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What You Need To Know About Michigan Divorce

Even when you know it’s for the best, divorce can still be difficult. Divorce is a significant life change that can make the future feel uncertain. At Gormley Law Offices, PLC, we can guide you through the process, explain what needs to happen and why, as well as make you aware of your options.

Six Steps To Obtain A Divorce In Michigan

Divorce can range from the very simple – where both parties agree on nearly everything – to the complex – where blended families, multiple properties or a business is involved, or where the couple does not see eye to eye on what needs to happen.

Generally speaking, there are six steps necessary to get divorced in Michigan. Divorce is handled differently by different states, with each state having its own set of rules and requirements.

  1. You or your spouse must prove to be a Michigan resident. To prove this, you generally need to have lived in Michigan for at least six months. You also must have lived in the county you are filing for divorce in for at least 10 days.
  2. One person files for divorce at the clerk’s office. This process involves a summons, complaint and other required documentation. Michigan is a “no-fault” divorce state, meaning you can get divorced for any reason. Your spouse does not need to agree to the divorce. Only one person needs to believe the marriage cannot be repaired.
  3. The person who is “served” with divorce papers can then answer the complaint.
  4. Typically, each party will hire an attorney. This can happen at stage two, or this stage.
  5. If the marriage does not involve children, then there is a two-month waiting period in Michigan.
  6. You will decide “who gets what,” how asset and debt should be divided, how child custody arrangement should be prepared, and how much support and alimony should be paid. Then you will create a divorce agreement. You will either agree and move forward with the divorce or disagree and proceed to trial. Sometimes couples reach this stage and realize they need legal help. Each spouse must hire their own legal counsel. An attorney cannot represent both parties.

Every marriage and divorce is different. People have different personalities, goals, family dynamics, lifestyles and assets. The above is a general idea of how the divorce process works. Have more questions? Get answers to common divorce questions.  

Get The Guidance You Need For A Smooth Process

It’s always best to enlist the help of a family law professional as early as possible. However, it’s also never too late to reach out and get the help you need to move forward. Call 517-219-9301 and speak with an attorney about your divorce in a free consultation. You can also send us a brief summary of what’s happened and the help you are looking for. We will respond within 24 hours. We represent clients in Howell, Brighton and communities throughout Livingston County.