FAQs

In Michigan, alimony determination involves several factors. These include the duration of the marriage, each spouse's financial capacity, age, health, and ability to work. The court also considers the marital standard of living, each spouse's current and future needs, and the property division agreement. These elements help establish both the amount and duration of alimony payments.

Child custody decisions in Michigan prioritize the children's best interests. Generally, both parents maintain access to their children unless one is deemed unfit. If parents can negotiate an arrangement, it often results in a more satisfactory custody and visitation plan. When agreement isn't possible, a judge will evaluate 13 different factors to determine the most suitable custody arrangement for the children involved.

Arbitration and mediation are both alternative dispute resolution methods, but they differ in process and outcome. In mediation, parties work together to find a mutually agreeable solution, often without lawyers present. Arbitration, on the other hand, involves an arbitrator who listens to both sides and then imposes a binding resolution to the dispute.

Mediation offers several benefits compared to traditional court proceedings. It's typically more cost-effective and time-efficient. The process allows for greater flexibility in scheduling and location. Additionally, because mediation is more personalized and gives parties more control, participants often feel more satisfied with the outcomes and are more likely to comply with the agreed-upon terms.

While it's possible to file for divorce without legal representation, working with an experienced attorney offers significant advantages. A lawyer can inform you of your rights and protect your interests, minimize costly mistakes, help you make clear-headed decisions, prioritize your children's welfare, and ensure fair division of complex assets. An attorney's expertise can be particularly valuable in navigating the legal complexities of divorce proceedings.

In Michigan, the divorce process has minimum waiting periods. For couples without children, the state mandates a 60-day waiting period from the filing of the initial complaint. For couples with children, the minimum waiting period extends to six months. However, if spouses cannot reach an agreement independently, the divorce process may take considerably longer than these minimum timeframes.