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RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS

In order to file for dissolution of marriage in the State of Michigan, one spouse must have been a resident of Michigan for 180 days and a resident of the county in which he or she files for ten days.

GROUNDS

The irretrievable breakdown of the marriage is the only grounds for divorce in the State of Michigan.

CHILD CUSTODY

One possible child custody arrangement in Michigan, which the courts recognize, is joint custody. Joint custody, although not usually granted as 50/50 arrangement, permits both parents to participate in the decision making process regarding their child's development and overall well being.

In a contested child custody matter, the court and parents must keep the wishes of the child and all parties involved in mind. The court and the parents must also keep in mind the moral, mental and physical fitness of the parties involved, as well as the child’s adjustment to his or her household, school and community when considering child custody.

CHILD SUPPORT

Michigan’s child support guidelines which in most cases, unless special circumstances are present. Both parties’ gross incomes, and certain child related expenses are taken into consideration when calculating the child support obligation. Child Support will continue until till the child’s eighteenth birthday, and may extend through the child’s secondary education.

MEDIATION

The judge may refer the contested issues to mediation with either a written stipulation of the parties, a written motion of a party, or on the judges own initiative. The parties may choose to submit any or all of their disputed issues to mediation so that they may proceed in court on an uncontested basis, prior to the initiation of divorce proceedings.

FILING FEES

Court filing fees are in addition to the cost of using CompleteCase.com. This cost may vary by county. Please check with your local courthouse to determine the exact amount.