Michigan Divorce Guide

Complete guide to divorce laws, costs, timeline, and process in Michigan
Updated for 2026 with state-specific AI predictions

6-12 months

Average Duration

$12,600

Average Cost

180 days

Residency Req.

60 days (no children) / 6 months (with children)

Waiting Period

Verified95

Michigan Divorce Quick Facts

Property Division

Equitable Distribution

Grounds

No-fault only

Alimony

Duration, age, health, conduct, ability to work

Child Support

Income shares model

What Makes Michigan Divorce Unique

No-fault only since 1972

Different waiting periods based on children

Marital property equitably divided

Spousal support considers many factors

Joint custody available

Friend of the Court involved in custody

Michigan Divorce Process Timeline

Week 1-2
Filing
Meet residency requirement (180 days), file petition, serve spouse
Month 1-3
Response & Discovery
Spouse responds, both parties exchange financial information and documents
Month 3-8
Negotiation
Settlement discussions, mediation if required, division of assets and debts
Month 9-12
Finalization
Court approval, waiting period (60 days (no children) / 6 months (with children)), final decree entered

Find Michigan Divorce Professionals

Family Law Attorneys

150+

Mediators

45+

Divorce Coaches

60+

CDFAs

30+

Therapists

80+

Get Your Michigan Divorce Prediction

See your settlement amount, timeline, and custody outcome
Based on Michigan laws and historical cases