Best Divorce Lawyers Madison wi
Abigail Henderson
Divorce Lawyers
Abigail fiercely advocates for her clients because she is passionate about helping others. Like many, Abigail knew she had this passion at a young age. During her undergraduate, she searched for paths to develop this passion, tutoring English language learners, mentoring at-risk youth, and volunteering with organizations that support victims of domestic violence. It was this final path that led her to law school and finally family law.
Abigail’s work as the legal advocacy intern with the Harbor House Domestic Abuse Program taught her the true role of any legal advocate. She worked with people in tough, emotionally charged situations, struggling to get their much-needed restraining orders. As a legal advocate, her role was not to fight for these people, rather, she translated their experiences into something the courts could understand.
To Abigail, an attorney’s role too isn’t just to represent their client, it is to translate for them–to transform their experiences into an argument based in laws and statutes that convinces the court to rule in their favor. A lot of people have a hard time advocating for themselves, especially in front of a judge. Abigail saw this, but she also saw that winning these cases gave them safety and control over their lives. Abigail was pretty sure she wanted to work in family law after this experience, but law school solidified her path.
While at the University of Wisconsin Law School, Abigail worked in the UW Family Court Clinic where she got in-the-trenches family law experience. With six other students and a supervising attorney, she worked on family law cases for people with low incomes. She worked directly with the clients, researching their cases, drafting their documents, and even advocating for them in court. This was her first experience truly diving into family law cases, and it confirmed her desire to work in family law. She loves these cases because she helps families transform their lives for the better. The cases also challenged her to think creatively and critically to best bring her client’s needs to the court.
TRISHA FESTERLING
Divorce Lawyers
Divorce and child custody are huge life events that impact people in deeply emotional and long-lasting ways. The practice of family law is where Trisha feels she was drawn to help people through this difficult period in their lives.
Trisha works to empower her clients. She helps her clients maintain a strong family while moving constantly forward, even at the worst of times. A divorce case lasts only a short while, and it’s important that you are prepared to face your new life at the end of it.
Trisha graduated with honors Magna Cum Laude from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2001 before earning her law (J.D.) degree from Regent University Law School in 2007. Before law school she had already gained substantial legal experience, including helping manage a family law practice.
It was while earning her law degree that Trisha had her first child, and it changed her life forever. It made her understand even greater the importance of family, with children at the center. In her early years of practice, she experienced many areas of law, but ultimately primarily focused on family, helping families since 2007. Trisha has also worked as a Guardian ad Litem in cases, appointed by the court to represent the best interests of the children, which gives her a powerful perspective to guide families going through this process. In addition, she has certified in Mediation and Collaborative Divorce, helping families take a low-conflict and often more cost-effective route through this process.
When Trisha is away from the office, she enjoys spending time with her three children, traveling and appreciating nature. She particularly loves the mountains, and coincidentally met her husband while preparing to summit the 14,000-foot peaks in Colorado.
Knowing that you are backed by a professional legal team in the field of divorce and family law is an incredible asset as you maneuver through the complex legal system. Contact Grieve Law to schedule an appointment now.
Mark F. Borns
Divorce Lawyers
Mark Borns is a 1983 graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison law school. He has been ranked as one of the top family and divorce lawyers in Dane County in a poll of lawyers published by Madison Magazine.Mark has over 30 years of experience representing clients in divorce actions and custody disputes. He has often acted as guardian ad litem representing the interests of children in divorce and juvenile court.
Mark’s areas of practice are divorce, child custody and placement, property division (including gifted and inherited property), maintenance, and child support. Mr. Borns also prepares pre-and postnuptial agreements. He has represented clients before the Wisconsin Court of Appeals and Wisconsin Supreme Court.
In addition to his family law practice, Mark Borns prepares wills and trusts. He represents clients with personal injuries from accidents, and in general civil litigation including business disputes and real estate disputes. He has handled 100’s of criminal cases, both as a prosecutor and as a defense attorney.
Mark Borns has been appointed as a court commissioner. In that capacity he performs weddings and supplemental hearings.
John T. Fields
Divorce Lawyers
John T. Fields is a well-versed attorney who concentrates his practice in the areas of Divorce, Family Law, and Child Custody. Having more than 30 years of legal experience, Attorney Fields works diligently to help individuals and families throughout Wisconsin, including but not limited to Dane County, Rock County, Jefferson County, Dodge County, Sauk County, Columbia County, and Green County. When you need legal help, hire a pitbull who will fight for your rights.
Practice Areas:
- Divorce
- Family Law
- Child Custody
Honors and Awards:
- Elite Lawyer, 2021 – Present
- Expertise.com, Best Divorce Lawyers in Madison, 2023
Emily Wilson
Divorce Lawyers
Emily is originally from Green Bay. She spent her childhood roaming the woods of Northeast Wisconsin and reading everything she could get her hands on. She completed her undergraduate studies in English Literature at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and she decided to become an attorney because she wanted to do what she could to effect positive change in the world. She chose the City University of New York School of Law because of its commitment to social justice and its focus on law in the public interest.
