Overview
Family Law Attorney
Tony is a senior member of the firm's Family Law Practice Team. His principal focus is representing clients in contested divorce and custody matters; and a substantial element of his practice is helping parties resolve disputes by providing mediation and arbitration services to them and their counsel. He also serves as the guardian ad litem (GAL) for children suffering under the stress of divorce. Clients maintain high levels of confidence in and respect for Tony because of his vast experience, affable disposition and ability to remain objective when emotions are running high. He is painstakingly honest with his clients and gives them advice they need to hear, even if it is not what they want to hear.
Clients appreciate Tony because of his capacity to listen before speaking and to step into the shoes of everyone involved in the process before making recommendations or decisions. These skills ensure the best dispute resolution available for the affected family members. He has earned a strong reputation among his peers and area judges for being trustworthy, responsive and efficient.
Tony is a former trustee of the Grand Rapids Bar Association and former chair of the Association’s Family Law Section. He is also a former clerk for the Honorable Douglas W. Hillman of the United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan.
For more information, please contact Tony Gauthier at 616/336-6236 or apgauthier@varnumlaw.com
Experience
Experience
Tony has mediated, arbitrated, and represented clients in Michigan trial and appellate courts in a wide range of contested matters involving complex, privately-held business interests.
Tony’s experience in diverse, high-conflict custody disputes has given him the insights and skills essential to the creation of practical and durable outcomes.
Leadership
Honors & Recognitions
Best Lawyers in America®, Family Law, 2019, 2020 and 2021
Leading Lawyers: ADR Law - Family; Family Law
Martindale-Hubbell® AV Preeminent™ Peer Review Rated
Professional Affiliations
Grand Rapids Bar Association
State Bar of Michigan, Family Law Section
News & Publications
News
Publications
Practice Areas
- Family Law
- Adoption
- Business Owners: Valuations
- Custody, Parenting Time and Child Support
- Divorce
- Family Law Mediators and Arbitrators
- Fraud/Hidden Assets
- Litigation Services
- Mental Health and Family Law
- Paternity/Revocations
- Post-Judgment Matters
- Pre- and Post-Nuptial Agreements
- Property Division
- Spousal Support
Education
University of Kansas Law School
Lawrence, Kansas
J.D., 1982
Staff, Kansas Law Review
University of Kansas General Council, Law Clerk
University of Kansas
Lawrence, Kansas
B.S., 1970
B.A., 1969
Court Admissions
- All Michigan state courts
- United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit
- United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan