Skip to main content
Find a Lawyer

Michigan Divorce & Separation Lawyers

Select a city or county to find Michigan Divorce lawyers near you.

Browse Divorce Lawyers in Michigan

sponsored link

Confidently Hire a Michigan Lawyer for Your Divorce Case

A legal separation is a court order that mandates the legal rights and duties of a married couple while they are living apart. A divorce is the legal end of a marriage. There are advantages and disadvantages to both. There are many things to consider when contemplating legal separation vs. a divorce, including:

  • Health care and other benefits
  • Marital status
  • Debts and liabilities
  • Property rights and division
  • Decision making
  • Spousal support

The divorce process can vary, according to the state you live in and the specific circumstances for seeking a divorce. Some general steps that are commonly included in the divorce process are:

  • Consultation with an attorney
  • Determining grounds for divorce
  • Preparation and filing of divorce petition
  • Negotiation and settlement
  • Court proceedings and hearings
  • Finalizing the divorce

The legal theory underlying annulment is that the marriage was never valid to begin with, meaning that the marriage never existed in the eyes of the law. In legal terms, marriages subject to annulment are classified as "void" or "voidable," and are sometimes called "nullified" marriages. Annulment is distinct from divorce in that a divorce terminates a previously valid marriage.

There are several legal implications individuals should examine when considering divorce. While state laws and individual circumstances vary, common areas to be aware of are:

  • Division of assets and debts
  • Spousal support
  • Child custody and support
  • Tax considerations
  • Insurance coverage
  • Estate planning

Getting a divorce can have serious, long-term effects, both emotionally and legally. There are also strict legal requirements that cover everything from choosing a method of legal separation to selecting where and how to file, to deciding how the property should be divided. The divorce process can be confusing, especially without legal assistance. FindLaw's directory can connect you with trusted divorce lawyers in Michigan to guide you through the divorce process and minimize the stress you experience during this difficult time.

There are several distinctions between divorce and separation.

First, legal separation may be a court-mandated step of the divorce process, with some states requiring that potential divorcees spend some time living apart in a form of legal separation before proceeding to formal divorce.

Outside of this requirement, legal separation is reversible, while divorce is not. Once you have been declared divorced from a former spouse, there is no going back. Legally separated spouses retain the right to inherit property as well, and may not remarry (as they are still considered married, despite separation).

FindLaw's Lawyer Directory is the largest online directory of attorneys. Browse more than one million listings, covering everything from divorce to starting a business to dealing with debt.

Detailed law firm profiles have information like the firm's area of law, office location, office hours, and payment options. Attorney profiles include the biography, education and training, and client recommendations of an attorney to help you decide who to hire.

Use the contact form on the profiles to connect with a Michigan attorney for legal advice.

Finding the right Divorce attorney starts with knowing what to evaluate. When reviewing Michigan attorney profiles, consider the following:

  • Experience. Look for an attorney who regularly handles cases similar to yours. Relevant experience is one of the strongest indicators of how well an attorney will serve you.
  • Credentials. How long has the attorney been in practice? Do they hold any board certifications or recognition from professional legal organizations in Michigan?
  • Cost. How are the attorney's fees structured? Many attorneys offer a free initial consultation where you can discuss fees and get a realistic sense of what your case may involve.
  • Communication and comfort level. You will be sharing personal details about your situation. Choose an attorney who listens carefully, responds promptly, and explains your options in plain terms.
  • Location. An attorney who regularly practices in your area will be familiar with the local courts, judges, and procedures that apply to your case.

Do I Need a Lawyer?

Make informed decisions with useful legal information.