Divorce in Michigan
State-specific overview · Family Law
Michigan allows no-fault divorce based on breakdown of the marriage with no mandatory waiting period.
How Michigan treats Divorce
Either spouse can file for divorce by stating the marriage has broken down irretrievably, without proving fault or waiting a set period. Michigan courts divide marital property equitably and may award alimony based on factors including the length of marriage and each party's earning capacity. Child support follows state guidelines, and custody decisions prioritize the best interests of the child. Michigan recognizes both traditional fault grounds and no-fault grounds for divorce.
The general definition of Divorce
The legal dissolution of a marriage, ending the spouses' rights and responsibilities to each other.
Divorce is the legal process by which a married couple ends their marriage. It involves a court officially terminating the marriage and typically requires decisions about property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support. The process can be contested, where the spouses disagree on terms, or uncontested, where they agree on the major issues. Once a divorce is finalized, both parties are free to remarry and are no longer legally responsible for each other.
Read the full Divorce entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Michigan.