South Lyon Divorce Attorney
As a western suburb of Metro Detroit and a relatively small city, South Lyon has its fair share of divorces just like any other city in the country. Divorce is never easy and becomes more stressful when children are involved. According to The Demographic Statistical Atlas of the United States, divorce rates are highest among men and women ages 45 to 64. While people in this age group usually have children, they may also have a business, property, or substantial assets or debts that may be involved in a divorce. Those who divorce in a second marriage may find things are even more complicated. If you are considering a divorce, a South Lyon divorce attorney with Melissa Pearce & Associates is available to provide legal guidance at 248-397-9606.
How Much Could a Divorce Cost in South Lyon, MI?
In Michigan the filing fee for petitioning for a divorce is $175 when there are no minor children in the marriage according to the Oakland County website. When divorcing spouses have minor children, the filing fee increases to $255. Filing fees are paid to the circuit court in Oakland County for those who live in South Lyon. Many attorneys charge an hourly rate which may range from $200 to $350 per hour, and some charge a retainer fee that is collected when the client chooses the attorney for legal representation.
The cost of divorce varies greatly depending on whether it is a contested or uncontested divorce and other factors. Contentious divorces generally take longer when spouses cannot come to an agreement on all of the terms of the divorce, which will impact costs. An experienced divorce attorney may be able to provide further guidance on the costs of a divorce.
South Lyon Divorce Services
The process of divorce is unique in each situation. Some spouses are amicable and can agree on child custody, support, visitation, spousal support, and other matters. Others disagree on virtually every aspect of the divorce. An experienced South Lyon divorce attorney with our firm can provide the legal support necessary to ensure your rights are protected regardless of whether the divorce is contested or uncontested.
Many people who are going through the divorce process are uncertain about how to file the necessary documents, how long it will take to finalize a divorce, and how their children may be impacted. Another concern is how property, a business, or assets/debts may be divided. Michigan is an equitable distribution state. This means that if the divorce is not contested property, assets, and liabilities will be distributed by the court in a way that is fair and “just.”
Contested Divorce vs Uncontested Divorce
Most people understand the difference between a contested and uncontested divorce. In an uncontested divorce, spouses agree on the terms of the divorce. This is typically a quick process in which spouses can have their divorce finalized in approximately 60 days, or two months. In a contested divorce, the timeline is often much longer – anywhere from six months to a year or longer. Either way, having a lawyer to provide legal guidance is highly recommended and may result in the best outcome. Factors often involved in a contested divorce include:
- Division of property
- Child custody
- Parenting and visitation time
- Spousal support
- Child support
- Division of assets/liabilities
- Retirement accounts/insurance policies
How Do I Know Which Type of Divorce Is Right for Me?
There are times when one spouse does not want a divorce or both parties cannot agree on the terms of the divorce. Michigan is a no-fault state which means neither spouse has to commit adultery or abandon the other in order for a divorce to be granted. A couple can divorce purely because their marriage has broken down and the relationship is beyond repair. When there are no issues and you agree to the terms of the divorce, an uncontested divorce is generally chosen. However, there are some very important reasons for contesting a divorce. Sometimes one spouse does not feel the terms are fair – for instance, the finances may not be divided in the terms in a way that seems reasonable. Consider speaking with a South Lyon divorce attorney when:
- A spouse is physically or psychologically abusive
- One spouse is concealing assets from the court – this can impact the determination of child support and spousal maintenance
- The terms are not in the best interests of the children – a contested divorce is necessary when parents cannot agree on custody, child support, or visitation
- Spousal maintenance is essential – many spouses stay home to take care of the children while the other works. There are several reasons a judge may award spousal maintenance
- Both partners do not agree on what is fair or equitable in terms of the division of marital property and assets
How a Skilled Divorce Attorney Can Help
A divorce is incredibly difficult to go through, whether uncontested or contested. It is important that an attorney works with their client to establish the goals the client wants to reach regarding their children and their futures. A knowledgeable South Lyon divorce attorney will work to minimize frustration for the client, gather the necessary documents, and handle the details of the client’s divorce case so they can focus on their lives post-divorce. A competent divorce lawyer is aware of all the aspects of divorce, including time deadlines and what needs to be taken care of right away. This helps prevent clients making costly mistakes that require more time to sort out.
Consider Visiting with an Experienced South Lyon Divorce Attorney Now
Divorce is a major life change, whether a couple has been married for five years or four decades. When children, a family business, or substantial assets or liabilities are involved, divorce can become extremely stressful and messy. Spouses often become more angry and frustrated each day the process drags on. Whether your divorce will be contested or uncontested, consider scheduling a pre-engagement meeting with Melissa Pearce & Associates, PLC. Contact us at 248-397-9606 for the legal guidance necessary to achieve the desired outcome in your case.
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