Divorce is a stressful and emotionally challenging process. Filing for divorce without a lawyer can be a cost-effective way to approach this process. In Michigan, it is possible to file for divorce without representation, but it’s important to understand the legal requirements and procedures involved. This article will guide you through the process of filing for divorce without a lawyer in Michigan.
Gather Required Information and Forms
Before filing for divorce, you need to gather all the necessary information and forms. The following documents are required to file for divorce in Michigan:
- Complaint for Divorce form
- Summons
- Verified Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Income
- Notice of Hearing
- Friend of the Court Handbook (if children are involved)
You can get these forms from the Michigan State Court website or the county clerk’s office where you plan to file for divorce.
Meet Residency Requirements
To file for divorce in Michigan, you must meet residency requirements. You or your spouse must have lived in Michigan for at least 180 days prior to filing for divorce.
Fill Out the Forms
Fill out the forms carefully and accurately. Any errors or omissions could delay the process. The Complaint for Divorce form requires information about you, your spouse, and your marriage, including:
- Names and addresses of the spouses and their children, if any
- Reasons for divorce
- Information about property owned by the spouses
- Desired terms for child custody, visitation, and child support
File the Forms
Take the completed forms to the county clerk’s office where you plan to file for divorce. You need to pay the filing fee at the time of filing the forms. The county clerk will give you a file number and a copy of the forms that show the date they were filed.
Serve Your Spouse
After filing the forms, you need to serve your spouse. This involves giving your spouse a copy of the forms you filed, along with a summons. You can serve your spouse by:
- Having a friend or relative over the age of 18 deliver the papers to your spouse
- Hiring a process server to deliver the papers
- Mailing the papers to your spouse via certified mail with a return receipt requested
Your spouse has 21 days to respond after being served. If your spouse does not respond, you can file a Motion for Default, which means you can proceed with the divorce without your spouse’s input.
Attend Hearings
After filing the forms and serving your spouse, you must attend court hearings. The court will review your information and make decisions about property division, child custody, visitation, and child support. If you and your spouse cannot agree on the terms, the court will make decisions for you.
Conclusion
Filing for divorce without a lawyer in Michigan can be challenging, but it is possible. By following the above steps, you can file for divorce in Michigan and save money on legal fees. If you have any questions or concerns, consider seeking the advice of a qualified family law attorney or mediator. Good luck!