Best Divorce Lawyers Fort wayne
Michael A. Setlak
Divorce Lawyers
Mike began practicing law in 2002 in Fort Wayne and the surrounding counties. Mike has focused his scope of legal practice to all issues involving family law, which include dissolution, post-dissolution modifications, child support matters, parenting time, custody, paternity, guardianships, and adoption.
In Mike’s family law practice, like Perry, he also strongly emphasizes the benefits of working toward a well-crafted settlement (usually time and money). While Mike encourages his clients to work toward a successful agreement, he also understands that some matters will just not settle (for various reasons), and that it is necessary to take the matter to trial. With over 15 years of litigation experience, Mike is confident in his abilities inside the Courtroom and the preparation that is required to assist his clients in meeting their goals. Mike is committed and focused to provide his clients, along with Perry’s clients, the attention they require and deserve. After meeting with Mike, you will understand and appreciate the dedication he has for you and the willingness and desire to see that your legal needs are met.
When Mike is not assisting his clients, he is spending time with his family. He is also an avid outdoorsman and escapes to the tranquility of woods and water during his limited free time. In addition to enjoying nature, Mike loves to attend baseball games and to support his favorite team, the Chicago Cubs. In addition to following the Cubs, Mike roots for and backs all Chicago sport teams.
Shannon Connors
Divorce Lawyers
I was raised in Grabill, Indiana, where I graduated from Leo High School in 2012. I received my B.A. Degree from Purdue University in 2016 and my Law Degree from Indiana University, Robert H. Mckinney School of Law in 2019. While in law school, I was a member of the Re-Entry Assistance and Community Help (REACH) team and President of the Environmental Law Society. I was also honored to be selected for the Sagamore Inn of Court Fellowship where I spent some time in London, England learning their legal system. In addition, I was a legal intern for a summer with the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C.
After graduating from Law School, I worked for Tippecanoe County in Lafayette, Indiana where I served as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney until April of 2021. I am currently an Associate Attorney for Shambaugh, Kast, Beck and Williams, LLP.
I am a member of the Allen County, Indiana and American Bar Associations. My primary areas of interest and practice are Family Law and Estate Planning.
And I spend most of my time chasing my two dogs, including my new corgi puppy.
EDUCATION
Indiana University School of Law, Indianapolis, Indiana
J.D. 2019
Purdue University
B.A. magna cum laude – 2016
BAR ADMISSIONS
Indiana, 2020
U.S. District Court Northern District of Indiana, 2020
U.S. District Court Southern District of Indiana, 2020
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS & MEMBERSHIPS
American Bar Association
Indiana State Bar Association
Allen County Bar Association
Tippecanoe County, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, 2020-2021
Randall J. Hammond
Divorce Lawyers
After graduation from law school, Mr. Hammond served as a judical law clerk for the Allen Superior Court. Since 1982, he has been in general private practice and an Allen County Public Defender. His private practice areas include criminal (state and federal, felony and misdemeanor, traffic and expungement), family law (divorce, paternity, custody, child support, and adoption), peronsal injury-accident claims, estate planning (wills, living wills, power of attorney, and probate), general civil cases including plaintiff and defense. He has participated in numerous jury trials over the past 35+ years including the first defense of a request for life without parole on a murder charge. He has been appointed as lead counsel on four capital (death penalty) cases. For several years, he served as the Allen County Chief Public Defender and a Federal Court Public Defender. Mr. Hammond’s primary practice areas are criminal defense and family law and new claims are always welcome.
Bar Admissions
- Indiana, 1981
- U.S. District Court Northern District of Indiana
Other Affiliations
- Allen County Bar Association, Board of Directors
- Indiana State Bar Association
- National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Allen County Child Advocacy Center, Board Member
- Alcohol Abuse Deterrent Program, Board Member
- Allen County Community Corrections, Board Member
Honors
- Fort Wayne Monthly “Top Lawyers” Trial Practice, Criminal Defense since 2012
- Rated AV Preeminent the highest Martindale Hubbell rating since 2013
- Named Best Attorneys in Indiana since 2013
Practice Areas
- Criminal Law
- Mediation
- Civil Law (both Plaintiff and Defense)
- Family Law
- Personal Injury
- Estate Planning
Education
- Valparaiso University School of Law, Valparaiso, Indiana
- J.D. – 1981
- Valparaiso University
- B.S. – 1978
EMILY SZCZEPKOWSKI
Divorce Lawyers
Born and raised in Fort Wayne, Emily is a graduate of Bishop Dwenger High School. She received her B.A. from Purdue University, West Lafayette and earned her J.D. from Indiana University Maurer School of Law, Bloomington. Emily was admitted to the Indiana Bar in 2015 and began practicing in Fort Wayne, ready to give back to the community that has given her so much. Emily started as a staff attorney for the Department of Child Services before moving to private practice. As an associate attorney for a private firm, Emily centered her practice on family law.
These matters included dissolution and post-dissolution matters, paternity, child support, and parenting time. From there, Emily switched gears, digging into estate planning and estate administration. Emily has since returned to family law, ready to assist you in all of your domestic relations needs.
