In any relationship, there are times when it becomes clear that divorce is the only option. If you’re considering filing for divorce in Michigan, it is vital to understand the process and what steps are involved. This article will walk you through the steps on how to file for divorce in Michigan. We hope this information is helpful and gives you a better understanding of what to expect.
Steps to filing for divorce?
Let’s look at the steps to filing for divorce in Michigan.
Determine if you meet the residency requirements
To file for divorce, one spouse must have been a state resident for at least 180 days before the filing. If the couple has minor children, the child must have resided in Michigan for at least six months before the filing.
Draft a complaint
This document is also known as a petition for divorce and initiates the divorce process. It will need to be filed with the court in the county where either spouse resides. The complaint will include information such as:
- The names and addresses of both spouses
- The date of marriage
- The grounds for divorce (e.g., irreconcilable differences)
- A request for child custody, support, and visitation (if applicable)
- A division of property and debts
Serve the complaint
Once the complaint has been filed, it must be served to the other spouse, and it can be done by a sheriff’s department or a process server. Once the spouse has been served, they will have 21 days to respond to the complaint.
File a response
If the other spouse does not respond to the complaint within 21 days, you can file a motion for default judgment. The divorce will move forward without the other spouse’s input or participation. However, if the other spouse responds to the complaint, they will have to file an answer. In their answer, they can agree or disagree with the information in the complaint.
Attend a case conference
Both spouses and their attorneys will attend a case conference. During this meeting, you will discuss the issues in your divorce and try to reach an agreement. If you cannot agree, schedule a trial date.
Go to trial
Your divorce will go to trial if you cannot agree during the case conference. Both sides will present their evidence and arguments to the judge at trial. The judge will then decide on all of the issues in your divorce, including child custody, support, property division, and alimony (if applicable).
File for a divorce decree
Once the judge has decided, you must file for a divorce decree. This document, also known as a divorce judgment, finalizes your divorce.
Serve the divorce decree
The divorce decree must be served to the other spouse. Once it has been served, the divorce is official, and both spouses are free to remarry.
What are the statistics on divorce in Michigan?
In Michigan, the divorce rate is 2.9 per 1,000 total population. For every 1,000 people in Michigan, two-point nine will get divorced, and the national average is 3.2 per 1,000.
There are things to consider when looking at these statistics. First, they are based on the number of divorces per 1,000 total population, including people of all ages, not just those currently married. Second, these numbers reflect the number of divorces, not people getting divorced. So, if four people get divorced and then remarry, that would still be counted as four divorces.
These statistics also don’t consider the number of people currently separated or in the process of getting divorced. In Michigan, the divorce rate is 2.9 per 1,000 total population. For every 1,000 people in Michigan, two-point nine will get divorced, and the national average is 3.2 per 1,000.
Are there support groups for divorce?
There are many different support groups for divorce. These groups can provide emotional support and practical advice for people going through a divorce and can be a great way to meet others in the same situation as you. Some of the more popular support groups for divorce include:
- Divorce Care: This group meets once a week for 13 weeks. Each meeting includes a video seminar followed by a small group discussion.
- First Things First: This program is offered by the Michigan State University Extension and is designed to help people deal with the practical aspects of divorce, such as child custody, visitation, and property division
- The Divorce Clinic: This clinic is run by attorneys and offers free legal advice for people going through a divorce.
What are the benefits of a divorce support group?
The main benefit of a divorce support group is that it can provide emotional support. Going through this can be a challenging and emotionally charged experience, and a support group can help you to cope with your emotions and to find ways to move on with your life.
Additionally, a support group can offer practical advice for dealing with the practical aspects of divorce, such as child custody, visitation, and property division. Finally, a support group can be a great way to meet other people in the same situation as you.
There are many different benefits that a divorce support group can offer. If you are considering getting divorced or are already in the process of getting divorced, you may consider joining a divorce support group.
