Welcome to

SHIMEK LAW FIRM, PLLC

Protecting your family, property, and future.

Southeast Michigan Attorneys

P R A C T I C E  A R E A S

Our family law attorneys have extensive experience in contested and uncontested divorces, and will handle your separation with compassion, kindness, and professionalism.

When a marriage or relationship ends, decisions involving children can be emotional. It’s great when you and your ex-spouse or ex-partner can agree amicably on custody, support, and other provisions.

Opening your heart and your family through adoption is joyous and rewarding, but the process can be complicated. We can help you navigate the legal requirements and unanticipated obstacles.

Medical debt, loss of income, business debt, divorce, and other life changes can take a toll on your financial security. Bankruptcy protection gives you the power to regain control of your future.

When a loved one passes or becomes unable to make decisions about their care, you need compassionate, experienced counsel to help you resolve their affairs with dignity. We will advise you every step of the way.

A comprehensive estate plan gives you peace of mind and provides clear instructions to your loved ones and heirs throughout your life and upon your death.

At Shimek Law Firm we understand that personal injury cases can arise from a wide range of accidents and incidents. Our experienced team of lawyers are committed to helping you obtain the compensation you deserve.

The attorneys and professionals at the Shimek Law Firm represent clients in Wayne, Washtenaw, Oakland, and Monroe Counties, counseling them in a variety of matters, including:


  • Divorce, Adoption, and Family Law
  • Debt Relief and Personal Bankruptcy
  • Personal Injury
  • Guardianships and Conservatorships
  • Probate Administration
  • Estates, Wills, and Trusts


Whenever feasible, we utilize negotiation, mediation, and other economical, out-of-court alternatives to resolve disputes. If those options aren’t possible, we’re not afraid to fight our clients’ battles in the courtroom.


Lawsuits and legal proceedings are stressful. Count on us to explain the process, answer all of your questions, and respond to your calls and emails every step of the way. We maintain a safe and healthy office environment, but we will gladly meet with you by phone or video during the pandemic if you prefer.


If you need a team committed to protecting your best interests, schedule a consultation today by calling (734) 285-5625 or filling out the form below.

Read what clients have to say about the Shimek Law Firm:


* We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.