While in law school, she was a research assistant in the areas of family law, constitutional law, and feminist legal theory. She was also a judicial intern for the first Latina justice elected to the New York State Supreme Court. She was a teaching assistant for Evidence class, an Executive Articles Editor of the New York City Law Review and CUNY Law Review, and as part of her clinic work, she represented indigent persons seeking political asylum and cancellation of removal under the Violence Against Women Act. She graduated among the top in her class.
After school, Emily returned home to Wisconsin, where her family lives. She started a solo family law practice in 2013, focusing on divorce, child custody and placement, paternity and support matters for low-income individuals, many of whom were domestic violence survivors. She joined Kowalski, Wilson & Vang, LLC in 2015. She profoundly enjoys and is truly humbled by the work of guiding families through major life transitions.
Outside of work, Emily spends most of her time with her husband Monte and their dog Zelda. She loves to garden, ride her bike, experiment with fermentation, and to cruise around Madison’s beautiful lakes on her stand-up paddleboard.
Timothy S. Riley
Divorce Lawyers
In practice since 1985, Attorney Timothy S. Riley attended the University of Wisconsin at Madison, majoring in Television Production Direction, with a minor in Political Science. He earned his law degree (J. D.) at the University of Wisconsin, School of Law, Madison, Wisconsin in 1985. He is a member of the Wisconsin State Bar, and in the Wisconsin State Bar, Family Law Section. He is also a member of the Board of Directors to the Stoughton Center for Performing Arts.
Timothy S. Riley is married with two children. He was born and raised in Madison, Wisconsin. He now makes his home in Stoughton, Wisconsin. A former professional singer and actor, Timothy has recently directed several musicals for the Stoughton Village Players. His mother, Jean Riley, was a founding member and performer with the Children’s Theatre of Madison.
Being his father’s son, Timothy began skating at about the same time he learned to walk, and he played and coached hockey for years.
Timothy is one of three siblings who are third generation attorneys in the Riley family. His grandfather Miles C. Riley was a Federal Judge (referee) in bankruptcy, the Secretary of Commerce for the State of Wisconsin as well as a distinguished practitioner for several decades. His father John L. Riley was a renowned and highly respected attorney who practiced law for five decades. Incidentally, John L. Riley was also the first hockey coach of the modern era at the University of Wisconsin, Madison and is a member of several Hockey Halls of Fame.
While some might consider this lineage a genetic disease, Tim is proud of his heritage and credits his knowledge of the law, skills as an advocate and legal temperament to his heritage and lessons learned from his family.
Linda S. Balisle
Divorce Lawyers
Attorney Linda S. Balisle is the founder of the Madison law firm of Balisle Family Law Legal Counsel, S.C. She concentrates her practice in the area of divorce mediation, arbitration and, if necessary, litigation for high net worth clients and business owners, as well as complex jurisdictional issues, LGBTQIA+ families, and appellate practice.
Of the many appellate cases she has argued, 17 were published in the case reports, including In re Marriage of LaRocque, 139 Wis. 2d 23 (1987); In re Custody of H.S.H-K., 193 Wis. 2d 649 (1995); In interest of A.E.H., 161 Wis. 2d 277 (1991); Richardson v. Richardson, 139 Wis. 2d 778 (1987); Schwantes v. Schwantes, 121 Wis. 2d 607 (ct. App. 1984); and Roberto v. Brown, 107 Wis. 2d 17 (1982).
Memberships & Associations
Attorney Balisle is licensed to practice law in the State of Wisconsin, the U.S. Federal Western District of Wisconsin, and the U.S. Supreme Court. She is one of two Wisconsin Diplomates of the American College of Family Trial Lawyers (ACTFL). She is a member of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) and served as a past president of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Wisconsin Chapter. She received her J.D. degree, cum laude, from University of Wisconsin in 1979, and taught Family Law, Civil Procedure and Appellate Procedure at her alma mater from 1982-1995.
Attorney Balisle is a member of the American, Wisconsin and Dane County Bar Associations and has been active on several committees in each of those associations, including Chair of the Federal Legislation and Lobbying Task Force of the ABA Family Law Section. She served as the first woman Chair of the Board of Governors of the Wisconsin Bar Association and is a member of the Family Law and Appellate Practice sections. Attorney Balisle served on the Board of the Wisconsin Law Foundation from 1988 to 1995, is a current fellow of the American Bar Foundation and received the Wisconsin Law Foundation’s Belle Case LaFollette award for outstanding service to the profession. She has been listed in the Best Lawyers in America, Martindale Hubbell’s Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers and Super Lawyers for several years. She was recognized as Madison’s Best Family Law Attorney by Best Lawyers in America in 2009 and 2019.
