Dittberner Family Law, Ltd.: Dittberner Michael D

I'd like to share my experience working with Michael Dittberner. To give some context about myself, I'm a special needs case with several mental health conditions and autism. Despite facing challenges such as a third-grade reading level (I used ChatGPT to assist with writing this review so normal people can read it), I've achieved success as a Senior Strategic Data Management Consultant at Wells Fargo and as an Army intelligence veteran. While I comprehend the distinction between right and wrong, I do encounter difficulties in day-to-day life and sought legal assistance for my divorce.

Addressing Michael's demeanor, it's important to note that I appreciate directness. However, I found Michael's approach to be less than accommodating. Many conversations concluded with the sentiment that while I might engage in unconventional behavior, my outcomes align with societal norms. As someone on the middle of the autism spectrum, I often engage in safe yet unusual actions. While I didn't object to him addressing these behaviors (Even though these behaviors were normal in our house, my wife reported them to her lawyer), a more considerate and understanding manner of communication could have resulted in significant cost savings. I initiated discussions about billing on two occasions, as the hours billed for me far exceeded those billed to anybody else in my divorce support group or what anybody else thought was reasonable. Unfortunately, my attempts to negotiate the seemingly excessive time charges were met with verbal aggressiveness and anger. I'm not discounting the complexity of my case, given my disabilities and social position, but I believe that many aspects could have been managed more promptly and with significantly less agitation.

Another challenge I encountered with Michael pertained to my reading level. Whenever he sent communications, I often had to reach out to clarify that I didn't comprehend the content. Regrettably, this did not seem to alleviate the issue, as much of our correspondence involved me seeking explanations and receiving incomplete answers. Ideally, he could have tailored his communication to my reading level from the outset, potentially saving me substantial time and money. While I endeavored to convey the importance of considering my reading level and disabilities, my efforts yielded unsatisfactory results. In hindsight, I recognize the potential value of having a social worker assigned from the county or military to assist in deciphering Michael's communications, but on the other hand Michael was supposed to be my fiduciary and I shouldn't have to find resources to interpret what my fiduciary says.

In terms of Michael's legal competency, I acknowledge that he possesses certain capabilities. Undoubtedly, my circumstances contributed to occasional challenges (he even called me during his vacation). Ultimately, my divorce case didn't progress beyond mediation, as I reconciled with my wife. In retrospect, I regret my decision to engage Michael as my lawyer. From my perspective, those seeking a more supportive and empathetic legal counsel might benefit from conducting further research. Navigating divorce is undoubtedly arduous, and I wish I had pursued alternative approaches.

The building is nice, parking is ample.

Very professional and prompt service with cases.