How much does it cost to hire Michael for a adoption case?

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

Does Michael offer a free consultation?

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

How long do adoption cases in Indiana typically take?

Simple adoption 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. Michael gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Michael take my case if I'm outside Fort Wayne?

Michael is licensed in Indiana. Matters governed by Indiana law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Michael 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 Michael?

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. Michael will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is Michael accepting new adoption clients right now?

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

Michael A. Setlak, Adoption Attorney in Fort Wayne

Quick answer

Michael A. Setlak is a member based in Fort Wayne, IN. The practice focuses on Adoption, ADR, and Alimony. Michael has over 24 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Shilts & Setlak, LLC. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 49 client reviews.

Based in: Fort Wayne, IN
Experience: over 24 years
Known for: Adoption · ADR · Alimony

Handles Adoption, ADR, and Alimony matters from Fort Wayne, IN.
Over 24 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with BV Distinguished.

Areas of practice

Legal matters Michael takes on

Michael concentrates on adoption, adr, alimony, bankruptcy, and business. Each area below outlines the kind of case Michael handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Adoption cases in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Michael takes adoption matters in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

ADR cases in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Michael takes adr matters in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Alimony cases in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Michael takes alimony matters in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Bankruptcy cases in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Michael takes bankruptcy matters in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Business cases in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Michael takes business matters in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Biography

Meet Michael A. Setlak — adoption lawyer in Fort Wayne

Michael A. Setlak is a member based in Fort Wayne, IN. The practice focuses on Adoption, ADR, and Alimony. Michael has over 24 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Shilts & Setlak, LLC. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 49 client reviews.

Mike began practicing law in 2002 in Fort Wayne and the surrounding counties. Mike has focused his scope of legal practice to all issues involving family law, which include dissolution, post-dissolution modifications, child support matters, parenting time, custody, paternity, guardianships, and adoption.

In Mike’s family law practice, like Perry, he also strongly emphasizes the benefits of working toward a well-crafted settlement (usually time and money). While Mike encourages his clients to work toward a successful agreement, he also understands that some matters will just not settle (for various reasons), and that it is necessary to take the matter to trial. With over 15 years of litigation experience, Mike is confident in his abilities inside the Courtroom and the preparation that is required to assist his clients in meeting their goals. Mike is committed and focused to provide his clients, along with Perry’s clients, the attention they require and deserve. After meeting with Mike, you will understand and appreciate the dedication he has for you and the willingness and desire to see that your legal needs are met.

When Mike is not assisting his clients, he is spending time with his family. He is also an avid outdoorsman and escapes to the tranquility of woods and water during his limited free time. In addition to enjoying nature, Mike loves to attend baseball games and to support his favorite team, the Chicago Cubs. In addition to following the Cubs, Mike roots for and backs all Chicago sport teams.

How Michael handles adoption matters

Mike began practicing law in 2002 in Fort Wayne and the surrounding counties. Mike has focused his scope of legal practice to all issues involving family law, which include dissolution, post-dissolution modifications, child support matters, parenting time, custody, paternity, guardianships, and adoption. In Mike’s family law practice, like Perry, he also strongly emphasizes the benefits of…

The kind of cases Michael takes

Michael reviews new inquiries case-by-case for adoption, adr, and alimony matters in Fort Wayne and the surrounding Indiana area.

Credentials

Education, bar admissions, and languages

Indiana University School of Law - Indianapolis
J.D. · 2002
Purdue University
B.S. Personnel · 1996

Jurisdictions

Michael's state bar admissions

Indiana
2002 · ACTIVE

Michael studied at J.D. in Indiana University School of Law - Indianapolis and B.S. Personnel in Purdue University.

Law school and academic background

Michael completed J.D. in Indiana University School of Law - Indianapolis and B.S. Personnel in Purdue University. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Michael runs in Indiana is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Recognition and thought leadership

Michael has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

BV Distinguished

Legal awards and honors

BV Distinguished.

Locations

Michael A. Setlak's office in Fort Wayne

Michael's primary office is at 10311 Dawson's Creek Boulevard, Suite C, Fort Wayne, IN, 46825-1913. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Shilts & Setlak, LLC

10311 Dawson's Creek Boulevard, Suite C

Fort Wayne, IN 46825-1913

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of Michael A. Setlak — 5.0/5 rating from 49 verified client reviews

Every review below is from a verified client of Michael. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing adoption attorneys in Fort Wayne.

5.0

49 client reviews

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Michael A. Setlak claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Michael A. Setlak — what to expect in your first consultation

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

Consultation formats and pricing

Michael charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Michael's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Michael will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a adoption attorney in Fort Wayne, Indiana

A short list to run through before you commit: How many adoption matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Michael

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

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every adoption matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Michael confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Michael's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many adoption practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Michael A. Setlak

How much does it cost to hire Michael for a adoption case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Michael walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Michael offer a free consultation?
Michael charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Michael's office. Some adoption attorneys offer free consults — check Michael's current terms during booking.
How long do adoption cases in Indiana typically take?
Simple adoption 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. Michael gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Michael take my case if I'm outside Fort Wayne?
Michael is licensed in Indiana. Matters governed by Indiana law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Michael 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 Michael?
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. Michael will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Michael accepting new adoption clients right now?
Michael's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Areas served

Adoption attorneys serving Fort Wayne, Indianapolis and Carmel in Indiana

Michael handles adoption matters throughout Indiana. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified adoption attorneys in that community.

Michael A. Setlak, Adoption Attorney in Fort Wayne, Indiana