Ellen Paynter

Ellen M. Paynter is a Michigan attorney who concentrates her practice exclusively on divorce and family law matters. With more than 30 years of legal experience, she represents clients throughout Oakland County and surrounding areas, providing focused guidance in emotionally complex and legally demanding family law cases.

Ellen earned a Bachelor of Arts from Michigan State University and later received her Juris Doctor from Detroit College of Law. Her education laid a strong foundation for a career centered on advocacy, problem-solving, and a detailed understanding of Michigan family law and court procedure.

Ellen’s practice includes divorce and separation, child custody, child support, mediation, and parenting time matters. She also handles prenuptial agreements, paternity actions, enforcement issues, and military-related family law cases. Her work emphasizes thoughtful planning and practical solutions that protect long-term family and financial interests.

Since opening her firm, Paynter & Associates, Ellen has remained committed to personal client service. She is known for listening carefully, explaining legal options clearly, and developing strategies tailored to each client’s goals. Her approach balances compassion with assertive courtroom advocacy when litigation is required.

Ellen’s professional achievements include multiple Client’s Choice awards from Avvo, Peer Review Rated recognition from Martindale-Hubbell, and selection as a Top 10 Attorney by the National Academy of Family Law Attorneys. She also received a Pro Bono Service Award from the Oakland County Bar Association for her commitment to public service.

In addition to her practice, Ellen M. Paynter maintains active involvement in professional organizations, including the American Bar Association Family Law Section and the Oakland County Bar Association. Through focused experience and dedicated representation, he continues to help clients navigate divorce and family law matters with clarity, respect, and steady advocacy.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Paynter & Associates
• Member, State Bar of Michigan
• Member, Oakland County Bar Association
• Member, Women Lawyers Association of Michigan

Licensed State

• Michigan

Education

• Detroit College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Michigan State University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges