true professional and takes great pride in his work and helping his clients to the end ! Joseph
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Cost

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

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Cutler and Associates, p.c.
  • 1997 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Gordon, Cutler & Hoffman
  • 1991 - 1997
  • Judical Clerk
  • Oakland County Circuit Court
  • 1989 - 1990
  • law clerk
  • Beacon & Hill, p.c in Boston, MA
  • 1988 - 1988
View all work experience

Education

  • Tulane University Law School
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1990
  • University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
  • Bachelors - honors received
  • 1986

Legal Cases

  • In The Matter of Rebecca Clemence
  • objecting sibling's claims were dismissed as no proof of either of their claims were substantiated
  • Real Estate Fraud - Detroit News Article
  • Secured Judgment against some defendants and collected money from others
  • Fraud Claims
  • http://detnews.com/article/20090606/METRO/906060334/Detroit-businessman-Rayford-Jackson-accused-of-fraud
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Super Lawyers - family law
  • Admitted
  • 2020 - Present
  • SuperLawyers
  • member
  • 2020 - Present
  • Ohio State Bar
  • Admitted to Practice - pro hac vice
  • 2017 - Present
  • Western District Federal Court
  • admitted
  • 2011 - Present
  • United States Court of Appeals
  • Admitted
  • 2005 - Present
  • Oakland County Bar Association
  • Appointed Circuit Court Mediator
  • 2002 - Present
  • Oakland County Bar Association
  • Appointed District Court Mediator
  • 2002 - Present
  • Washtenaw County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1997 - Present
  • Oakland County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1991 - Present
  • State Bar of Michigan
  • Member
  • 1991 - Present
  • North Carolina state Bar
  • Admitted to Practice - pro hac vice
  • 2004 - 2005
  • Walnut Lake Association
  • Chair elect - Legal Department
  • 2000 - 2006
  • Association of Trial Lawyers of America
  • Member
  • 1993 - 1997
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • granted membership
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2020
  • pro hac vice - Sandusky County, Ohio
  • pro hac vice
  • 2019
  • pro hac vice - Sandusky County, Ohio
  • pro hac vice
  • 2018
  • pro hac vice - Sandusky county, Ohio
  • pro hac vice
  • 2017
  • pro hac vice - North Carolina Courts
  • pro hac vice
  • 2013
  • Admitted
  • Western District Court of Michigan
  • 2011
  • Admitted
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit
  • 2005
  • Appointment as Mediator - Wayne County
  • Mediation Tribunal Association
  • 2004
  • Appointment as Mediator - Oakland County
  • Oakland County Bar Association
  • 2002
  • Appointment as Mediator - Washtenaw County
  • Washtenaw County Bar Association
  • 2001
  • moot court judge
  • Washtenaw County Bar Association
  • 2000
  • Admitted
  • U.S. District Court - Eastern District
  • 1994
  • Pro Bono Award
  • Oakland County Bar Association
  • 1992
  • certificate of recognition
  • Oakland County Bar Association
  • 1992
  • pro hac vice
  • pro hac vice - Antigua Island
  • N/A
  • pro hac vice
  • pro hac vice - Illinois state Courts
  • N/A
  • pro hac vice
  • pro hac vice - Ohio state Courts
  • N/A
View all awards

