How to File for Divorce in Michigan: A Step-by-Step Guide for West Michigan Couples
Filing for divorce in Michigan can feel overwhelming, but understanding the process can bring clarity and peace of mind. Whether you’re in Grand Rapids, Holland, Allegan, or any West Michigan community, this guide walks you through the steps of filing for divorce in Michigan, with insights from our experienced family law attorney team.
Who Can File for Divorce in Michigan?
To file for divorce in Michigan, you or your spouse must meet the following requirements:
- You’ve lived in Michigan for at least 180 days
- You’ve lived in the county where you’re filing for at least 10 days
If you live in Kent County, Ottawa County, Allegan County, or surrounding areas, your divorce will be filed in the family division of your local circuit court.
Step 1: Prepare and File the Divorce Complaint
The divorce process begins by filing a Complaint for Divorce with the circuit court. This document outlines basic facts about the marriage and requests the court to grant a divorce.
Depending on your situation, you may also file documents related to:
- Child custody
- Parenting time
- Spousal support
- Property and debt division
Learn more about our Divorce and Custody Services.
Step 2: Serve Your Spouse
After filing, you must legally “serve” your spouse with divorce papers. This can be done via a process server, sheriff, or by certified mail.
Your spouse then has 21–28 days to respond, depending on how they’re served.
Step 3: Temporary Orders (If Needed)
If needed, you can request temporary orders to address immediate concerns like:
- Who stays in the home
- Child custody and support
- Payment of bills or debts
These can be critical in high-conflict cases or when children are involved.
Step 4: Financial Disclosure
Both parties are required to disclose their financial information. This helps the court (and attorneys) fairly divide assets and debts.
This includes:
- Bank accounts
- Real estate
- Vehicles
- Retirement accounts
- Debts
Our legal team helps clients in West Michigan ensure that no asset is missed in the process.
Step 5: Negotiate a Settlement or Proceed to Trial
Most divorces in Michigan are resolved through negotiation or mediation, not trial.
Options include:
- Reaching an agreement directly or through your attorneys
- Attending divorce mediation (especially in Kent and Ottawa Counties where it’s often required)
- Proceeding to trial if an agreement cannot be reached
Interested in mediation? Explore our Domestic Relations Mediation Services.
Step 6: Final Judgment of Divorce
Once all issues are resolved, either through agreement or trial, the court will enter a Judgment of Divorce. This final document outlines:
- Division of property and debts
- Custody and parenting time
- Child and spousal support (if applicable)
There’s a 60-day waiting period for divorces without children and a 6-month waiting period if minor children are involved.
Do I Need a Lawyer to File for Divorce in Michigan?
While it’s possible to file for divorce on your own, most people benefit greatly from working with an experienced Michigan divorce attorney especially when:
- Children or custody are involved
- There are disputes over property or support
- You want to protect your rights and financial future
At Legacy Legal & Business Services, PLC, we provide compassionate and strategic legal guidance tailored to West Michigan families. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Ready to take the next step? Let us help you navigate the divorce process with clarity and confidence.
Serving Grand Rapids, Allegan, Holland, Zeeland, Kent, Barry, Van Buren, and Ottawa Counties.
Contact us today to schedule a free confidential consultation by visiting our website www.legacylegalbusiness.com or call us at (616) 681-0100.