Neil Magner is a highly regarded family lawyer based in Greenfield, Wisconsin, known for his exceptional work in handling a wide variety of family law cases. His practice spans nearly two decades, during which he has earned a reputation for providing compassionate, client-focused legal representation in emotionally charged cases. Magner’s legal expertise extends to divorce, child custody, child support, legal separation, paternity cases, and post-judgment modifications, making him one of the go-to attorneys for families in Wisconsin facing challenging legal situations.
Educational Background and Legal Foundations
Neil Magner’s legal journey began with his pursuit of higher education at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing. His academic foundation in business prepared him with essential skills in analytical thinking and strategic decision-making, which would later inform his legal approach. Following this, Magner attended Marquette University Law School, earning his Juris Doctor (JD) degree in 2004. His legal education at Marquette equipped him with the tools to navigate the complexities of family law while developing a deep understanding of Wisconsin’s legal landscape.
Areas of Practice
Magner’s law practice is centered on family law, a field that involves some of the most emotionally complex and legally intricate cases. His practice areas include:
- Divorce: Neil Magner handles both contested and uncontested divorce cases, working with clients to ensure fair division of assets, property, and, where applicable, spousal support. His goal is to secure an equitable outcome while minimizing the stress and emotional toll on his clients.
- Child Custody and Support: In cases involving child custody and support, Magner advocates for the best interests of the children while ensuring that parents’ rights are fairly represented. He works to create parenting plans that serve the child’s well-being and enforces Wisconsin’s child support laws to ensure adequate financial support.
- Legal Separation: For couples not ready to divorce but seeking formal separation, Magner assists with the legal process of separation, including dividing assets and determining temporary child custody and support arrangements.
- Paternity Cases: Establishing legal paternity can be critical for securing child support, custody rights, and visitation schedules. Magner represents both mothers and fathers in paternity disputes, ensuring that the legal parentage is recognized and that all parties’ rights are upheld.
- Post-Judgment Modifications: Family dynamics often change after a court judgment, whether through a change in income, relocation, or shifts in parenting roles. Magner assists clients in seeking modifications to existing custody or support orders to reflect new realities.
- Guardianship and Elder Law: Magner also provides legal guidance in elder law, particularly in matters concerning guardianship. He helps families secure guardianship for elderly relatives or individuals with disabilities, ensuring their rights and well-being are protected.
Legal Approach and Philosophy
Magner’s approach to family law is grounded in a deep commitment to his clients and a desire to achieve fair, balanced outcomes. He understands the emotional strain that accompanies family law cases and strives to offer compassionate guidance while remaining a staunch advocate for his clients’ legal rights. He is known for his ability to remain calm and composed during contentious legal disputes, which reassures clients and helps them make informed decisions throughout the legal process.
In addition to his strong litigation skills, Magner encourages alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation and collaborative law, particularly in divorce cases. These methods allow clients to resolve conflicts in a less adversarial, more cost-effective manner than traditional court litigation. His focus is on finding solutions that minimize the emotional and financial impact on families, especially when children are involved.
Professional Recognition and Awards
Neil Magner’s legal skills and dedication to his clients have earned him numerous accolades over the years. He has been recognized as a Super Lawyer consistently from 2016 to 2024, a prestigious designation that highlights his exceptional legal abilities and ethical standards. Before that, he was named a Rising Star several times, which is an honor given to outstanding young attorneys who have demonstrated significant professional achievement early in their careers. His consistent presence on these lists underscores his standing in the Wisconsin legal community as a top-tier family lawyer.
Magner has also earned high ratings from peers and clients alike, with a Superb rating on AVVO, a widely respected lawyer review platform. This rating reflects both his legal skills and his commitment to delivering high-quality, client-focused legal services.
Professional Affiliations and Continued Learning
Staying informed on the latest legal developments is a key aspect of Neil Magner’s practice. He is an active member of several professional organizations, including the State Bar of Wisconsin, the Collaborative Family Law Council of Wisconsin, and the Milwaukee Bar Association’s Family Law Section. These affiliations allow him to remain at the forefront of evolving family law practices, ensuring that his clients benefit from the most up-to-date legal strategies and insights.
Community Involvement and Pro Bono Work
Magner is also deeply committed to giving back to his community. He participates in the Volunteer Lawyers Project, where he provides pro bono legal assistance to clients who cannot afford legal representation. This work often involves helping clients navigate difficult custody and placement cases, ensuring that everyone has access to legal resources regardless of their financial situation. His commitment to public service reflects his belief that access to justice should be available to all individuals, particularly in emotionally charged family law cases.
Conclusion
Neil Magner’s reputation as a leading family lawyer in Wisconsin is well deserved. With nearly two decades of experience, he has built a successful practice grounded in both legal expertise and compassionate client care. His work in divorce, child custody, and other family law matters has earned him the respect of peers and clients alike, as well as recognition through prestigious awards and accolades. Magner’s focus on achieving fair, balanced outcomes and his dedication to offering comprehensive legal support to families make him a trusted legal ally in Wisconsin.
Whether clients are facing a complicated divorce, custody dispute, or need guidance in elder law, Neil Magner offers a steady, informed, and empathetic approach to resolving their legal challenges. His commitment to his clients and the wider community ensures that he will remain a prominent figure in Wisconsin’s family law landscape for years to come.
