If you are planning to get a divorce, or even if you are already starting the process, there is a lot of information you will need to know moving forward. Michigan divorce law can be complicated, and going through the steps of a divorce can be extremely overwhelming if you do not know what to expect. Take a look below at some major things that you should know about getting a divorce.
Make Sure You Meet the Requirements
There are some basic requirements in Michigan to file for a divorce. The most basic thing is that at least one of the spouses needs to be a Michigan resident for at least 180 days. When you are able to file, you must prove the grounds of your divorce to the court – that the marriage is irreconcilable. Your spouse may choose to dispute this claim if they so desire.
In addition, your divorce will not be finalized until between 60-days and 6 months, depending on if you have minor children or not.
You Do Not Need To Battle It Out In Court
Nearly all divorce lawyers in Grand Rapids will suggest that you attempt to reach an agreement with your spouse outside of court. You can achieve this either through mediation, or with 4-way meetings between you, your attorney, your spouse, and their attorney. In these meetings, you will go through all of the important decisions such as asset and debt division, custody, alimony, and child support, before submitting your agreements to a judge for final approval.
If you are unable to reach an agreement outside of court, you will be forced to trial, which can be emotionally draining and extremely time-consuming.
Make Sure This Is The Right Option
Before you file for a divorce, it is important that you have truly considered your other options, like marriage counseling. If you know that there is no resolution other than terminating your divorce, then proceed with filing.
Get a Good Attorney
Regardless of how simple you think your divorce may be, you will want to proceed with the help of a good divorce attorney. No divorce goes off without a hitch, and unless you want to spend all of your extra time studying divorce law, you will be happy you got the help of a pro.
Nobody “Wins” a Divorce
When you are going into negotiations about your property, assets, and debt, it is important to understand that you are not going to “win” the divorce, and that each side will walk away without everything they want. The sooner you and your spouse both understand this, the easier your negotiations will be. In some situations, one or both spouses refuse to compromise, and are forced into a trial where nobody is happy with anything they end up with. Trust us: avoid a trial if at all possible.
Your Children Need To Be Considered
Just because you are getting a divorce doesn’t mean that your children are. It is important for you and your spouse to consider the needs of your children, because if you don’t, the courts will. Before your divorce is finalized, a judge will go through the terms and conditions that you and your spouse have agreed to, and if your children and their well-being aren’t factored in appropriately, you will have to go back to the drawing board.
