Divorce
Deciding to divorce is difficult. However, once you make your decision, it is important to find a skilled Macomb divorce lawyer who can help you through the process successfully. For over 20 years, Lorrie J. Zahodnic, P.C. has provided divorce and other related legal services to Michigan clients including:
| • Divorce |
• Post-judgment motions |
| • Legal separation |
• Visitation |
| • Child custody |
• Paternity |
| • Child and spousal suppor |
• Property settlements |
| • Prenuptial and postnuptial agreement |
|
Divorce in Michigan
Michigan is a no-fault divorce state, and you are only required to prove:
- A breakdown in your marital relationship
- The objects of matrimony have been destroyed
- There is no reasonable expectation of saving your marriage
However, fault can be a factor in determining:
- Child custody, support, and visitation
- Property settlements
- Spousal support
Issues decided in a Michigan divorce
There are many issues that must be resolved in a divorce, including:
- Property distribution: Michigan is an equitable distribution state, and marital property is distributed based on what is fair as opposed to an equal distribution. In equitable distribution, the court considers many factors, including:
| • Each spouses’ earning capacity |
• The duration of the marriage |
| • The separate property of the spouses |
• The age and health of each spouse |
| • The contributions of each spouse in acquiring marital property |
• Any history of parental/spousal abuse and/or neglect |
- Spousal support: In Michigan, either spouse may be awarded spousal support both during the divorce process and after the divorce is final. However, spousal support typically terminates when/if the supported spouse remarries.
- Child custody and support: The Michigan family court encourages divorcing couples to pursue joint custody. It is the court’s responsibility to ensure that your minor children’s best interests are served in custody matters. When custody is disputed, the judge decides on the custody arrangement and bases his or her decision on your child’s best interest, considering many factors. It is possible to modify custody orders if a sufficient change of circumstances can be shown to the court to justify a change. Experienced Clinton Township divorce lawyers can help you evaluate whether changes in your circumstances are sufficient to warrant a change or modification.
Macomb divorce lawyers can help
Contact Lorrie J. Zahodnic, P.C. online or call 586-412-2000 today and schedule a consultation.