Erika Salerno Shadowens
Partner
Practice Areas
Industries
Education
Loyola University Chicago School of Law
Chicago, Illinois
LL.M., Health Care, cum laude, 2014
Drake University Law School
Des Moines, Illinois
Drake Law Review, Editor
J.D., cum laude, 1996
Michigan State University
East Lansing, Michigan
B.A., cum laude, 1993
Bar Admissions
Michigan
Wisconsin
Court Admissions
All Michigan state courts
United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan
Family Law Attorney
Erika Salerno Shadowens is a partner at Varnum LLP. Erika’s practice is entirely devoted to family law matters specializing in divorce, child custody and family law litigation including change of domicile, interstate and international child custody matters. Erika is also a trained mediator and collaborative lawyer. She adamantly advocates for her clients in Kalamazoo, Kent, Allegan, Berrien, Van Buren, St. Joseph, Barry, Calhoun, Eaton, Ionia, and surrounding counties. Her 26 years of experience lends itself well to complex high asset cases involving closely held family businesses, and challenging child custody matters. Her knowledge of the law, diligence and tenacity help her accomplish her client’s goals in their family law matters.
Erika has litigated cases in all levels of the court system, including the Michigan Supreme Court. Media outlets call on her to share her expertise. Erika is a former Council Member of the State Bar of Michigan Family Law Section and currently serves as a Board Member for the Girls on the Run of Greater Kalamazoo.
Honors and Recognitions
Best Lawyers in America®, Family Law, since 2021
National Law Review, Thought Leader Award (Family Law Practice Team), 2020
Michigan Lawyers Weekly, Women in the Law, 2014
Kalamazoo County Bar Association, Vlachos Award, 2013
Professional Affiliations
Kalamazoo County Bar Association
Kalamazoo County Family Law Bar Association
State Bar of Michigan, Family Law Section
Community Involvement
Girls on the Run of Greater Kalamazoo, Board Member
East Kentwood High School Marching Band, Volunteer
Red Storm Robotics Team, Volunteer
Western Michigan University, Adjunct Professor
Leadership Kalamazoo, 2014
Client Testimonials
Erika is a no nonsense attorney that tells you straight forward what your options are from a legal standpoint and advise you how best to proceed. Meanwhile, always leaving the final decision with you. She always made me feel as if my case was the most important because though I am merely one of many clients, Erika communicated with me like I was the only one.
– Kandy
Erika did a fantastic job with our case even when it got very heated between the other side & their lawyer towards the end. She got us sole legal and physical custody of our daughter which we thought was near impossible. She really cares about her clients and always has their best interests in mind.
– Luke
I have hired Erika twice for two separate occasions. The most recent case she helped me with was a custody issue. She was able to help me keep custody of my son, and to be able to move out of state. With both occasions Erika showed compassion and genuine concern. She goes in to battle and stands strong on the battle for you! I highly recommend Erika and will use her again!
– Lisa
*Statements concerning past results do not assure similar outcomes in any other matter.