I am drawn to mediation because it offers a more thoughtful and respectful alternative to traditional divorce litigation. Divorce mediation allows clients to make informed decisions in a structured, non-adversarial environment while maintaining control over outcomes. With a focus on financial clarity, I help clients understand the long-term impact of decisions around spousal maintenance, property division, and retirement so they can reach agreements that are sustainable and aligned with their future.
Michelle Leisen is a divorce mediator and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®) based in Minnesota and the founder of Divorce Smart. She provides divorce mediation services throughout Minnesota, helping individuals and couples resolve divorce outside of court in a more efficient, cost-effective, and respectful way. With over 25 years of experience in financial planning and investment management, Michelle brings a unique financial perspective to the mediation process, helping clients make informed decisions that support both immediate resolution and long-term financial stability.
Her practice focuses on divorce mediation in Minnesota with a strong emphasis on financial clarity. Michelle works with clients to understand income, expenses, assets, and future financial needs, guiding discussions around spousal maintenance (alimony), property division, and retirement planning. She is particularly experienced in complex financial cases, including high-asset divorce, retirement accounts, pensions, and long-term income planning.
Michelle has a specialized focus on gray divorce in Minnesota, working with clients over 50 who are navigating divorce later in life. These cases often involve protecting retirement assets, evaluating long-term financial security, and making thoughtful decisions around spousal maintenance and asset division. Her financial-first approach helps clients reduce uncertainty and avoid costly mistakes.
Known for her calm, neutral, and structured approach, Michelle helps reduce conflict while keeping mediation focused and productive. She works to create an environment where both parties feel informed and supported, leading to agreements that are practical, balanced, and more likely to hold over time. Her goal is to help clients move through divorce with clarity, confidence, and a clear path forward—financially and personally.