Here is a step-by-step breakdown of filing for an uncontested divorce in Michigan:
1. File a Complaint for Divorce
Begin by filing a Complaint for Divorce with the Circuit Court in the county where either you or your spouse lives. (MI Comp L § 552.6)
2. Serve the Spouse
The other spouse (the defendant) must be formally served with the Complaint and Summons.
3. Answer to Complaint
The defendant has 21 days to respond (or 28 days if served by mail or out of state).
4. Uncontested Divorce
If your spouse does not respond, the case is treated as uncontested.
5. Agreement on Terms
Both parties must agree on all terms — property, spousal support, etc.
6. Prepare the Judgment of Divorce
Once both parties agree, you’ll draft a Judgment of Divorce outlining the terms.
7. Court Hearing and Approval
You’ll attend a short court hearing to present your agreement to the judge for approval.
8. Final Divorce Judgment
If the judge approves, your divorce judgment is signed and finalized.
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How can I get a cheap uncontested divorce in Michigan without a divorce attorney?
I understand you’re looking for a cost-effective way to handle your uncontested divorce in Michigan. Have you and your spouse already agreed on all the terms, such as property division and child custody?
No joint assets and no children involved.
Are you familiar with the paperwork and legal requirements for filing an uncontested divorce in Michigan without an attorney?
No.
Is there anything else the family lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they’ll be able to help with your uncontested divorce.
Yes.
Thank you for choosing AskALawyer! My name is Jessica, and I’m a licensed attorney who will be assisting you. I’m reviewing your question and will respond shortly.
I’m sorry you’re going through this. Do you and your spouse agree on all issues, such as property division and debts?
We don’t have any joint property or joint debt. Separate residences for over a year.
Okay, so your spouse agrees to all terms of the divorce?
Yes.
Here is a step-by-step breakdown of filing for an uncontested divorce in Michigan:
1. File a Complaint for Divorce
Begin by filing a Complaint for Divorce with the Circuit Court in the county where either you or your spouse lives. (MI Comp L § 552.6)
2. Serve the Spouse
The other spouse (the defendant) must be formally served with the Complaint and Summons.
3. Answer to Complaint
The defendant has 21 days to respond (or 28 days if served by mail or out of state).
4. Uncontested Divorce
If your spouse does not respond, the case is treated as uncontested.
5. Agreement on Terms
Both parties must agree on all terms — property, spousal support, etc.
6. Prepare the Judgment of Divorce
Once both parties agree, you’ll draft a Judgment of Divorce outlining the terms.
7. Court Hearing and Approval
You’ll attend a short court hearing to present your agreement to the judge for approval.
8. Final Divorce Judgment
If the judge approves, your divorce judgment is signed and finalized.
A friend mentioned you can put a notice of abandonment in the newspaper, and if the missing spouse doesn’t respond in time, your divorce will be granted. Is that another option?
That would be a contested divorce, not uncontested.
Yes — thank you. Please clarify why it’s considered contested.
Because an uncontested divorce requires both parties to cooperate and sign the paperwork. If your spouse cannot be located or refuses to participate, the court treats it as contested, and you must go through service by publication (the newspaper notice).
Thank you.
