At STURTZ & STURTZ, P.C., we represent clients in divorce, custody, parenting time, child support, spousal support, and other domestic relations matters throughout Mid-Michigan. Family law disputes often involve significant financial and emotional considerations, and our firm provides thoughtful, strategic, and practical representation tailored to each client’s circumstances. Whether through negotiated resolution or contested litigation, we work closely with clients to protect their interests and help them navigate difficult transitions with clarity and confidence.
Divorce and Separate Maintenance
Michigan law recognizes several legal processes relating to the end or restructuring of a marriage, including annulment, separate maintenance, and divorce.
Annulment
An annulment is a request for the court to declare that a marriage was invalid and should be treated as though it never legally existed. Annulments are relatively uncommon and generally involve limited and specific legal circumstances.
Separate Maintenance
Separate maintenance is an action in which the parties remain legally married while the court addresses issues such as property division, support, custody, and parenting time. Separate maintenance actions are sometimes pursued for religious, financial, or insurance-related reasons.
Divorce
Most family law matters in Michigan involve divorce proceedings. Michigan is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that neither party is required to prove wrongdoing or misconduct to obtain a divorce. Instead, one party must testify that there has been a breakdown of the marital relationship such that the marriage cannot reasonably be preserved.
Child Custody and Parenting Time
Child custody and parenting time disputes are often among the most difficult and important issues facing families during a separation or divorce. Michigan courts evaluate custody matters based upon the best interests of the child and may consider numerous factors relating to the child’s welfare, stability, and established custodial environment.
Our firm assists clients with a wide range of custody-related matters, including:
- Initial custody determinations
- Parenting time disputes
- Post-judgment modifications
- School and educational disputes
- Relocation matters
- Friend of the Court proceedings
- Enforcement actions
- Emergency custody issues
We understand that every family situation is unique and work closely with clients to develop practical and child-focused solutions while remaining prepared to litigate contested matters when necessary.
Property Division and Financial Matters
Divorce proceedings frequently involve complex financial and property-related issues. Michigan courts generally seek an equitable division of marital assets and liabilities, which may include:
- Real estate and marital homes
- Retirement accounts and pensions
- Business interests
- Investments and financial accounts
- Personal property
- Debt allocation
- Spousal support
Our firm provides detailed and practical guidance regarding financial issues arising in divorce proceedings and works to protect our clients’ short-term and long-term interests throughout the process.
The Divorce Process
To file for divorce in Michigan, at least one party must have resided in the State of Michigan for a minimum of 180 days before filing. In most cases, the filing party must also reside in the county where the action is filed for at least 10 days immediately preceding the filing.
If minor children are involved, Michigan law generally requires a six-month waiting period before the divorce may be finalized. In cases without minor children, the minimum waiting period is generally 60 days.
Divorce proceedings often involve a number of temporary and long-term issues, including custody, parenting time, child support, spousal support, property division, exclusive use of the marital home, and other financial or personal matters.
Many divorce matters are resolved through negotiation and settlement discussions. However, when the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the matter may proceed to trial, where the court will hear testimony and evidence before issuing a final decision on disputed issues.
Friend of the Court Proceedings
In cases involving minor children, the Friend of the Court may become involved regarding custody, parenting time, and support-related matters. The Friend of the Court may conduct investigations, hold conferences or hearings, and issue recommendations to the court.
Our firm regularly represents clients in Friend of the Court matters and contested evidentiary proceedings involving custody, parenting time, and support disputes throughout Mid-Michigan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Michigan?
In cases involving minor children, Michigan law generally requires a minimum six-month waiting period before a divorce can be finalized. Cases without minor children generally require a minimum 60-day waiting period. However, the overall timeline varies depending on the complexity of the issues and whether the matter is contested.
Is Michigan a no-fault divorce state?
Yes. Michigan is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that neither spouse is required to prove wrongdoing in order to obtain a divorce.
What factors do Michigan courts consider in custody matters?
Michigan courts evaluate custody matters based upon the best interests of the child and may consider a number of statutory factors relating to the child’s welfare, stability, relationships, and established custodial environment.
What is the Friend of the Court?
The Friend of the Court is an office that assists Michigan courts with matters involving custody, parenting time, and support. Depending on the circumstances, the Friend of the Court may investigate issues, make recommendations, or conduct hearings regarding disputed matters.
Can custody or parenting time orders be modified?
Yes. Under certain circumstances, custody and parenting time orders may be modified following entry of the Judgment of Divorce or prior court orders.