Nicholas B. Missad

Michigan

Varnum LLP
333 Bridge Street Northwest
Suite 1700
Grand Rapids, MI 49504

Tel: 616-336-6242

Email: nbmissad@varnumlaw.com
Web: www.varnumlaw.com

Professional Biography

Nick is an assertive divorce attorney with more than 30 years of experience representing clients in complex, multimillion-dollar and high-profile family law matters. His practice is centered on divorce, custody, and broader domestic relations issues, where his firm but fair approach is shaped by decades of experience navigating the full spectrum of family disputes.

He regularly advises clients in cases involving contested divorce, custody, and other sensitive domestic matters, and is frequently engaged by other attorneys to handle challenging family law arbitration and mediation proceedings. Drawing on extensive exposure to the nuances of human behavior in family cases, Nick focuses on delivering effective and practical outcomes for his clients.

In addition to his family law practice, Nick maintains experience in criminal defense, handling felony and misdemeanor cases at both the state and federal levels. This background enhances his approach to complex family law matters, particularly in presenting facts clearly and persuasively to address difficult or potentially unfavorable interpretations. His broader practice also includes driver’s license appeals, criminal expungement, and domestic and criminal appeals.

Earlier in his career, Nick spent several years representing inmates charged with crimes within the prison system of Ionia County, further contributing to his depth of litigation experience.

Honors and Recognitions
  • Best Lawyers in America®, Family Law, since 2020
  • Grand Rapids Magazine, Top Lawyers, Family Law, since 2019
  • Leading Lawyers: Criminal Defense Law – Felonies & Misdemeanors; Family Law
  • Martindale-Hubbell® Distinguished® Peer Review Rated

Varnum’s family law practice is a well-established team that advises individuals and families on a full spectrum of domestic relations matters, combining strong advocacy with practical, solution-oriented guidance. The group handles issues including divorce, child custody and parenting time, support, paternity, and adoption, with experience in both contested and non-contested proceedings.

The team is particularly experienced in complex financial matters arising from divorce, including business valuations, high-net-worth estates, and the identification of hidden or undisclosed assets. Its attorneys work closely with financial experts to ensure accurate valuation and equitable distribution, while protecting clients’ long-term financial interests.

Varnum also places a strong emphasis on dispute resolution, offering mediation and arbitration services alongside litigation. With trained mediators and seasoned trial lawyers, the practice is equipped to resolve matters efficiently while remaining prepared to advocate firmly in court when required.

Varnum LLP is a full-service law firm providing strategic legal counsel to businesses, institutions, and individuals across Michigan, Florida, and nationwide. With a team of more than 190 attorneys across multiple offices, the firm offers comprehensive capabilities spanning corporate transactions, litigation, and private client matters.

The firm is known for its practical, business-focused approach, working closely with clients to understand their objectives and deliver tailored legal solutions that support long-term success. Its attorneys emphasize responsiveness, efficiency, and clear, actionable advice, enabling clients to navigate complex legal and commercial challenges with confidence.

With more than a century of experience, Varnum serves as a trusted advisor to business leaders and innovators, assisting with high-stakes disputes, transformative transactions, and day-to-day legal needs. The firm is particularly focused on helping clients remain forward-looking and opportunity-driven in an evolving legal and economic landscape.

Varnum has received recognition from leading industry publications, including being named a Best Law Firm to Work For by U.S. News & World Report and a Regional Powerhouse by Law360, reflecting its commitment to excellence, client service, and professional culture.

“Nick has built a formidable practice representing clients in sophisticated and high-profile family law cases. His direct and effective advocacy, combined with a deep understanding of the dynamics involved in complex disputes, consistently positions him as a go-to attorney for difficult matters.”
The Family Attorneys, 2025