Divorce

Ending a marriage brings many questions about your home, your finances, your children, and your future. In Michigan, the divorce process follows a set legal path, but every case is personal. With the right guidance from Bloomfield Hills divorce attorneys, you can protect your rights and move toward a fair resolution with far less stress.

At Robbins & Licavoli, we help people understand each step and make informed choices. Call our team to schedule a consultation and see how we can assist you.

Who We Help

Divorce looks different for every family. We believe every client deserves personal attention. You are not a case number here. We take time to learn your needs, answer your questions, and build a strategy around your goals. We work with people in many situations, including:

• People who are considering divorce. You may be weighing your options, but feel unsure about what would happen with the house, the money, the children, support, or the court process. We help you understand your rights before you decide anything.
• People who are ready to file. You know you want a divorce, but you may not know what paperwork is required, how your spouse gets served, or what happens once the case begins. We handle the details and explain each step.
• Parents who need to settle where the children will live, how parenting time will work, who makes major decisions, and how child support fits into everything. We help you protect your relationship with your children.
• People who are facing safety concerns. You may need to start a divorce while also dealing with safety issues, protective orders, emergency court matters, or a spouse who makes the process harder. We act quickly to protect you and your children.
• High-income individuals and business owners. A higher income, a business, a professional practice, bonuses, a busy schedule, or complex assets can change how divorce, custody, support, and property division play out. We know how to handle these added layers.

The Basic Michigan Divorce Process

Divorce is the legal dissolution of a valid marriage by a court. Michigan is known as a ‘no-fault’ divorce state. Instead, Michigan has one ground for divorce, which is as follows: there has been a breakdown of the marriage relationship to the extent that the objects of matrimony have been destroyed, and there remains no reasonable likelihood that the marriage can be preserved. Knowing what comes next can ease much of the worry around divorce. Here is a general overview of how a Michigan divorce moves forward.

1. Meet the Residency Requirement

To file in Michigan, you or your spouse must have lived in the state for at least 180 days and in the county where you file for at least 10 days. 

2. File the Complaint

The process begins when a spouse files a Complaint for Divorce with the appropriate court. This document opens the case and states what you are asking the court to decide.

3. Serve Your Spouse

Your spouse must receive a notice of the filed paperwork through proper legal service. This gives them notice of the case and a chance to respond.

4. Respond and Exchange Information

The other spouse files an answer. Both sides then share financial and other information through a step called discovery. This helps everyone understand the full picture of income, assets, and debts.

5. Address Temporary Orders

Some issues cannot wait until the case ends. The court can issue temporary orders for parenting time, child support, spousal support, or use of the home while the divorce is in progress.

6. Negotiate or Mediate

Some divorces may settle without a trial. Through negotiation and mediation, spouses work on coming to an agreement on property, support, and parenting. A fair settlement often saves time, money, and stress.

7. Wait Through the Mandatory Period

Michigan law mandates a waiting period before a divorce becomes final: 60 days for couples without minor children and six months when minor children are involved. The court can shorten the six-month period only in certain situations.

8. Finalize the Judgment

If you reach an agreement, the court reviews it and enters a Judgment of Divorce. If you cannot agree, a judge decides the open issues at trial. Either way, the judgment legally ends the marriage and sets the terms from now on.

Why Choose Robbins & Licavoli

Choosing the right attorney shapes your entire experience. Our firm stands apart due to our:

• Family law focus. We handle divorce and family law matters. That focus means we know Michigan law and local courts well.
• Personalized attention. We keep our communication clear and direct. You work with attorneys who know your case and return your calls.
• Proven track record. We have guided many clients through uncontested divorces, mediation, and litigation, including high-asset and business-owner cases.
• A strategy built for you. We gather the facts, review your full situation, and map out a plan that fits your goals and your budget.
• Calm in difficult moments. When safety, conflict, or emergency court issues arise, we move fast and stand firmly in your corner.

Our Case Process

1. Consultation. We listen to you, answer your questions, and explain your options.
2. Strategy. We outline a clear plan and the likely path forward.
3. Action. We handle filings, paperwork, and communication with the other side.
4. Resolution. We push for a fair outcome through settlement when possible or trial when needed.
5. Support after. We help with post-judgment changes if your circumstances shift later.

Take the First Step Toward Your Next Chapter

Divorce is one of life’s hardest transitions, but you do not have to face it alone. With clear guidance and steady support, you can protect what matters most and look ahead with confidence. Robbins & Licavoli is ready to help you understand your rights and plan your path forward. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get answers tailored to your situation.

FAQs about Divorce in Michigan