Lori J Finazzo - Mount Clemens, MI

I am submitting this complaint regarding my experience with mediator Lori Fazzoni during mediation in my divorce matter. My concern is not simply that mediation failed to produce a settlement. My concern is the manner in which the mediation was conducted and whether both parties’ financial positions, arguments, and proposed settlement terms received fair and neutral consideration. Prior to mediation, I prepared and submitted a detailed settlement proposal addressing the division of property, retirement benefits, debt, custody issues, post-separation expenses, and other financial matters. During mediation, I did not feel my proposal received meaningful review or discussion. Several issues caused me significant concern. The mediator stated words to the effect of, “It’s my show.” I found this troubling in a process that I understood was supposed to remain neutral, balanced, and focused on helping both parties evaluate their respective positions. My premarital property argument was an important issue in the case, yet I do not recall receiving meaningful discussion or analysis of that issue during mediation. I also raised concerns regarding the other party’s income, employment, bank activity, financial disclosures, and expenses. I did not feel those matters received the same level of scrutiny as my finances. A substantial amount of time appeared to focus on my banking activity, attorney fees, and financial history. I was also concerned about the treatment of retirement and pension issues. These assets represent a significant portion of the marital estate. I expected meaningful discussion regarding their treatment, valuation, and possible role in settlement. Another concern involved the exchange of mediation materials. I understood mediation summaries were expected three business days before mediation. Materials from the opposing side appeared to have been submitted later than that timeframe. I am concerned about whether both parties were held to the same procedural expectations. During the process, I did not feel there was a balanced examination of each party’s income, property claims, debts, financial contributions, or settlement positions. I left mediation believing my evidence and concerns had not received equal consideration. I understand a mediator does not serve as an attorney for either party and does not decide the case. I also understand a mediator does not have to agree with my legal position. My complaint concerns the neutrality, balance, professionalism, and overall administration of the mediation process. I am requesting that the appropriate authority review the mediation, including the mediator’s conduct, the handling of the parties’ submissions, whether each party received a fair opportunity to present their position, and whether the process complied with applicable mediation standards and procedures. I am willing to provide supporting documents, mediation correspondence, settlement proposals, submission dates, emails, and other records relevant to this complaint. I am requesting a written response explaining the complaint review process and what action, if any, will be taken regarding these concerns.

Lori Finazzo is a great attorney who cares about doing the right thing! Her integrity, strong character, and value system operating is always in her clients best interest. You might not like what she has to say. That’s too bad, she operates with a moral compass for her clients well-being. If you aren’t going to be transparent, put in the work, and only pay an expensive rate to assist with motives of being vengeful towards an ex. That’s not how she works! Lori is a well recognized aggressive Macomb County attorney who doesn’t put up with crap so you don’t get bullied by the system or opposing council. I’ve been on an amazing journey with her the past 4 years. Supervised visitation situation, she assisted changing my life. Lori is wonderful person!

Lori Finazzo is a great attorney who cares about doing the right thing! Her integrity, strong character, and value system operating is always in her clients best interest. You might not like what she has to say. That’s too bad, she operates with a moral compass for her clients well-being. If you aren’t going to be transparent, put in the work, and only pay an expensive rate to assist with motives of being vengeful towards an ex. That’s not how she works! Lori is a well recognized aggressive Macomb County attorney who doesn’t put up with crap so you don’t get bullied by the system or opposing council. I’ve been on an amazing journey with her the past 4 years. Supervised visitation situation, she assisted changing my life. Lori is wonderful person!