Samuel Paul Henkel, Child Custody Attorney in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Samuel concentrates on child custody, criminal defense, divorce, family law, and litigation. Each area below outlines the kind of case Samuel handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Child Custody

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• Criminal Defense

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• Divorce

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• Family Law

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• Litigation

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Samuel's primary office is at 2037 Richmond St NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49504-2522. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new child custody attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Samuel usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Samuel discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in child custody practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Samuel for a child custody case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Samuel walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Samuel offer a free consultation?

  Samuel charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Samuel's office. Some child custody attorneys offer free consults — check Samuel's current terms during booking.

• How long do child custody cases in Michigan typically take?

  Simple child custody matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Samuel gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Samuel take my case if I'm outside Grand Rapids?

  Samuel is licensed in Michigan. Matters governed by Michigan law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Samuel will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Samuel?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Samuel will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Samuel accepting new child custody clients right now?

  Samuel's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.