Publications

  • The Detroit News
  • Court to Decide if bagger is disabled
  • 2000
  • Extra - Television Show
  • disabilities case
  • 2000
  • world News Tonight with Peter Jennings
  • Disabilities Case
  • 2000
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Fremont Courthouse
  • Developments in Divorce
  • 2019
  • BNI
  • Divorce procedures and processes
  • 2019
  • Michigan Yearly Lawyers Seminar
  • Divorce - New Procedures and Practices
  • 2011
  • regiional conference
  • The Process of Divorce
  • 2010
  • Reginal Conferecnce
  • Divorce and sucessful discovery strategies
  • 2010
  • Michigan Yearly Lawyers Seminar
  • Developments in Domestic Practice
  • 2010
  • BNI
  • Divorce Procedures
  • 2007
  • BNI
  • employment discrimination and the work place
  • 2006
  • interviewed and discussion
  • civil rights issues
  • 2000
  • World news tonight
  • pending litigation involving client's case
  • 2000
  • Oakland Country Bar Assoc - employment law division
  • whistle blowers claims
  • 2000
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (23)
Given (12)
Endorse Michael
Family Attorney | Jan 24
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Mike and I are about to wrap up a divorce with minor children. He has been a very worthy opponent, yet remained reasonable in his approach. I would not hesitate to recommend him to family or friends if they were in need of legal services."
Personal injury Attorney | Jul 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have been referring Mr. Cutler work for approximately 10 years. After about 5 years worth of consistent positive feedback from my clients. I decided to hire Mr. Cutler for my own personal legal issues. What a great attorney! He is effective, efficient, aggressive and highly respected by the courts and other attorneys in the area. Essentially, he treated me like his own family. I endorse him with the highest possible confidence."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Feb 01
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I've gone up against Mike several times over the years. His representation of his clients is always dedicated and sharply professional. He's consistently courteous with other attorneys and with the courts. His excellent reputation is well-deserved. Whenever I have Mike on the other side, I have to bring my absolute A-game."
Litigation Attorney | Mar 12
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have worked with Michael Cutler. I found him to be honest, persistent and aggressive. I would not hesitate to refer people to Mr. Cutler and would feel comfortable knowing they are in good hands."
Probate Attorney | Jul 07
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I had an opportunity to work with Mr. Cutler on a complex probate matter during which he proved himself to be a very skilled and capable attorney. Additionally, throughout litigation, Mr. Cutler showed a real respect for his client, the court and the law under all circumstances no matter how contentious or difficult."
Family Attorney | Jul 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have been a family law mediator for the last 16 years and I have mediated dozens of cases with attorney Michael Culter. I find Mr. Cutler always prepared, on time, and an excellent representative for his clients. I would highly recommend attorney Michael Cutler in any Family Law matter. His office support staff is always cooperative, organized, and works well with my office staff. Ralph K. Mayers"
Divorce and separation Attorney | Nov 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Honest advice, practical answers on AVVO. He is a skilled and concerned advocate for his clients."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Aug 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Cutler is an exceptional attorney. I have been an attorney for 24 years and served as a judge, magistrate, prosecutor, law professor, and private attorney. However, even with all of that experience, I learn from his answers on Avvo each and every day. If you have the chance, hire him in an instant."
Litigation Attorney | Jan 15
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Dec 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Cutler is an outstanding attorney with an exceptional reputation. He is a strong and zealous advocate for his clients and a credit to the legal profession. I highly recommend his legal services."
Litigation Attorney | Oct 23
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I briefly worked opposing Michael on a case in 2007. He was knowledgeable, professional and just a very good attorney."
Unknown Attorney | Apr 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Business Attorney | Jan 12
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Michael Culter is an excellent lawyer you can trust that he will fight for your case. He always works diligently to get the best results for his clients."
Child custody Attorney | Nov 17
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Cutler and I have been involved in a very high conflict divorce matter. During this process I have found Mr. Cutler to be a fierce advocate as well as very honest and ethical. I would feel comfortable sending my own family members to Michael Cutler."
Family Attorney | Aug 22
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. While attorneys can get combative on these matters it was a pleasure to work with Michael."
Family Attorney | Apr 28
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I have found Mr. Cutler to be thorough and tenacious, but always professional."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Apr 27
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. He did a very good job for his client. He was a very worthy adversary."
Family Attorney | Mar 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He gives sound legal advice and is an asset to this profession."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Mar 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Cutler does good work. He is a credit to the profession."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Mar 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have had several cases with Michael over the past 15 years. I always find him to be a well prepared and passionate advocate for his clients. He is well versed in the law and works toward the best solution for his client."
View more endorsements
Divorce and separation
Workers compensation
Bankruptcy and debt
DUI and DWI
Divorce and separation
Divorce and separation
Criminal defense
Divorce and separation
Criminal defense
Estate planning
Criminal defense