Divorce Attorneys in Grand Rapids, MI

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.

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, dividing marital assets and debts, establishing spousal support/alimony, and innumerable other issues large and small in Grand Rapids.

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.

Contested & 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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

Additional Reading:

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

Contact Tanis Schultz today to get started with our Grand Rapids divorce attorneys.