Michigan is a no-fault divorce state however the time it takes to complete a divorce complaint in Michigan depends on various factors. So, how long does a divorce take in Michigan? If the parties agree on all terms, the divorce timeline can take about four weeks. However, if there is disagreement and court intervention is needed, the divorce action can take longer.

Under divorce law, a divorce judgment in Michigan is typically finalized at least 6 months after filing the Complaint for Divorce. In cases of unusual hardship, such as domestic violence the 6-month mandatory waiting period can be waived by a judge based on compelling necessity to a minimum of 60-day waiting period. Statutory waiting periods allow both parties time to respond and present evidence regarding the marriage relationship.

Once all paperwork is reviewed, a judge will make a final ruling on property division, real estate, government pensions, spousal support, and child custody. If the parties agree before court intervention, the process is quicker. If not, it can exceed the minimum waiting period and take months or even years. Appeals can further delay the process. In conflict divorces the length of time varies for each case.

Contact Clarity Law Firm's skilled Michigan divorce attorneys for experienced legal representation and more information regarding your divorce petition. Call today at 313-513-1919 for a free consultation!

A Contested Divorce

A contested divorce in Michigan is a divorce that involves a disagreement between the two parties on several issues such as spousal support, division of marital assets, property settlements, custody of minor children, etc. In these cases, the length of time a divorce takes can vary greatly depending on the circumstances.

a couple discussing divorce matters with papers, wedding rings, and a broken paper heart in between them

The first step in a contested divorce is to file a Complaint for Divorce with the court. Once the complaint is filed, both parties have the chance to respond and present evidence to support their claims. The court then reviews all of the submissions as well as any additional evidence presented at trial. After this review, the court will make a ruling on each issue.

Depending on the complexity of the case, this process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months or even years.

An Uncontested Divorce

An uncontested divorce filing in Michigan is usually a much faster process than a contested divorce. An uncontested divorce means that both parties agree to the terms of the divorce, including matters such as the division of assets and child custody. In this case, the court can move quickly to approve the settlement agreement and issue a final judgment of divorce. This can typically be done within 8-12 weeks or even sooner.

Learn More: What are the differences between an uncontested and contested divorce in Michigan?

In summary, the length of time it takes to complete a divorce in Michigan will depend on whether the parties come to an agreement on the divorce terms or if they require court intervention. If all terms are agreed upon, then the process can be completed relatively quickly. However, if there are contested issues that must be resolved in court, then the process can take much longer.

How Long Does a Divorce with Kids Take?

If you are considering getting a divorce in Michigan, one of the key factors that will determine how long the process takes is whether or not you and your significant other have children together. The time frame for a divorce involving children can take longer than one without kids, as it becomes necessary to settle matters such as child custody and support.

two wedding rings sitting next to a gavel

The amount of time it takes to complete a divorce with children in Michigan depends on the complexity of the case and how cooperative the parties are. If both parties agree on all issues related to child support and custody, the process may be completed relatively quickly.

If there is a dispute that necessitates court intervention, the process of divorce may be prolonged. It is crucial to recognize that each divorce is distinct and will vary in terms of necessary time and resources.

How Long Does It Take to Process Divorce Papers in Michigan?

Getting a divorce in Michigan is a lengthy process, often requiring several months or more to complete. Generally, the length of time it takes to process divorce papers in Michigan depends on the complexity of the case and how cooperative both parties are. In uncontested divorces, where both spouses agree on all issues, the process usually takes only 6-8 weeks from filing to finalization.

In contested divorces, where disagreements exist between the parties on matters such as child custody and support, division of assets, or other issues, the process may take significantly longer. Before filing for divorce, it is important to consult an experienced divorce attorney who can help guide you through the process and provide advice on how to file for divorce promptly.

If court intervention is necessary to resolve the matter, your divorce lawyer can help make sure that all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and promptly.

How Long Does It Take to Get Your Divorce Finalized?

Divorce in Michigan can take anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on the complexity of the case and the couple's ability to work together amicably. The divorce process in Michigan follows a strict timeline, beginning with the initial divorce filing fee and ending with a final order of divorce.

The first step in filing for divorce is to submit a Complaint for divorce to the court. The court then reviews the Complaint and typically issues a Summons which is served upon the other party. Once both parties have filed their responses and any optional documents such as financial statements or settlement agreements, they may proceed to a hearing or trial date. If the parties can reach a settlement agreement, they can submit it to the court for approval.

a gavel sitting behind a house that's split in half with a family on both sides

Otherwise, the judge will make a ruling on any contested issues. Once the judge has issued a final order of divorce, it typically takes about 30 days for the divorce to be finalized.

What's the Fastest Way to Get Divorced in Michigan?

For married couples who wish to end their marriage quickly, an uncontested no-fault divorce is the fastest path to a legal divorce. This route requires both spouses to agree on all aspects of the divorce, including child custody and division of assets.

Spouses can save valuable time by utilizing the online service www.midivorcepapers.com, which assists with the pre-filing stage and provides necessary court forms and filing instructions. This involves a short qualification process that ensures the couple is a good fit for an uncontested no-fault divorce.

After qualifying, individuals can obtain a quick divorce in Michigan without the need for lengthy proceedings like trial or mediation. The entire process can be completed in as little as 60 days.

Can a Lawyer Speed Up a Divorce?

Having a lawyer from Clarity Law Firm can speed up the divorce process in Michigan. Filing for divorce in Michigan is complex and can take months to finalize. Factors like waiting periods, property division, and child custody arrangements affect the time it takes to finalize a divorce.

At Clarity Law Firm, our family law attorneys can guide you through the process and ensure all paperwork is filed correctly and promptly. We work to finalize your divorce quickly while addressing all related issues. With our experienced attorneys, your divorce will be efficiently and promptly finalized.