Michigan is an equitable distribution state, meaning that all assets acquired during marriage must be split fairly in a divorce. Determining what constitutes a marital asset acquired during marriage can be difficult, especially if marital assets were held together in...
What are some differences between divorce and legal separation?
When you and your spouse decided that your marriage cannot continue as it is, many people choose to divorce. However, legal separation is another option which has its own benefits and drawbacks. Definitions The key difference between the two is how intertwined your...
Common sources of co-parenting disagreements
Now that you’ve divorced, you can take the time to build a stable life for yourself and your children. While you’re doing so, don’t lose sight of the fact that your ex is likely to be taking the same steps in their life. You may not have the same approach and goals to...
The parenting plan as a guide
Divorce is not something that couples in Michigan should take lightly, especially when children are part of the picture. Splitting up with kids happens often, even though no two divorces are the same. One element that we want you to become familiar with is the...
What is effective co-parent communication?
Co-parenting is very popular in the modern court room. It used to be that children of divorce most commonly ended up in the sole custody of the mother, but that is no longer the case. Co-parenting, when done right, has been shown to give a myriad of benefits for the...
Should I consider a postnuptial agreement?
It is likely that you are familiar with a prenuptial agreement: it is when both parties of a marriage get together prior to the knot being tied and decide on matters of legal and financial import. They tend to be very common in marriages in Michigan where one party...
Can I move out of state with my children?
Once your divorce is final, you may want to make changes in your life. One of those may be moving to a new area. It could be a different state or just another area of Michigan. In any case, if you have physical custody of your children, you must find out if you can...
Automatic 50/50 custody in Michigan
In 2017, FOX17 News reported on the heated debates sparked by House Bill 4691. Also known as the Shared Parenting Bill, if passed into law, it would make 50/50 joint custody automatic between parents in Michigan. Many people believe a bill like this may put an end to...
Michigan family law: Dealing with a child custody issue?
If you are divorced or separated -- or preparing for either -- there are a lot of things you and your ex need to figure out, especially if you have children. Child custody issues, for example, can be a source of serious contention. Even if you think you've got...
Michigan family law: Custody handoff details matter
If you have chosen to call it quits on your relationship, but you have children with your ex, there is a lot you will need to figure out when it comes to child custody. A custody order does not just state how often each parent will get time with the children; it can...