Grand Rapids Divorce Attorneys

Many people say that it is much harder to get “unmarried” than to get married. Anyone who is considering divorce needs a lot of information. For starters, a party who has resided in the state for 180 days or more may file a Michigan divorce action. The party files the suit in the county of residence, as long as he or she has resided there for ten days. At the Van Den Heuvel Law Office, we have extensive experience handling all matters related to divorce actions in numerous Michigan counties. If you own a business, significant real estate properties, or other assets that may be difficult to divide equitably, you need a knowledgeable and aggressive attorney to protect your interests and your family.

Divorce in Michigan

If you and your spouse are considering divorce, there are three basic means for doing so:

• Divorce. Michigan is a no-fault state. The only ground for divorce in Michigan is that there has been a “breakdown of the marriage relationship.” In other words, the court has the power to formally end the relationship between the parties regardless of who did what to whom. Who is at fault may play a role, however, in the court’s determination of child custody, property rights, and spousal support.
• Separate maintenance. The initial filing for separate maintenance is almost identical to the filing of a divorce. When a judgment is entered, the parties are divorced economically or financially, but they are not divorced from the bonds of matrimony. Separate maintenance is commonly used when the couple does not believe in divorce for religious reasons or when one spouse needs to remain on the other spouse’s medical insurance.
• Annulment. A legal annulment is based upon either the inability to marry at the time of the marriage or fraud in the contract of marriage. Examples of grounds for an annulment include same-sex couples or the incapacity to marry due to age or a mental condition. A Michigan annulment is not based upon the length of time you have been married.

Things to Keep in Mind While Filing for Divorce

There are numerous issues to consider when going through a divorce. Whether it is an uncontested divorce (spouses agree on all matters) or a highly contentious matter, certain issues need to be resolved, including:

• Child custody, parenting time, and support. Where your children will live, who will make the major decisions in their lives, and determining an appropriate parenting time schedule are often difficult areas for spouses to reach an agreement. The noncustodial parent must also pay child support, which can be a difficult topic as well.
• Spousal support. If you or your spouse needs maintenance payments, we can help determine the proper amount under your individual circumstances.
• Asset division. Whether you own very little property or significant and complex assets such as a business or real estate holdings, you need an advocate to ensure you obtain a fair and equitable asset division settlement in your divorce.

If you and your spouse agree to the divorce and have worked out these issues, the process is much faster with effective counsel. However, if an amicable resolution is not possible, Howard Van Den Heuvel fights to achieve a positive outcome for you and your family.

Get Help From a Qualified Michigan Divorce Attorney

If you need assistance ending your marriage, contact the Van Den Heuvel Law Office for an initial consultation. We are conveniently located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Please contact us today at 616-698-0000 or online. We are also available on Skype by appointment.