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Ann Arbor Divorce Attorney Representing Men In Divorce In Ann Arbor, Michigan

Cordell & Cordell has Ann Arbor divorce lawyers ready to help you through one of the most trying periods in your life.

Featuring a comprehensive understanding of Michigan divorce law, our Ann Arbor family lawyers focus entirely on Ann Arbor divorce issues, including Michigan child custody laws, Michigan alimony laws and child support in Michigan.

To schedule an appointment, call 313.465.1999 or 1-866-DADS-LAW. One of our representatives will be glad to speak with you. Cordell & Cordell Ann Arbor Divorce Lawyers. Located at 2723 South State Street, Suite 150, Ann Arbor, MI 48104. Phone: 313.465.1999.

Frequently Asked Ann Arbor Divorce Questions

How long do I have to live in Ann Arbor before I can file for divorce?

One of the spouses, or both, must reside in Washtenaw County for at least 10 days immediately preceding the filing for divorce. This means, a spouse can file in Washtenaw County if his wife resides there, and he can file in Washtenaw County if he resides there but his wife has moved to a different county.

Similarly, one of the spouses, or both, must reside in the State of Michigan for at least 180 days immediately preceding the filing. Temporary absences with the intent to return are allowed.

Is there a mandatory waiting period in Ann Arbor before a divorce can be granted? How long will a divorce take?

Yes. Absent exceptional circumstances, there is a mandatory waiting period of 60 days for a divorce without minor children involved and a mandatory waiting period of six months for a divorce with a minor child or children involved. Some judges will waive the waiting period if all issues are settled.

The typical divorce without children takes three months to one year of the date of filing, and the typical divorce with a child or children takes six months to one year.

The State of Michigan Court Administrative Office encourages judges to complete divorces within one year of the date of filing. However, the length can be shorter or longer depending on the facts of the case.

How can I serve my spouse in Ann Arbor? If attempts to serve do not work, can I serve by publication?

If the served spouse signs an acknowledgment of service, service can be effected in any manner, even first class mail and e-mail depending on the judge.

Otherwise, the preferred methods of service are personal, in-hand delivery or certified mail, return receipt requested, and receipt restricted to the spouse to the spouse’s residence.

If service cannot be effected and that is made known to the judge, as well as the attempts to effect service, the judge will allow service by publication in the county legal a child or children are involved, the spouse also needs a Verified Statement and Application for IV-D Services and a Verified Statement for the UCCJEA, which may be combined with the Complaint for a Verified Complaint.

At some point, the spouse will also need to provide a Record of Divorce and certain Pretrial Statement forms, which are specific to the Washtenaw County Circuit Court. Depending on the facts, the spouse may also obtain a Status Quo Order and/or an Asset Restraining Order.

Where do I file for divorce in Ann Arbor?

All divorces are processed through the Washtenaw County Circuit Court, which is located at 101 East Huron Street in downtown Ann Arbor. This court is also known commonly as the Washtenaw Trial Court.

How much are divorce filing fees?

The filing fee for a divorce without children is $150, and the filing fee for a divorce with a child or children is $230. The additional $80 is a judgment entry fee for child support and child custody, and it may be charged at the beginning or at the end of the case.

Are there any Ann Arbor-Specific laws that are different from how other family law cases around the state are handled?

Yes. Washtenaw County is mediation-oriented, and the spouses will receive letters and notices regarding the mediation process and the expectation that they will engage in mediation in an effort to resolve all issues in their case.

Washtenaw County also has unique Pretrial Statement forms available online at the Washtenaw County Circuit Court's website.

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Cordell & Cordell Ann Arbor Office

2723 South State Street, Suite 150, Ann Arbor, MI 48104  313.465.1999

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