Margaret E. Allen

After graduating from law school in May of 1994, I moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan.  I have been practicing law in Ottawa and Kent counties since then.  I specialize in family law, child welfare and juvenile justice. 
Over the past 29 years, I have developed a passion for working with children and families. 

I completed 40 hours of mediation training in February of 2012, as well as 8 hours of domestic violence training.  I have mediated numerous cases to successful resolution.   I rarely litigate divorce cases anymore because I have come to realize that when people are offered a process that allows them to make their own decisions about what is best for their children, the children benefit greatly.  Having worked together through mediation, the parents set the foundation for their future parenting relationship.  All family members are, therefore, better able to move forward. 

I live with my family in the Rockford area.  My husband and I have 4 children, ranging in ages from 16-26.  I love to read and travel, especially with my family. 

EDUCATION:
Indiana University School of Law Bloomington, Indiana
Doctor of Jurisprudence, cum laude, May 1994
        • ABA Moot Court Team        
        • The Order of Barristers        
        • Elected Speaker: 1994 Graduation        
        • Dean’s Honors: three semesters   Bloomington, IN
        • Fellowship Recipient: 1993/1994
         
Truman State University Kirksville, MO 
Bachelor of Science, cum laude, May 1991 
                                                                        
EXPERIENCE: 
Law Office of Margaret E. Allen, P.C.   Rockford, MI
Owner:  Maintain general practice of law in Ottawa and Kent Counties, Michigan with an emphasis in family law, neglect and abuse law and juvenile delinquency.  August 2003 to present.

Scheuerle & Zitta, LLP, Grand Haven, MI

Partner:  Maintain general practice of law in Ottawa County, Michigan with an emphasis on family law, neglect and abuse law, juvenile delinquency and criminal defense. July 2000 to August 2003.
 
Scheuerle & Zitta, LLP, Grand Haven, MI
Associate:  Maintain general practice of law in Ottawa County, Michigan with an emphasis on family law, abuse and neglect and juvenile delinquency.  Also served as a Referee for the Ottawa County Family Court.  March 1998 to July 2000.
         

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS:

            State Bar of Michigan
            Licensed in November of 1994

            Grand Rapids Bar Association
            Board of Trustees - May 1998 to May 1999.
            Liberty Day Volunteer – 2011 and 2012
            Family law Section
            Parent & Children Section – Board Member, Chair of Meeting Planning Committee – 2012 – 2015,
            Vice President 2014 –present
 
            Women Lawyers Association of Michigan - Western Region
            Regional Representative - May 1995 to May 1996
            Vice President - May 1996 to May 1997;
            President - May 1998 to May 1999
            Secretary & Liaison to the Grand Rapids Bar Association’s Law Day Committee - May 1997 to May 1998
 
 
            Collaborative Divorce Professionals of West Michigan

            Collaborative Practice Institute of Michigan

            International Academy of Collaborative Profession