Common Mistakes People Make During Divorce in West Michigan (and How to Avoid Them)
Going through a divorce is stressful, emotional, and confusing. Because so much happens quickly, people often make mistakes that affect their financial security, parenting time, and long-term future. Fortunately, avoiding these mistakes is entirely possible with the right information and support. If you live in Allegan, Kent, Ottawa, Barry, or Van Buren County, this guide will help you understand the most common divorce mistakes in West Michigan, and how to protect yourself at every step.
Since Michigan is a no-fault divorce state, many people assume the process is simple. However, local court procedures, filing deadlines, financial disclosure requirements, and parenting time issues can make the process more complicated than expected. Before beginning, it is important to understand the pitfalls so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Before you begin, you should understand these pitfalls so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. This guide highlights the most common divorce mistakes in Michigan and shows you how to avoid them.
1. Divorce Mistakes in Michigan: Not Responding After Being Served Divorce Papers
One of the biggest mistakes people make is that they ignore the divorce documents after someone serves them. served. In Michigan, you usually have 21 days to respond if served in person. If you fail to file an Answer, the court can enter a default judgment, which may give your spouse everything they requested.
This mistake is incredibly common in Allegan and Kent Counties, where people often underestimate how serious a Summons and Complaint truly are. Because losing your rights early in the case can have long-lasting consequences, you should respond immediately and seek legal advice right away.
For more on Michigan divorce procedures, the Michigan Courts provide helpful guidance:
https://www.courts.michigan.gov
2. Posting About the Divorce on Social Media
Another common mistake is sharing your thoughts or frustrations online. Although venting may feel comforting, social media posts, messages, photos, and even comments can be used as evidence in your divorce case. Screenshots last forever, even when your privacy settings seem secure.
In West Michigan, judges expect both parents to act respectfully and in the child’s best interests. Therefore, anything posted online that appears angry, reckless, or inappropriate can harm your custody or parenting time position. Instead, consider speaking to a counselor, close friend, or your attorney directly. Because emotions run high, being cautious online can prevent major problems later.
3. Common Michigan Divorce Mistakes: Hiding Money or Assets
Many divorce mistakes in Michigan involve finances, and one of the most serious occurs when someone tries to hide money or assets. Some people attempt this because they believe it will help them keep more during the final division. If the court discovers hidden assets, the judge may award a larger share of the marital estate to your spouse.
Instead of hiding information, work with your attorney to understand what is considered marital property and what is separate property. Because transparency protects your credibility, being upfront about your financial situation is always the smarter choice.
4. Moving Out of the Marital Home Too Quickly
Many people make the mistake of immediately moving out after a divorce is filed. Although moving out may feel easier emotionally, it can have unintended consequences. When one parent leaves the marital home, the court may view the remaining parent as the child’s primary caregiver. Consequently, this may influence temporary custody or parenting time recommendations.
In Allegan, Barry, and Van Buren Counties, Friend of the Court investigations often consider who has been the child’s primary daily caretaker. Therefore, before moving out, speak with a Michigan divorce attorney to understand how relocating might impact your case.
5. Divorce Mistakes in Michigan Caused by Emotional Decisions
Divorce is emotional, and feeling hurt, angry, or overwhelmed is normal. However, allowing emotions to guide decisions can lead to poor long-term outcomes. For example, some people refuse reasonable settlements simply because they want to “win,” while others give away too much because they want to end the process quickly.
Because the decisions you make during divorce affect your finances, home, and children for years to come, it is important to stay level-headed. Working closely with an attorney, counselor, or mediator can help you make logical decisions instead of emotional ones.
6. Failing to Gather Financial Documents Early
Another mistake many West Michigan residents make is waiting too long to gather financial information. Divorce requires documentation such as:
- Tax returns
- Pay stubs
- Bank statements
- Mortgage details
- Retirement account balances
- Debt and loan information
Since these documents help determine support, property division, and attorney strategy, gathering them early is essential. Furthermore, staying organized helps you feel more in control during a difficult time.
If you need help understanding your financial obligations or rights during divorce, visit our Family Law Services page for detailed guidance.
7. Not Following Temporary Orders
Temporary orders are common in Michigan divorce cases. These orders may address custody, parenting time, child support, spousal support, use of the home, and payment of bills. Although temporary orders are “temporary,” violating them can severely damage your case.
For instance, failing to return the children on time, refusing parenting time, or missing support payments may lead to enforcement actions. Judges in Kent and Ottawa Counties take compliance very seriously. Consequently, staying consistent with temporary orders is crucial for maintaining credibility.
8. Underestimating the Importance of Mediation
Mediation is often required in West Michigan divorce cases, and many couples underestimate how valuable it can be. Instead of leaving decisions to a judge, mediation gives both spouses a chance to resolve disagreements collaboratively.
Because mediation is usually less expensive, faster, and more flexible than litigation, taking it seriously can save time and reduce conflict, especially when children are involved. In Allegan, Kent, and Ottawa Counties, courts frequently favor mediation before scheduling a trial. Therefore, preparing well for mediation is an important step toward a smoother divorce process.
9. Parenting Time Myths That Lead to Divorce Mistakes in Michigan
Many people rely on hearsay or outdated information when navigating custody. For example, some believe that mothers automatically receive primary custody or that children can choose which parent to live with at a certain age. However, Michigan law focuses on the best interests of the child, and every case is evaluated individually.
In West Michigan courts, judges consider factors such as the child’s relationship with each parent, stability, schooling, community involvement, and the ability of each parent to provide a safe and loving environment. Consequently, understanding the actual legal factors can help you prepare more effectively.
10. Not Seeking Legal Help Soon Enough
Finally, one of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting too long to speak with a divorce attorney. The early stages of a divorce case are critical, especially when determining deadlines, parenting time schedules, and temporary support. Because every county handles cases differently, early guidance from a local Michigan divorce attorney fully protects you.
Attorneys familiar with the courts in Allegan, Kent, Ottawa, Barry, and Van Buren Counties understand local procedures, judicial preferences, and Friend of the Court processes. As a result, hiring an attorney early often leads to a smoother, more organized, and less stressful divorce.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the most common divorce mistakes in Michigan can help you protect your rights and make better decisions throughout your West Michigan divorce. By responding quickly, organizing documents, avoiding social media pitfalls, and seeking reliable legal support, you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
If you are facing a divorce in West Michigan and need guidance, Legacy Legal & Business Services is here to help. We support individuals and families throughout Allegan, Kent, Ottawa, Barry, and Van Buren Counties, and we are committed to protecting your rights every step of the way. Call us today at (616) 681-0100 to schedule a free confidential consultation and gain the support you deserve. You can also contact us on our website www.legacylegalbusiness.com.