Outside of the office, you can find Emily spending time with her family. If you catch sight of them, you’ll probably see Emily and her husband chasing after their three young sons and lab mix.
Tandra S. Johnson
Divorce Lawyers
Tandra offers her clients the legal skill and experience to effectively advocate on their behalf to aggressively protect their rights and interests. What’s more, Tandra’s educational background provides her clients with a unique perspective that assists them in successfully resolving family law matters with their familial relationships intact and with practical agreements tailored to the specific domestic situation of each family.
PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY AFFILIATIONS:
- Member of the Allen County, Indiana State, and American Bar Associations
- Member of Family Law Section of the Allen County Bar Association
- Indiana State Nurses Association
Joshua D. Byanski
Divorce Lawyers
Education
- Indiana Tech Law School, Fort Wayne, Indiana
- J.D.
- Honors: Dean’s List
- Indiana University – Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne, Indiana
- B.A. – 2014
- Major: Legal Studies – Criminal Justice
Past Position
- Grant County Prosecutor’s Office, Deputy Prosecutor, 2017 to 2018
- DeKalb County Prosecutor’s Office, Deputy Prosecutor, 2015 to 2022
Stephen P. Rothberg
Divorce Lawyers
Practice areas
- Alternative Dispute Resolution (A.D.R.)
(Including Mediation and Arbitration) - Appellate Practice
- Business and Professional Practice Valuation
- Child Custody and Related Child Care Matter
(Including visitation/parenting time) - Child Support and Related Children’s Financial Issues
- Complex Property Evaluation and Distribution
- Divorce/Dissolution of Marriage/Domestic Partnerships/Cohabitation
- Maintenance/Alimony
- Negotiated Settlements
- Parentage/Paternity Cases
- Parental Relocation
- Post-Decree Disputes/Enforcement
- Prenuptial/Antenuptial Agreements
Bar admissions
- Indiana, 1970
Distinctions
- Indiana Super Lawyer (selected multiple times, most recently 2018)
- Named in Fort Wayne Monthly Magazine 2012 Top Lawyers
- Presenter/Faculty at multiple continuing legal education conferences
- Has secured precedent setting rulings from Indiana Court of Appeals and Indiana Supreme Court on multiple occasions
Certifications
- Certified Family Law Specialist (Certified by the Family Law Certification Board)
- Registered as a mediator since Alternative Dispute Resolution Rules first adopted in Indiana
Education
- J.D., Indiana University (Bloomington), 1970
- B.A., Indiana University (Bloomington), 1966
Having the best divorce lawyer in Fort Wayne, or any location for that matter, can be crucial for several reasons:
Legal Expertise: A skilled divorce lawyer in Fort Wayne will have extensive knowledge of Indiana’s family law statutes, local court procedures, and judges’ tendencies. This expertise is invaluable in navigating the legal complexities of divorce.
Protecting Your Interests: A top divorce lawyer will work to ensure your rights and interests are safeguarded throughout the divorce process. They’ll advocate for fair asset division, spousal support (if applicable), and custody arrangements (if children are involved).
Objective Guidance: Emotions often run high during a divorce. A seasoned attorney can provide an objective perspective, helping you make rational decisions and avoid impulsive choices that may have long-term consequences.
Negotiation and Advocacy Skills: Many divorces are resolved through negotiation. A skilled lawyer will be an effective negotiator, working to secure the best possible outcome for you in terms of property division, alimony, child support, and custody arrangements.
Understanding of Local Procedures: A lawyer who practices in Fort Wayne will be familiar with the local courts, judges, and specific procedures. This local knowledge can be a significant advantage in predicting how your case may be handled.
Emotional Support: In addition to their legal expertise, a good divorce lawyer can offer emotional support during what is often a challenging and emotionally charged period.
As for the impact of divorce on spouses, it can be profound and multifaceted. Here are some common effects:
Emotional Distress: Divorce is often associated with a range of emotions including sadness, anger, anxiety, and grief. It can be a deeply emotional and stressful experience.
Financial Changes: Divorce can result in significant financial adjustments. This may include changes in income, property ownership, and the division of assets and debts.
Parenting and Custody Concerns: If there are children involved, divorce can lead to changes in custody arrangements, visitation schedules, and co-parenting dynamics. This can be emotionally challenging for both parents and children.
Social and Support Network Changes: Divorce can lead to shifts in social circles and support networks. Friends and family members may take sides or relationships may change as a result of the divorce.
Changes in Living Situation: One or both spouses may need to find new housing arrangements, which can be a significant logistical and emotional adjustment.
Legal and Administrative Responsibilities: There are legal processes and paperwork associated with divorce that can be time-consuming and emotionally draining.
Impact on Mental and Physical Health: The stress of divorce can take a toll on mental and physical well-being. It’s important to prioritize self-care during this period.
Potential for Fresh Start: While divorce is undoubtedly challenging, it can also represent an opportunity for a fresh start and a chance to build a new, fulfilling life.
It’s important for individuals going through a divorce to seek emotional support, whether from friends, family, or professional counselors, in addition to legal guidance.