White Lake Divorce Attorney

When you are facing a divorce, it can be difficult to think clearly. Yet despite the fact that this is a very emotional time, you need a White Lake divorce attorney who can think clearly on your behalf, carefully considering the long-term ramifications of decisions made today. When you want a highly experienced, yet empathetic divorce attorney, you need Melissa Pearce & Associates. We consistently go above and beyond for each of our clients, supporting and educating them in working cooperatively to achieve their goals. We take the time to understand your unique situation, working with you to determine the best path forward.

About White Lake

White Lake Charter Township is in Oakland County, making up a part of the Detroit metropolitan area. With a population of more than 30,000, White Lake was formed when the community welcomed hard-working farmers and settlers during the early nineteenth century. The Huron River rises in White Lake Township, while the nearby Highland Recreation Area offers a wide array of activities to accommodate equestrians, mountain bikers, hikers, and skiers.

The beauty of the area provides a stunning backdrop for residents of the area, who, despite their surroundings, may find themselves facing a divorce. A divorce does not have to be the end of the world when you have a strong White Lake divorce attorney from Melissa Pearce & Associates as your advocate.

About White Lake Divorce

Facing a divorce on your own can be a frightening, anxiety-inducing experience. Most of us are not up to speed on all the rules and laws that govern divorce. Further, we may be unable to separate our emotions from the practicalities of a divorce. In many instances, your financial future depends on the terms of your divorce.

Child custody is also decided during a divorce and is an issue that will have long-term repercussions. When you have an advocate from Melissa Pearce & Associates, you can be sure that your best interests—and those of your children—are consistently being looked after. We have the experience, skill, knowledge, and empathy necessary to help you through your divorce in the best way possible.

You (or your spouse) must have lived in Michigan for a period of 180 days in order to file for divorce in the state. You will file in the county in Michigan where you live—or the county in Michigan where your spouse lives. If one spouse has never lived in the state of Michigan, you can still divorce, but the Michigan courts may have limited jurisdiction regarding property division, custody, and child support.

There is a 60-day waiting period to obtain a divorce unless you have minor children, then the waiting period is six months. Michigan offers a no-fault divorce, meaning you are not required to claim a specific fault (like adultery) to get divorced. The behavior or misbehavior of a spouse during the marriage can impact the outcome of spousal support and the division of property.

White Lake Divorce Services Provided by Melissa Pearce & Associates

If you are facing a divorce, you need a solid White Lake divorce attorney from Melissa Pearce & Associates to help you through the process. Our attorneys will ensure your rights are properly protected from start to finish. We can assist you with any of the following divorce-related issues:

• Divorce, whether simple or complex
• Child custody and child support
• Asset evaluation and division
• Spousal support
• Legal separation
• Paternity issues
• Pre- and post-nuptial documents
• Protective Orders
• Modifications of spousal support or child support

What is the Step-by-Step Process in a Typical Divorce?

As with anything, there is a process for obtaining a White Lake divorce. The following steps are necessary:

• You must first determine whether you are eligible for a Michigan divorce (residence requirements of 180 days, meeting the waiting period of either 60 days if you have no children or 180 days if you have minor children).
• A complaint will be filed. A complaint is a legal document. The person filing the complaint is known as the Plaintiff, while the other spouse is the Defendant or Respondent. The divorce will be filed in the county of residence with the Family Division of the Circuit Court. A family court judge will be randomly assigned for each divorce.
• The non-filing spouse must be served with the complaint and the summons, then will have 21 days to file an answer that admits or denies each paragraph in the complaint. If no answer to the divorce is filed, an order of default could be entered, and the case becomes an uncontested divorce. Whether contested or uncontested, the divorce will not be granted without benefit of a final court hearing to ensure the statements made in the complaint are true.
• The court issues a temporary order that sets forth the financial arrangements as well as the arrangements concerning the children while the divorce is pending.
• Discovery begins, meaning the attorneys determine the issues that are contested, obtaining necessary facts and information through investigation. Discovery can include document production requests, depositions, interrogatories, third-party subpoenas, and more. Attorneys may consult and retain experts such as forensic accountants, appraisers, and psychological professionals during this discovery phase.
• Negotiations begin, with the attorneys for both spouses engaging in settlement talks, in an effort to resolve issues when possible. (If no settlements can be reached after negotiations and mediation, the court will get involved and make those decisions for the couple).
• Attorneys for each party will attend motion hearings, and a formal settlement conference will be set. Both parties must attend this settlement conference. If the lawyers and parties are unable to settle all issues at this formal settlement conference, the case will be scheduled for trial.
• Following the trial, the Final Judgment of Divorce is issued. This binding document grants the divorce and sets forth rules for property settlement, spousal support, child support, custody, parenting time, and more.

How White Lake Divorce Attorney Melissa Pearce Can Help

At Melissa Pearce & Associates, we believe it is crucial that you be informed every step of the way. We treat you—and every client—with respect, dignity, and empathy during what is often one of the most challenging times in your life. Contact Melissa Pearce & Associates today to set up a pre-engagement meeting where we will listen carefully to your concerns and goals.