Family Mediation Benefits in Michigan

Close-up of a mediator taking notes while two people discuss their situation during mediation.

Navigating family law can feel overwhelming, but mediation offers hope for a more harmonious resolution. This alternative dispute resolution method is gaining recognition for transforming how families handle legal changes, promoting cooperative solutions that prioritize everyone’s well-being. Unlike traditional litigation, where courts decide, mediation empowers families to collaboratively craft their own agreements, leading to more […]

Life Insurance, Beneficiaries, and Divorce in Michigan

Magnifying glass highlighting the words “Life Insurance” on a printed document.

Life Insurance and Divorce in Michigan: What You Need to Know When going through a divorce, many financial matters must be addressed, including life insurance. In Michigan, life insurance policies and beneficiary designations can have significant legal implications before, during, and after your divorce. Failing to address these policies properly could jeopardize your financial security […]

Divorce Mediation in Michigan: How to Prepare for Fair Results

Couple seated on a couch speaking with a mediator during a family law mediation session.

Divorce mediation is a highly structured process. The goal of divorce mediation is to facilitate a mutually-agreeable outcome for divorce cases with outstanding disputes. If spouses have not yet agreed on how they should address their property or other important aspects of their divorce, they may feel like litigation is inevitable. However, litigation can be […]

Making the Decision to Divorce

Wedding rings resting on torn paper with the word “Divorce” visible.

Thinking About Divorce? Here’s How to Prepare Before Making the Decision Deciding whether to stay in a marriage or move on from a destructive relationship is one of the most difficult choices anyone can face. Divorce is emotional, stressful, and often overwhelming—but it’s also a deeply personal decision that should be made with care, preparation, […]

False Child Abuse Allegations in Michigan Custody Cases

Close-up of an adult holding a young child’s hand while walking outdoors.

Divorce cases can get ugly quickly, especially when children are involved. Whether parents are acting purely from fear of losing their children or from animosity toward each other, it is not unusual for divorcing spouses to play dirty when it comes to custody matters. One treacherous game a parent may play is accusing the other […]

Dividing Retirement Accounts in Michigan Divorce: QDROs

Document labeled “Retirement Plan” on a desk with glasses, pen, and calculator.

As you and your spouse divide your property during your divorce, you will want to pay special attention to their retirement accounts. Your spouse may have been your household’s breadwinner, and these accounts are likely held in their name alone. Yet, they may have established their accounts – or their accounts grew in value – […]

Should You Wait to Divorce Until Your Kids Are Grown?

Three older children smiling together outdoors, standing close with one resting an arm on another’s shoulder.

Is Staying Together for the Kids Always Better? Parents generally want what’s best for their children. Sometimes that includes staying married, even when the relationship no longer feels right. Many parents believe that waiting until their children reach age 18 will create a more stable home life and reduce the stress of making custody arrangements. […]

5 Benefits of Divorce Mediation in Michigan

Close-up of two people seated side by side during mediation, with a mediator’s notepad in the foreground.

Not every divorce has to involve a bitter battle between former spouses. Some couples want to divorce amicably and avoid difficult divorce drama. If you and your spouse are ending your marriage and you want to keep your divorce civil, you may want to consider divorce mediation. In divorce mediation, couples use a mediator and work […]

How to Modify a Child Custody Order in Michigan

Judge’s gavel on a desk with a person signing a legal document in the background.

If you want to change a child custody order in Michigan, you’ll need to file a Motion Regarding Custody. The court will review the request and decide whether the change is justified. For instance, if you want more parenting time because your child’s school schedule has changed, the court may approve that request. However, if […]

How to Succeed in Child Custody Mediation: Focus on the Present

Close-up of a mediator taking notes while two people discuss their situation during mediation.

Family law cases can be challenging, especially when emotions run high. Many parents find it hard to agree on key issues, which is why they turn to mediation. Mediation gives both parties a chance to talk through disagreements and find common ground before a judge has to decide for them. It can help move discussions […]