Divorce Process Timeline in Michigan
Are you wondering how long a divorce in Michigan might take? At ReedsAndReeds, we understand that this process can seem daunting and time-consuming. As experienced divorce lawyers, we’ve helped many clients navigate the complexities and timelines of Michigan divorces. In this article, I’ll break down the different factors that influence the duration of a divorce, so you know what to expect from start to finish.
As stated by Michigan Legal Help, a divorce in Michigan takes at least 60 days if there are no children. If children are involved, it takes at least 6 months. The process can take longer based on various factors.
Average Time for Divorce in Michigan
The average time for a divorce in Michigan is often around 60 days minimum but can extend to several months depending on unique case factors.
Typically getting a divorce in Michigan can be quick or take a long time, depending on the situation. If both people agree on everything, like child care, dividing property, and support payments, it can be done in 60 to 90 days. But if they don’t agree, it can take up to a year or more.
Several factors can slow down a divorce, such as complicated issues, many court cases, and how hard everyone works to resolve the issues. In the most basic sense, it’s important to have a good lawyer to help you through the process.
Michigan law says there is a mandatory 60-day waiting period after filing for divorce before the judge can finalize it, no matter what. During this time, you can try to settle differences or go to mediation to avoid a long court fight.
Factors Affecting Divorce Duration
Financial stability, presence of children, and level of conflict are key factors affecting the duration of a divorce.
In short, one reason a divorce might take longer is if it’s complicated. If there are arguments over property, child custody, or payments, it can stretch out the process. How willing both people are to negotiate and agree can also affect how long it takes.
The laws in the place where you’re getting divorced can make a difference too. Different states or countries have different rules like waiting periods or mandatory mediation sessions that can influence the timeline.
The court’s schedule is another factor. If the courts are busy with many cases, it might take longer to get a date for a hearing or trial. At its simplest, how well the two people and their lawyers get along can also impact the duration. If everyone is willing to work together and compromise, things might go faster. But if there’s a lot of disagreement, it could take more time.
Lastly, dealing with finances like property, debts, and income can make things slower. If there’s a lot to sort out, like valuing a business or dividing complex assets, it will likely take more time.
In short, a divorce can take longer due to complications, legal requirements, court schedules, how well people cooperate, and financial issues.
Contested vs. Uncontested Divorces
As was previously noted in a contested divorce, the inability of spouses to agree on matters like asset division, child custody, and alimony often leads to courtroom battles and extended legal processes.
You know, in a contested divorce, a judge often needs to step in to solve disputes between the spouses.
On the other hand, an uncontested divorce happens when both spouses agree on all the details without going to court. This usually makes the divorce faster and cheaper.
Contested divorces can be very stressful and expensive because both sides must argue their case and negotiate. This often drags out the divorce and increases legal costs.
Come to think of it, in contrast, uncontested divorces are usually less stressful and friendlier because both spouses work together to agree on everything. This makes the process smoother and more cooperative.
The main difference between contested and uncontested divorces is how well the spouses get along. Contested divorces involve disagreements that need a judge’s help, while uncontested divorces involve both spouses agreeing without court intervention.
Steps in the Michigan Divorce Process
As previously highlighted, the Michigan divorce process involves crucial steps like filing a complaint, exchanging financial information, mediation, and finalizing the decree.
Fundamentally, the first step in getting a divorce is for one spouse to file a form with the court. This form must then be given to the other spouse, who can respond. Both spouses need to share information about their money, property, and debts. Often, they will also need to go to mediation to try to agree on things like dividing property, child custody, and support.
In general, terms, if they agree, they usually give those terms to the court for approval. If they can’t agree, the case goes to a judge who will make the final decisions. Once the judge has decided, a final divorce decree is issued, which officially ends the marriage.
How to Speed Up Your Divorce Case
Recalling what we discussed effective communication with your spouse on key issues like child custody, property division, and alimony can significantly expedite your divorce case.
By and large, it’s important to give your lawyer all the needed documents and information as soon as possible, so they can work on your case without delays. You might also think about other ways to solve disagreements, like mediation or working together outside of court, which can make things go faster.
In other words, being flexible and ready to compromise can help things move along more smoothly.
In Closure
Building upon the previous idea, in conclusion, the duration of a divorce in Michigan varies depending on individual circumstances.
What ReedsAndReeds is suggesting you start is, generally, an uncontested divorce can take as little as two months, while contested divorces may take a year or more to be finalized. It is important to consult with a knowledgeable attorney to work through the legal process efficiently and effectively.
