Your Family Law Navigator

Our Leadership is Your Advantage

Banfield Couling Law and Mediation was voted the Best Law Firm in Livingston County in 2021 and Best Divorce Attorney in Livingston County in 2020 and 2021. We are experienced leaders in the area of Michigan divorce and family law, using the best of collaborative and traditional approaches to help clients navigate toward thoughtful solutions. We strive to keep important family law decisions in the hands of our clients by offering the broadest possible range of legal options to obtain their goals.

Our Perspective

Family matters. From the most intensely litigated cases to the most thoughtful out-of-court settlements, we seek to produce solutions rather than create unnecessary conflict for your family.  We have profound respect for our clients and the role we play in one of the most difficult chapters of their lives.

Complex and High Asset Cases

In difficult and high asset cases, our attorneys’ extensive professional experience and training provide the basis for tailoring comprehensive, forward looking outcomes for each client.  We have the proven experience and professional resources to effectively navigate financial issues in a substantive yet cost-effective manner.

Streamline Divorce℠

For clients with amicable and less complex cases, we developed the Streamline Divorce℠ system.  Streamline Divorce℠ is a three-stage, form-based process unique to Banfield Couling.  By utilizing our proven form-based system, Clients reduce costs by working through the settlement process with their spouse utilizing our forms, with the assurance that their agreement will be reviewed by an experienced attorney and your court matter will be handled with professionalism and care.  Flat fees can apply. 

Our Mission

To assist each client in making informed decisions and achieving the best results for that client’s unique circumstances.  We offer an unparalleled range of approaches to match each client’s needs with the most helpful and cost-effective options for him or her.

Uniquely Qualified

We are uniquely qualified to handle your case with the optimal combination of personal attention, integrity and efficiency needed during your difficult time.  Each of our lawyers are qualified in both Mediation and Collaborative Divorce law and have decades of experience in the courts in a multi-county area. We are handling mediation online using the Zoom platform to offer our client prompt and efficient service.

 “A La Carte” and LSR Services

Our attorneys frequently handle matters on an a la carte or Limited Scope basis (also known as serving as an “LSR attorney” or “LSR lawyer.”)  Limited scope representation can be utilized at any stage:  before an action is filed; during a pending action; and after a judgment has been entered.   In addition, limited scope services frequently are appropriate for the Streamline Divorce℠ process. When a client’s case “nearly” fits the Streamline Divorce℠ format, it is possible to use our a la carte services to avoid litigation by retaining our professional assistance to help navigate more complex issues in the most cost-effective manner. 

Geographical Areas

We are based in Livingston County, Michigan and actively serve clients in Genesee, Oakland and Washtenaw counties on a regular basis.  All or part of our Streamline Divorce℠ process is available on a state-wide basis.  For mediation and litigation matters, we represent clients outside of our main geographical areas of practice on a case-by-case basis. 

OUR FREE BOOK:
"Navigating Divorce in Michigan: Options to Know Before You File”

Written By:
Denise Couling & Jamie O'Brien

Updated to address the new MICHIGAN filing options, this guide to divorce and family law helps you make the best possible choices AT THE OUTSET.