Marriage struggles are real and sometimes things just don’t work out the way you plan. If your unhappy and are considering a divorce in Michigan, here is everything you need to know. Sometimes things don’t get better. However, the proverb “knowledge is power” can help you take control of your situation with a fresh start and the confidence to move forward. We we can help.
The formal Michigan divorce process – Divorce Steps: In Michigan, a divorce follows a formal process and our Michigan divorce attorneys understand the steps and can help you navigate the process without turbulence. The divorce steps for a Michigan divorce are as follows:
Where can you file for divorce?
You can file for divorce in the County in which you reside provided you have been a resident of the State of Michigan for at least 180 days and the County for at least 10 days. These requirements are called the jurisdictional requirements or residential requirements. It does not matter where you married, rather where you live.
How do you file for divorce?
The decision to file for divorce is hard, however, filing a divorce Complaint is easy. Although we draft our own complaints customized for our client’s needs, there are free forms available online for the DIY (simple cases). To file a Complaint for divorce, you simply draft a Summons and Complaint and file it with the Circuit Court along with a filing fee.
How do bills get paid during a divorce?
In the majority of divorce cases we file, we obtain an Order requiring the parties to maintain the financial status quo and restrain the parties from selling assets during the divorce without the permission of the other party or the court.
Can you move out before the divorce?
Yes you can. However, it is important to understand that maintaining two households is more expensive. In addition, if child custody is at issue, an interim parenting time order should be entered to preserve custodial rights.
The grounds for divorce. Does adultery matter?
To get a divorce in Michigan, the Complaint must include the no-fault ground. Specifically, “That there has been a breakdown of the marriage relationship to the extent that the object of matrimony has been destroyed and there remains no likelihood of reconciliation.” It is important to understand that “no-fault” does not mean that fault does not matter. It can. For example, if one party has committed adultery (which is a crime in Michigan), it may impact the award of property, alimony or in some circumstances an award of custody.
Property division
When a couple dissolves their relationship, property division can be one of the most important and complicated issues. Property division includes both assets, (such as real estate, personal belongings, automobiles, stocks, bank accounts, pensions), as well as debts.
Child Custody, support and Parenting time
Child custody, support and parenting time are complex subjects. But don’t worry, we have got you covered from the basics to the details. Proper planning can help you navigate a custody and parenting time case.
Child Custody videos
Parenting time videos
Spousal Support (alimony)
Alimony and spousal support mean the same things. There are several factors that the court uses to determine the amount and duration of support such as the age of the parties, income of the parties, length of the parties marriage, education level among others which are addressed in the attached video.
Divorce in Michigan – Knowledge is power.
If you want to “get into the weeds” we have produced many more videos (with hundreds of thousands of views) on divorce in Michigan covering virtually every topic you can think of by following this link to the Michigan divorce education series by Findling Law.
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Email:Daniel@Findlinglaw.com
I have been exclusively practicing divorce and family law in Michigan for over two decades. The attorneys at Findling Law all share the core value of practicing law to help people navigate change in their lives, without compromising principles. We specialize in high socio-economic, high-profile and high-conflict cases, while also working with clients of all backgrounds. We recognize that the most important aspect of the practice of law is the application of the law to your specific circumstances. That is why we provide more free information on divorce and family law than any other Michigan law firm. We want to help you manage your situation. Allow our exceptional legal team to help you navigate the change in your life, without compromising principles.