Divorce in Michigan: An Easy-to-Follow Overview

Dealing with divorce in Michigan can feel overwhelming. This page is here to help, offering a straightforward look at Michigan’s divorce laws and procedures. For more specific details, make sure to check out the additional resources linked here.

Divorce Laws in Michigan

Michigan is a purely no-fault divorce state. This means you don’t need to prove your spouse did something wrong. The only ground for divorce is that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” To file for divorce in Michigan, one spouse must have lived in the state for at least 180 days. Unlike some states, there’s no mandatory waiting period in Michigan, which can make the process quicker.

Process of Filing for Divorce

In Michigan, you start by filing a “Complaint for Divorce” in the circuit court of the county where you or your spouse lives. If you have children, additional paperwork will be needed. After filing, these documents must be legally delivered to your spouse. It’s important to note that each county in Michigan might have its own specific rules.

Child Custody and Support

Child custody in Michigan focuses on the best interests of the children. Courts look at factors like the emotional ties between the child and parents, the parents’ ability to provide love and guidance, and the child’s home, school, and community record. Child support is determined using state guidelines, considering both parents’ incomes and the needs of the children.

Alimony/Spousal Support

In Michigan, alimony (also known as spousal support) is not automatic. Courts consider many factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial resources, age, health, and the standard of living during the marriage. The goal is to ensure a fair financial balance post-divorce.

Property Division

Michigan divides marital property based on “equitable distribution.” This means the court divides property fairly, though not always equally. Factors like the duration of the marriage, each spouse’s contributions, and future financial circumstances are considered.

Michigan Divorce Resources

For more detailed information on divorce in Michigan, please explore the links provided. They include helpful insights from Michigan’s family law courts, government resources, and legal aid options.

Article: How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Michigan

Michigan Divorce Forms:

Michigan Legal Help Self-Help Divorce Forms:

Basic Forms:

• Complaint for Divorce: https://michiganlegalhelp.org/all-forms
• Answer to Complaint for Divorce: https://michiganlegalhelp.org/resources/divorce
• Affidavit of Indigency: https://michiganlegalhelp.org/all-forms
• Parenting Plan: https://michiganlegalhelp.org/all-forms
• Financial Affidavit: https://michiganlegalhelp.org/all-forms
• Judgment of Divorce: https://michiganlegalhelp.org/

Additional Forms (depending on your circumstances):

• Motion for Temporary Orders: https://www.icle.org/modules/books/chapter.aspx?chapter=6&book=2018553540&lib=family&partdisplayed=2&from=store
• Child Support Worksheet: https://www.courts.michigan.gov/administration/offices/friend-of-the-court-bureau/mcsf/
• Property Settlement Agreement: https://michiganlegalhelp.org/resources/family
• Waiver of Attorney Fees: https://michiganlegalhelp.org/all-forms

Resources:

• Michigan Legal Help – Self-Help Divorce: https://michiganlegalhelp.org/
• Michigan Courts – Domestic Relations Forms: https://www.courts.michigan.gov/SCAO-forms/
• Michigan State Bar – Family Law Section: https://connect.michbar.org/familylaw

Disclaimer

This page provides a general overview of divorce laws in Michigan and is not intended as legal advice.