Streamline Divorce

Streamline Divorce℠ combines the efficiency of a form-based system with real legal help from an experienced family law attorney. Streamline Divorce℠ provides a relatively fast and easy way to complete the divorce process in Michigan — without the risks of trial or the costly pitfalls associated with “online” or “DIY” divorce processes.

The Streamline Divorce℠ process is unique to Banfield Couling, helping parties who desire to reach an out of court settlement work through their issues and finalize a divorce settlement.   Unlike most “online” legal forms, our process does not put you on the path toward a traditional divorce lawsuit or a potential trial.

Our proprietary forms will guide you through the steps of your divorce settlement. You have the option to consult with your Attorney at any time during this process if you have questions or are “stuck”. Before you finalize your proposed agreement, you have the opportunity to have it reviewed by an experienced attorney (based on the information you supply).  We will handle the filing of the Petition or Complaint for Divorce, handle service and Friend of the Court Review (if applicable) and complete the process by accompanying you to court and obtaining the final court order(s).

The Attorney provides limited scope services and you avoid the costs of engaging in a “court battle.” 

Flat fees

Flat fees are available (i.e., where no special or non-standard issues are involved).  Streamline Divorce℠ is particularly effective for amicable divorce cases, but we have the experience to provide the help you need if you and your spouse hit a snag or if more complex issues arise. With Streamline Divorce℠, you may complete all of the necessary agreements on your own using our forms and you always have the opportunity to work with one of our highly knowledgeable attorneys. If you wish to obtain advice on a specific issue or if you need full-scope representation, the option is always open. (Standard rates and retainer fees apply.) 

You Know Best.

You control of the terms of your divorce settlement, rather than leave the decisions in the hands of the Court. 

Who knows your family and financial needs better than you?

The Streamline process enables you and your spouse to reach a settlement on your own time line and on the terms to which you agree.  If you wish to pause the process at any point before the Court Phase, you can. 

The Streamline Divorce℠ program was developed by Denise Couling, who has been offering this approach for over 10 years. The law firm of Banfield Couling Law & Mediation PLLC is a leader in this area of family law.  We have refined the process of helping clients use the new Michigan “fast track” filing option.  When the Streamline Divorce℠ process is a good option for a client, this approach avoids the costly processes of “old fashioned” divorce litigation, including the burdens associated with multiple court dates, discovery, and trial preparation.

Our office serves Livingston, Genesee, Washtenaw, and Oakland counties, as well as other Michigan counties on a case-by-case basis.