Grand Rapids, MI Divorce Attorney

Guiding Families Through The Divorce Process in Kent County. Free Consults.

Are you contemplating a divorce in Michigan, or have you already filed? When going through this life-changing event, having a trusted Grand Rapids divorce attorney should not be optional. You will be facing some major decisions that can affect your life and the lives of your children for many years ahead. Our attorneys at Tanis Schultz are well-versed in handling such sensitive matters with the utmost compassion and professionalism.

Dissolving a marriage is more than just separating physically or emotionally. It involves the disentangling of finances and property, resolving issues of child custody and visitation, determining which parent will have primary custody and which parent will provide child support, establishing spousal support/alimony, and innumerable other issues, large and small, in Grand Rapids. Our team provides personalized strategies tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring that each legal avenue is thoroughly explored and understood.

Are you contemplating filing for a divorce? Call Tanis Schultz today at (616) 227-3737 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our divorce lawyers in Grand Rapids.

What Issues Need to Be Resolved Before Finalizing a Divorce in Michigan?

In any Michigan divorce, you will need to resolve the following issues in order to finalize your divorce:

• Child custody and visitation
• Child support
• Spousal support
• The division of marital assets, property, and debts

Tackling these issues early can help you transition smoothly into your new chapter of life. It is important to work closely with your attorney to ensure that all aspects are reviewed thoroughly. Financial transparency between spouses during this phase can avoid disputes and facilitate a more equitable division of assets.

Is Michigan a No-Fault Divorce State?

Michigan is a no-fault divorce state, which can facilitate the divorce process since evidence of marital misconduct is not necessary. Fault may influence a court’s decisions, however, concerning child custody, asset division, and spousal support. It is only necessary to demonstrate to the court that your marriage has been irretrievably broken with no hope of reconciliation. Either spouse may file for a divorce in Michigan regardless of whether the other spouse wants one or not. Understanding this legal framework helps you set realistic expectations and prepare for possible implications on personal and financial levels.

Should I Go For a Contested or Uncontested Divorce in Michigan?

Our Grand Rapids divorce attorneys handle both uncontested and complex contested divorce cases involving children, spousal support, complicated marital assets, and more. We will help you try to resolve any differences with your spouse through negotiation. However, if you and your spouse cannot come to an agreement on your divorce issues, we have extensive litigation experience. Additionally, we employ conflict resolution strategies and mediation techniques to help facilitate smoother negotiations. Our commitment is to lessen the emotional toll on families while securing a fair outcome.

Does It Matter Who Files for Divorce First in Michigan?

In Michigan, it typically does not matter who files for divorce first. The state of Michigan is a "no-fault" divorce state, which means that either spouse can file for divorce without proving that the other spouse did something wrong. Instead, the only requirement for divorce in Michigan is that the marriage has broken down irretrievably, and there is no reasonable likelihood that the marriage can be preserved. However, understanding the timing and preparing your documents thoroughly can make the process more efficient.

When it comes to the actual divorce proceedings, the court will generally focus on issues such as property division, child custody, and spousal support, regardless of which spouse initiated the divorce. However, there are some practical considerations to keep in mind. For example, the spouse who files for divorce first may have more time to prepare their case and choose the jurisdiction in which to file. Additionally, the spouse who files first may have an initial advantage in setting the tone for the divorce proceedings.

Overall, while there may be some tactical advantages to filing for divorce first, it is unlikely to have a significant impact on the outcome of the divorce. However, consulting with your attorney early in the process can provide strategic insights into how best to proceed in your specific situation.

What is the Process of Filing for Divorce in Michigan?

The divorce process begins with filing a complaint in the circuit court of the county where either spouse resides. The key steps include:

• Filing the Complaint – One spouse files a petition outlining the desire to end the marriage and any requested relief, such as child custody or spousal support.
• Serving the Complaint – The other spouse must be officially notified of the proceedings.
• Response – The responding spouse has a limited time to file an answer, agreeing or contesting the terms proposed.
• Discovery Phase – Both parties gather financial and personal information to build their cases.
• Negotiation and Mediation – Many divorces are resolved through negotiation or mediation rather than trial.
• Final Judgment – If an agreement is reached, the judge finalizes the divorce. If contested, a trial may be necessary.

A Grand Rapids divorce lawyer helps clients understand each step and ensures compliance with all legal requirements.

Contact Our Divorce Lawyers in Grand Rapids Today

At Tanis Schultz, we have helped thousands of individuals navigate the challenges of the divorce process. Our Grand Rapids divorce lawyers are here to address your concerns, answer your questions, and provide the sound counsel you need at every stage of the proceeding. We negotiate on your behalf, provide mediation services, or take your case to court when necessary. Our family law team is passionate about protecting your legal rights and helping you pursue the best possible outcome for your future. Our approach integrates a profound understanding of Michigan's family laws with cutting-edge technology, equipping us to back your interests effectively.

Contact Tanis Schultz or reach out online today to get started with our Grand Rapids divorce attorneys.

Frequently Asked Questions about Divorce in Grand Rapids

How Does Mediation Work During a Divorce?

Mediation is a confidential process where a neutral third-party mediator assists divorcing couples in reaching a mutually agreeable settlement. In Grand Rapids, mediation is often encouraged to resolve disputes regarding child custody, asset division, and more, avoiding the need for courtroom battles. The mediator helps facilitate discussions, ensuring that both parties are heard and understood, which can lead to more satisfactory outcomes.

At Tanis Schultz, we can support you through the mediation process, providing relevant legal insights and ensuring that your rights and interests are represented. This approach often results in faster, more amicable resolutions, allowing both parties to move forward without prolonged legal entanglements.

What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid During a Divorce?

Divorce is a complex process, and certain missteps can lead to significant long-term consequences. A lack of financial preparedness, such as not accounting for future expenses or debts, can result in financial instability post-divorce. It's essential to have a clear, comprehensive financial picture to avoid oversights. Additionally, letting emotions dictate decisions rather than focusing on practical outcomes can complicate negotiations.

Disregarding legal advice or failing to fully understand the implications of legal documents is also detrimental. Our goal at Tanis Schultz is to provide you with sound counsel to navigate these potential pitfalls, ensuring that your settlement is both fair and sustainable.

How Is Spousal Support Determined in Michigan?

Spousal support or alimony in Michigan is determined by various factors, including the duration of the marriage, the income and earning potential of both spouses, and the standard of living established during the marriage. The court considers these factors to ensure that neither party faces undue financial hardship post-divorce.

Each case is unique, and our attorneys at Tanis Schultz work diligently to ensure that all relevant factors are presented to secure fair support outcomes. We understand the nuances of local regulations and advocate strongly for our clients' fiscal needs.

How Long Does It Take to Finalize a Divorce in Grand Rapids?

The duration of a divorce in Grand Rapids can vary significantly based on the complexity of the case and the level of contention between spouses. An uncontested divorce can take as little as two to three months, while contested divorces might extend beyond a year due to negotiations and court schedules.

Preparation and timely response to legal proceedings can expedite the process, and our team at Tanis Schultz is committed to advancing your divorce efficiently while protecting your interests.

How Does Home Ownership Affect Divorce Proceedings?

Ownership of a home or other shared property can complicate divorce proceedings, particularly when both spouses have contributed to the mortgage or maintenance costs. Determining how to equitably divide such property involves reviewing financial investments, current market values, and any prenuptial agreements in play.

In Michigan, equitable division does not always mean equal, and our attorneys are skilled in navigating these intricacies to protect your property rights during a divorce.

Additional Reading:

• Domestic Violence and Divorce in Michigan
• What You Should Do Before Filing for Divorce