Recent Blog Posts

By Kory Shimek 15 Feb, 2024
Wills: Definition: A will is a legal document that outlines how you want your assets to be distributed after your death. It also allows you to appoint guardians for minor children and specify other wishes, such as funeral arrangements.  Functionality: Distribution of Assets: Wills specify who will inherit your property and in what proportions. They can distribute assets outright or in trust for minors or beneficiaries with special needs. Probate Process: Wills typically go through probate, which is a court-supervised process of validating the will and distributing assets according to its instructions. This process can be time-consuming and costly. Public Record: Wills become public record upon your death, meaning anyone can access the information contained in them. Advantages: Ease of Creation: Wills are generally simpler and less expensive to create than trusts. Flexibility: You can easily update and revise a will as your circumstances change. Nomination of Guardians: You can nominate guardians for minor children in a will, which is important for parents. Disadvantages: Probate: Wills typically go through the probate process, which can be time-consuming and expensive. Public Record: Wills become public record upon your death, which may not be desirable for some individuals who value privacy. Limited Protection: Wills offer limited protection from challenges by disgruntled heirs or creditors. Trusts: Definition: A trust is a legal arrangement where you transfer ownership of your assets to a trustee who manages them for the benefit of your beneficiaries according to the terms you've specified. Functionality: Asset Management: Trusts allow for ongoing management of assets, especially useful for minors or individuals who may not be capable of managing assets themselves. Avoidance of Probate: Assets held in a trust generally avoid probate, which can save time and money and keep your affairs private. Privacy: Unlike wills, trusts are generally private documents and do not become part of the public record upon your death. Advantages: Probate Avoidance: Trusts bypass the probate process, saving time and money and providing a quicker distribution of assets to beneficiaries. Asset Management: Trusts allow for ongoing management of assets, which can be beneficial for beneficiaries who may not be able to manage assets themselves. Privacy: Trusts are private documents, providing confidentiality and discretion regarding your estate plans. Disadvantages: Cost: Trusts are typically more expensive to create and maintain than wills. Complexity: Trusts can be more complex to set up and manage than wills, requiring careful attention to detail and ongoing administration. Initial Funding: Trusts require the transfer of assets into the trust, which can be a time-consuming process and may require additional legal work. Similarities: Estate Planning Tools: Both wills and trusts are estate planning tools that allow individuals to specify how their assets will be distributed after their death. Legal Documents: Wills and trusts are both legally binding documents that must comply with specific legal requirements to be valid. Appointment of Fiduciaries: Both wills and trusts allow you to appoint fiduciaries, such as executors or trustees, to carry out your wishes and manage your estate. In summary, while wills and trusts serve similar purposes in estate planning, they have distinct differences in terms of probate avoidance, privacy, complexity, and cost. The choice between a will and a trust depends on individual circumstances, including the size and complexity of the estate, the desire for privacy, and the need for ongoing asset management. It's often beneficial to consult with a qualified estate planning attorney to determine the most appropriate option for your specific situation.
By Kory Shimek 12 Feb, 2024
Attending court hearings virtually and attending in person each have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here's a comparison: Attending Court Hearings Virtually: Advantages: Convenience: Participants can join hearings from anywhere with an internet connection, reducing travel time and costs. Flexibility: Virtual attendance allows for scheduling flexibility, making it easier to accommodate multiple hearings or appointments in a day. Accessibility: Virtual hearings can be more accessible for individuals with disabilities or mobility issues. Reduced environmental impact: Virtual attendance eliminates the need for travel, reducing carbon emissions associated with commuting. Enhanced safety: During pandemics or other health crises, virtual hearings minimize the risk of exposure to contagious illnesses. Disadvantages: Technical issues: Poor internet connection or technical glitches can disrupt proceedings and cause delays. Limited interaction: Virtual hearings may lack the personal interaction and non-verbal cues present in face-to-face interactions, potentially affecting communication and understanding. Security concerns: Virtual platforms may be susceptible to hacking or unauthorized access, raising concerns about the privacy and security of sensitive information. Distractions: Participants may be more prone to distractions or interruptions when attending hearings from home or other non-traditional locations. Formality and decorum: Maintaining the formality and decorum of court proceedings can be challenging in a virtual environment, potentially undermining the seriousness and respect for the judicial process. Attending Court Hearings In Person: Advantages: Direct interaction: In-person attendance allows for direct interaction and communication between participants, fostering better understanding and collaboration. Courtroom atmosphere: Being physically present in the courtroom helps participants fully experience the atmosphere and gravity of the proceedings. Non-verbal cues: In-person interactions allow for the observation of non-verbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, which can be crucial for effective communication and decision-making. Enhanced security: In-person attendance facilitates better security measures and protocols, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or disruptions. Tradition and formalities: In-person hearings uphold the traditional formalities and decorum associated with court proceedings, maintaining the integrity and respect for the judicial process. Disadvantages: Travel and logistics: In-person attendance requires travel to the courthouse, which can be time-consuming and costly, especially for participants who live far away. Scheduling conflicts: Fixed hearing schedules may clash with other commitments or obligations, making it difficult for participants to attend in person. Health risks: In-person attendance exposes participants to the risk of contagious illnesses, especially during pandemics or health emergencies. Limited accessibility: Physical barriers and limitations may make it difficult for individuals with disabilities or mobility issues to attend court hearings in person. Environmental impact: In-person attendance contributes to carbon emissions through commuting and transportation, potentially exacerbating environmental concerns. In conclusion, both virtual and in-person attendance have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between them depends on various factors such as the nature of the case, individual preferences, logistical considerations, and external circumstances such as public health concerns.
By Kory Shimek 04 Dec, 2023
Hiring an attorney can offer a range of benefits, depending on the situation and legal matter at hand. Here are several advantages to consider: Legal Expertise: Attorneys undergo years of education and training to specialize in specific areas of law. Their expertise and knowledge of the legal system can be invaluable when navigating complex legal issues. Whether it's drafting legal documents, providing advice, or representing you in court, an attorney's expertise can make a significant difference. Legal Analysis and Strategy: Attorneys are trained to analyze legal issues and develop effective strategies to address them. They can assess the strengths and weaknesses of your case, identify potential legal arguments, and develop a plan to achieve the best possible outcome. Guidance Through Legal Processes: Legal procedures can be intricate and overwhelming. An attorney can guide you through the entire legal process, ensuring that you meet deadlines, file the necessary documents correctly, and adhere to procedural requirements. This is particularly important in situations such as court appearances and negotiations. Protection of Your Rights: Attorneys are advocates for their clients and are dedicated to protecting their rights. Whether you're facing criminal charges, involved in a civil dispute, or dealing with a family matter, an attorney will work to ensure that your rights are upheld throughout the legal proceedings. Negotiation Skills: Many legal matters involve negotiation. Attorneys are trained in the art of negotiation and can represent your interests effectively. Whether it's reaching a settlement in a personal injury case or negotiating the terms of a contract, having an attorney on your side can improve the likelihood of a favorable outcome. Access to Legal Resources: Attorneys have access to legal resources, databases, and networks that can be crucial to building a strong case. They can leverage these resources to gather evidence, research legal precedents, and strengthen your position in legal proceedings. Risk Mitigation: Legal matters often involve risks, and an attorney can help you understand and mitigate these risks. By providing a realistic assessment of your situation, an attorney can guide you in making informed decisions that minimize potential negative consequences. Streamlining Complex Legal Language: Legal documents and terminology can be confusing and complex. Attorneys are skilled at interpreting and explaining these intricacies in a way that their clients can understand. This ensures that you are fully informed about the legal implications of your situation. Courtroom Representation: If your case goes to court, having an attorney to represent you is crucial. Attorneys are experienced in courtroom procedures, presenting evidence, and making persuasive arguments. Their presence can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Peace of Mind: Knowing that you have a knowledgeable and experienced professional handling your legal matters can provide peace of mind. It allows you to focus on other aspects of your life while trusting that your legal concerns are being addressed competently. While hiring an attorney involves costs, the benefits often outweigh the financial investment, especially when dealing with complex legal issues. Attorneys bring a level of expertise, guidance, and advocacy that can significantly enhance your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.
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