There are times when a marriage simply doesn’t work out and both parties agree on ending the relationship by filing for divorce. There are also instances when one party has decided that they no longer wish to be married, yet their spouse refuses to agree to a divorce. While both scenarios present their own set of challenges, the second can be much more difficult to get through, although it is not impossible.
You see, the state of Michigan is considered a no-fault divorce state. What this means is that “a complaint for divorce may be filed in the circuit court upon the allegation that there has been a breakdown of the marriage relationship to the extent that the objects of matrimony have been destroyed and there remains no reasonable likelihood that the marriage can be preserved” [Source: Michigan State Statute §552.6]. Basically, if you feel your marriage is broken and there is no way to repair the damage done, you can file for divorce regardless of what your spouse wants. So, although your spouse may not want a divorce, they can’t hold you back from filing the necessary paperwork and getting it finalized.
Now, there are a few things you need to be cognizant of aside from the fact that you are permitted to proceed on with your divorce case. For starters, your spouse can contest many of the matters that are generally brought up in a divorce case such as alimony, also known as spousal support, child custody or child support, and even the division of assets. The fact is, there are certain things the two of you are going to need to come to an agreement on and if your spouse isn’t willing to go through with the divorce, they likely won’t be eager to settle on the other matters mentioned above.
What this means for you is that your divorce case could be delayed in being finalized. So, a case that would have normally settled in a few months could drag on for a year or so until the courts are forced to step in and settle the disputes themselves. Now, this may or may not be in your favor as you may not wish to have the courts make decisions regarding how your assets should be split or determine how much time you are permitted to have to spend with their children.
Therefore, if you live in Lansing, East Lansing, or the surrounding area and are currently dealing with an upset spouse who rejects your request to end your marriage, you will want to hire an experienced Michigan divorce attorney who will work with you through your case and help you to reach a favorable outcome.
What are some other benefits of hiring a divorce lawyer?
A Lansing, Michigan divorce attorney such as Stuart R. Shafer will dedicate the time and attention your case requires so that every issue is handled appropriately and in a timely manner so that you are able to get one step closer to getting your divorce finalized. Aside from addressing the disputes that might arise, having a divorce lawyer working by your side, explaining the process will only make it easier for you to get through it. Therefore, if you are ready to retain an attorney with a great deal of experience and skill who will have your best interest in mind, contact the Law Offices of Stuart R. Shafer, P.C. now at 517-487-6603 to schedule an initial consultation. Contact us today to learn more.
The Law Offices of Stuart R. Shafer, P.C. can also be reached at:
1223 Turner Street, #333
Lansing, MI 48906
517-487-6603
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