Gregory J. Fumelle
Divorce Lawyers
With 35 years legal experience, Greg is a valuable member of the Wessel, Lehker and Fumelle team.
Greg earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1981 and Juris Doctorate from Western Michigan University Cooley Law School in 1986. He is admitted to practice in the State of Wisconsin, U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Wisconsin, and U.S. Court of Appeals, 7th Circuit. Academic honors include American Jurisprudence Award in Alternative Dispute Resolution and Dean’s List.
Professional memberships Greg maintains include the State Bar of Wisconsin, State Bar Family Law Section and the Dane County Bar Association. He served the Community of Sun Prairie for seven years as Chairperson of the City Board of Zoning Appeals and three years on the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors where he also chaired the Government Affairs Committee.
Greg’s professional focus is in the area of Family Law where he successfully assists clients with divorce, legal separation, paternity, child support, child custody and child placement matters. Greg regularly attends continuing legal education seminars in Family Law.
Greg has extensive trial and appellate experience including representing clients before the Wisconsin Supreme Court and U.S. Court of Appeals. He is proficient in all aspects of civil litigation.
Away from the office, Greg enjoys playing and listening to music, Wisconsin sports, reading, gardening, hiking and biking.
Hiring the best divorce lawyer in Madison, WI, can offer several advantages when navigating a divorce. Here are some benefits of having a skilled divorce attorney on your side:
Legal Expertise: A top divorce lawyer in Madison will have a deep understanding of Wisconsin’s divorce laws and regulations, ensuring that your case is handled in compliance with state statutes and procedures.
Objective Advice: Divorce is an emotionally charged process, making it difficult to make rational decisions. A divorce lawyer can provide objective advice and help you make informed choices about important matters such as property division, alimony, child custody, and child support.
Negotiation Skills: Many divorce cases are resolved through negotiation and settlement rather than going to court. An experienced attorney can negotiate effectively on your behalf to reach a fair and favorable settlement with your spouse, potentially saving you time, money, and emotional stress.
Legal Documentation: Divorce involves a significant amount of paperwork, including legal documents and court filings. A top divorce lawyer will ensure that all necessary documentation is prepared accurately and submitted on time to avoid delays or complications.
Court Representation: If your divorce case does go to court, having a skilled attorney by your side can be invaluable. They will represent your interests effectively before a judge, present your case persuasively, cross-examine witnesses, and advocate for your rights.
Asset Protection: If you have substantial assets or complex financial holdings, a divorce lawyer can help protect your financial interests and ensure a fair division of property in accordance with Wisconsin’s community property laws.
Child Custody and Support: If you have children, a top divorce lawyer will work diligently to secure a fair custody arrangement and child support agreement that is in the best interests of your children.
Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution: Some divorces can be resolved through mediation or alternative dispute resolution methods. A knowledgeable attorney can represent you during these processes and help you reach a mutually acceptable agreement with your spouse.
Post-Divorce Issues: Even after the divorce is finalized, there may be post-divorce issues that arise, such as modification of custody or support orders. Having a trusted attorney can be helpful in addressing these ongoing legal matters.
Now, let’s discuss the impact of divorce on families:
Divorce can have significant and far-reaching effects on all members of the family, including spouses, children, and sometimes even extended family members. Some of the impacts of divorce on family members may include:
Emotional Distress: Divorce often leads to emotional distress for all family members. Spouses may experience feelings of sadness, grief, anger, and anxiety, while children may experience confusion, sadness, and a sense of loss.
Changes in Living Arrangements: Divorce can result in changes in living arrangements for all family members. Children may need to adjust to new living situations, and parents may need to create custody and visitation schedules.
Financial Changes: Divorce can bring about significant financial changes for both spouses and children. There may be changes in income, expenses, and lifestyle.
Co-Parenting Challenges: Co-parenting can be challenging, and disagreements between ex-spouses about parenting decisions and schedules can create stress and tension for all family members.
Impact on Children: Children may experience academic, behavioral, and emotional challenges as they navigate the changes associated with divorce. However, with appropriate support, many children can adapt and thrive.
Extended Family Dynamics: Divorce can also affect relationships with extended family members, such as grandparents, aunts, and uncles, who may be involved in the lives of the divorcing couple or their children.
Emotional Health: The stress and emotional strain of divorce can affect the emotional health and well-being of all family members. It’s essential to seek emotional support and professional help when needed.
It’s important to recognize that the impact of divorce on family members can vary widely depending on individual circumstances, the age of children, the level of conflict, and the support systems in place. While divorce can be a challenging and disruptive process, many families are able to adjust and eventually find stability and happiness in their new circumstances. Seeking counseling or therapy, both individually and as a family, can be beneficial in managing the emotional challenges that often accompany divorce and its impact on family members.