David Sarnacki

About David Sarnacki

I’ve been called a “Collaborative Warrior,” which I like. A warrior wise enough to know when and how to exert power to remove an obstacle. A problem solver who works well with others to make workable solutions actually work for this person, in this situation, well into the future. A skilled, ethical family lawyer prefers to de-escalate the stress, find a fair solution, and help the parties walk away with their assets and integrity intact. Ex-spouses often need to communicate or work together, especially when children’s lives are at stake. Blowing things up is for the unskilled, the unwise, or the unprofessional. When a marriage ends, the assets will need to be divided fairly. You can fight, but a skilled family lawyer knows the system, the metrics, the judges, and what’s most likely to work for you. We know the probable result within a pretty narrow range, and asking for the moon or fighting over trivialities wastes the client’s cash and critical credibility with the court. Collaborate when you can, only fight when you must. When money and children are involved, emotional challenges are inevitable. I help work through them quickly and empathetically, so you can move to the next phase of your life in a strong, secure, and confident position. Being reasonable and professional gets results that matter. With a proven track record in the most complex situations and a courtroom presence that judges value, our adversaries know it’s better to work cooperatively with me than to attempt silly litigation games. “Dave’s a nice guy, but don’t cross him.” Family law does not need to be traumatizing. My job is to get my clients everything they are entitled to, while minimizing their pain. I seek to lower the temperature enough to find common ground and a resolution both sides can live with. But some exes are just itching for a fight. And when they are, we stand up for our clients, fighting hard, and winning. But “winning” has a different definition where you may want to celebrate family events together. Burning bridges is as destructive as the label suggests and a poor long-term strategy. It\'s my job to guide clients through the chaos to their best result, whatever that may be, to offer the pros and cons of all of their options and guide them along the right path. I’m also a popular family law mediator, known across the legal community as someone who works hard; knows the files, facts, and parties; and has the insight and expertise to collaboratively find common ground. If you need a trusted lawyer or referral, CALL ME.

Experience

1. Trial Attorney & Divorce Mediator

   The Sarnacki Law Firm Plc

   Jun 2001 — Present · Grand Rapids, MI, US

Education

• Marquette University

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, Communication and Political Science

• Marquette University Law School

  Doctor of Law - JD, Law