Amanda Van Essen Wirth

Amanda Van Essen Wirth has been actively involved in the Grand Rapids and West Michigan legal community since 2011. Her practice focuses on family law, probate litigation and civil litigation.  As a mediator, Amanda specializes in domestic mediation and civil mediation. She is SCAO-certified and court rostered.

In 2019, Amanda was awarded a Special Tribute by the Michigan Legislature and Governor Whitmer for her guardian ad litem advocacy in Child Welfare. Amanda was named an Influential Woman in the Law by Michigan Lawyers Weekly in 2022. She is ICLE Certified in Probate & Estate, and previously served on the State of Michigan’s Human Trafficking Task Force.

In addition to her mediation and law practice, Amanda is a Major and Judge Advocate (JAG) attorney in the Michigan Army National Guard. She has served as the JAG for Camp Grayling, as Brigade JAG for the 63^rd Troop Command, and as Special Victim’s Counsel. She also authored the book, America’s Favorite Mascot: A History Of The Army Mule At West Point. Amanda’s military training and experience is a special asset for assisting in cases where military servicemember or veteran issues arise.

Outside of her professional practice and military service, Amanda serves on the board of directors for the John Ball Zoo, is actively involved in her children’s schools, and has held various positions in county, state and national politics.