Divorce Attorney Grand Rapids

Divorce Attorney Grand Rapids

If you are going through a divorce, you are likely feeling a whirlwind of emotions. You are likely wondering what you will gain or lose in the divorce, and what your future looks like. However, while sorting through these emotions, there are also legal issues involved. A divorce attorney in Grand Rapids can outline the legal requirements you must meet, help you secure a fair settlement, and make the entire process much easier for you.

What are the Grounds for Divorce in Grand Rapids?

Sometimes, married people simply grow apart and they mutually agree to end their marriage. Other times though, one person is responsible for the marriage ending due to their own misconduct. For example, a spouse may develop a substance abuse problem or have an extramarital affair. Regardless of the reason for the split, any spouse who wishes to file for divorce in Michigan can only file based on no-fault grounds.

Spouses that file no-fault divorce must simply state that the marital relationship has broken down to the point that there is no chance of reconciliation. The benefit of no-fault divorces is that the spouse who is filing does not have to prove fault, and it helps cases move more easily through the courts, as well. While the grounds for divorce in Grand Rapids are always no-fault, it is important to bring up any wrongdoing during the divorce process. In some cases, it can help when family law judges make decisions on property division, child support, and alimony.

What are the Waiting Periods for Divorce in Grand Rapids?

Making the decision to get a divorce often takes time, but actually obtaining a divorce does not happen automatically, either. All spouses getting a divorce in Grand Rapids must comply with the mandatory waiting period.

Couples that do not have children together must wait 60 days from the date of filing before the divorce is finalized. That means that even when the couple agrees on all terms of the divorce, a judge will not grant it until the 60 days have passed. Couples that do have children together must wait six months before their divorce can be finalized. 

If you can show that the waiting period would cause you or your children undue hardship, you can ask a judge to waive the six-month waiting period. However, all couples must wait at least two months before a divorce is finalized, even if a judge has waived the longer waiting period.

Our Grand Rapids Divorce Attorney Can Help With Your Case

Michigan has many legal requirements for divorce, and the waiting periods and grounds for divorce are just two of them. At Van Den Heuvel Law Office, our divorce attorney in Grand Rapids is here to help. Our skilled attorney will make sure you fulfill the requirements, provide the sound legal advice you need, and help you secure the best settlement possible. Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help with your case.