Wendy Alton Family Law & Mediation

Wendy Alton Family Law & Mediation represents a distinctive approach to family law, focusing exclusively on out-of-court resolution processes while bringing trial attorney expertise. Based in Ann Arbor, Wendy S. Alton has earned recognition as one of Michigan's top family law attorneys through nearly two decades of dedicated practice in divorce, mediation, and collaborative divorce. Her unique combination of trial background, mediation expertise, and collaborative divorce certification creates a powerful resource for families seeking resolution without litigation.

Wendy S. Alton brought the foundation for her legal career through strong academic preparation. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Michigan-Dearborn in 1998, and then pursued law at Wayne State University Law School, earning her Juris Doctor in 2002. Throughout her legal career, she has continued professional development, earning her Family Law Certificate from the Institute of Continuing Legal Education in 2022, demonstrating ongoing commitment to staying current with family law developments.

Alton brings nearly two decades of experience in family law practice. During this time, she has earned recognition as a Super Lawyers' Rising Star—a distinction given to only 2.5% of lawyers in Michigan. This elite recognition reflects Alton's exceptional legal abilities, peer respect, and demonstrated expertise in family law.

What particularly distinguishes Wendy Alton's practice is her deliberate focus on out-of-court resolution processes. Rather than defaulting to litigation, Alton has built a practice entirely dedicated to helping families reach negotiated settlements, mediated agreements, and collaborative divorce solutions. This focused approach reflects her philosophy that litigation is often not in families' best interests and that collaborative resolution typically produces better outcomes, lower costs, and less ongoing conflict.

Alton's trial attorney background is significant. While she now focuses on out-of-court resolution, her experience as a trial attorney means she understands litigation thoroughly and can effectively prepare clients for potential courtroom outcomes. This insider knowledge of litigation makes her more effective in negotiations; she understands how judges approach cases, what strategies are effective, and what likely outcomes would be if litigation occurred. This knowledge often encourages reasonable settlement negotiations.

Alton has been a Certified Divorce and Custody Mediator since 2009, reflecting more than a decade of specialized mediation training and experience. Mediation is a collaborative process where a neutral professional helps parties reach agreement. In mediation, parties maintain control over outcomes, costs are typically lower than litigation, and the process often preserves important relationships. Alton's long history in mediation means deep expertise in helping families resolve disputes cooperatively.

Since 2020, Alton has been a Certified Collaborative Divorce Attorney. Collaborative divorce is a specific process where each party retains a trained collaborative attorney and the parties commit to negotiated resolution rather than litigation. If negotiations fail, both attorneys must withdraw, discouraging litigation and encouraging serious settlement efforts. Alton's certification in this specialized process reflects additional training and commitment to collaborative approaches.

Alton's practice encompasses family law matters spanning the entire divorce process. She helps families with initial divorce decisions, parenting time and child custody arrangements, child support determinations, spousal support and alimony matters, and property division. She also handles post-judgment matters that arise after divorce is finalized, including modifications of custody or support when circumstances change.

Parenting time and child custody arrangements represent a significant focus of Alton's practice. She understands that custody decisions profoundly affect children and families. Her approach emphasizes creating parenting arrangements that serve children's best interests and allow both parents meaningful involvement in children's lives. Rather than viewing parenting time as a zero-sum battle, she helps families develop arrangements that honor both parents' important roles.

Child support determinations are handled with careful attention to Michigan law and each family's specific circumstances. Alton ensures that support obligations are fair, properly calculated, and sustainable over time.

Spousal support and alimony matters are approached with attention to economic fairness and the purposes that spousal support serves. Alton helps families understand the financial implications of various support arrangements and reach agreements that are equitable and sustainable.

Property division is handled with careful attention to identifying marital property, understanding asset values, and achieving fair division. While Alton focuses on negotiated resolution, she has the knowledge to address complex property division issues effectively.

Alton's professional memberships reflect her standing and commitment to the family law community. She is a member of the Collaborative Practice Institute of Michigan, demonstrating active involvement in advancing collaborative approaches to family law. She is also a member of the Washtenaw County Bar Association, reflecting engagement with the local legal community.

Alton's office in Ann Arbor, with availability for Zoom consultations, demonstrates her commitment to accessibility. Recognizing that families juggle work, childcare, and other responsibilities, Alton offers flexible consultation options. The ability to meet via Zoom means that clients can consult from home or work, accommodating busy schedules.

Wendy Alton Family Law & Mediation's approach to family law is refreshingly centered on what serves families best. Rather than defaulting to litigation, Alton has built a practice dedicated to helping families reach agreement through mediation and collaborative divorce. This focused approach, combined with trial attorney expertise and multiple mediation certifications, creates representation that truly serves families' interests.

Whether you're considering divorce, navigating custody and support issues, or seeking mediation or collaborative divorce services, Wendy Alton brings nearly two decades of experience, Super Lawyers recognition, multiple specialized certifications, and genuine commitment to helping your family resolve disputes cooperatively. Contact her at 734-673-3567 or visit wendyaltonlaw.com to schedule your consultation.