Divorce Lawyers Serving Lansing, Battle Creek, and All of Michigan
Divorce Is Hard Enough — Your Attorney Shouldn't Make It Harder
Divorce touches every part of your life at once: your home, your finances, your children, your daily routine. The decisions made during this process will follow you for years, which is why having the right legal team beside you matters as much as anything else. At Wood & Associates PLLC, we work with clients across Michigan who are navigating divorce at every level of complexity — from straightforward uncontested cases to high-conflict disputes involving property, custody, and support. We take the time to understand what you're facing before we tell you what to do, and we stay accessible throughout the process so you're never left wondering where things stand.
What Michigan Divorce Law Actually Requires
Michigan is a no-fault divorce state, which means neither spouse has to prove wrongdoing to file. Either party can initiate a divorce by stating that the marriage has broken down and there is no reasonable likelihood it can be preserved. That said, no-fault filing does not mean every issue resolves automatically. Property division, spousal support, child custody, parenting time, and child support all require either a negotiated agreement or a court determination — and the outcome of each can significantly affect your financial stability and your relationship with your children.
Michigan also imposes a mandatory waiting period before a divorce can be finalized: 60 days for couples without minor children, and 180 days for those who have them. During that window, temporary orders may govern where the children live, who stays in the home, and how bills get paid. We help clients understand what to expect at each stage and how to position themselves effectively from the very beginning.
Wood & Associates PLLC handles family law, estate planning and probate, Chapter 7 bankruptcy, administrative law matters like license restoration and CPS appeals, DUI/OWI defense, and Minor in Possession (MIP) defense — one team, wherever you're starting from.
What Your Divorce Case May Involve
No two divorces are identical, but most cases involve some combination of the following:
- Property division — Michigan divides marital property equitably, which does not always mean equally. Retirement accounts, real estate, business interests, and debt all require careful analysis.
- Child custody and parenting time — Legal custody determines decision-making authority; physical custody determines where your child lives. Both are negotiable and litigable.
- Child support — Michigan uses a statutory formula, but income verification, childcare costs, and special circumstances can all affect the final number.
- Spousal support — Also called alimony, spousal support is not automatic in Michigan. Courts consider the length of the marriage, each spouse's earning capacity, and several other factors.
- Contested vs. uncontested divorce — If both spouses agree on all terms, an uncontested divorce can move through the court efficiently. When disputes arise, we are prepared to advocate for you at every stage, including trial if necessary.
Why Clients Across Michigan Choose Wood & Associates
We have spent decades helping Michigan families move through divorce with their dignity and their futures intact. Our team brings genuine experience across Ingham, Calhoun, Eaton, Clinton, Kalamazoo, Barry, Hillsdale, Shiawassee, and Jackson counties — and we know the courts, the procedures, and the local expectations that shape how cases actually resolve.
A few things that set us apart:
- Bilingual representation in Spanish and English, with a Spanish-speaking attorney on staff
- Inclusive, welcoming service for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples
- Flexible payment options, including a no-credit-check Pay Later financing plan, so cost doesn't prevent you from getting the help you need
- A reputation for responsiveness — we communicate clearly and consistently, because you deserve to know where your case stands
- Two established Michigan offices in Lansing and Battle Creek, with walk-ins welcome during business hours
Answers to Common Questions About Divorce in Michigan
How long does a divorce take in Michigan?
At minimum, 60 days for couples without minor children and 180 days for those who have them — these are mandatory waiting periods set by Michigan law. Contested cases involving property disputes, custody disagreements, or spousal support claims typically take longer, sometimes a year or more depending on court scheduling and the complexity of the issues involved.At minimum, 60 days for couples without minor children and 180 days for those who have them — these are mandatory waiting periods set by Michigan law. Contested cases involving property disputes, custody disagreements, or spousal support claims typically take longer, sometimes a year or more depending on court scheduling and the complexity of the issues involved.Do I need a lawyer if my spouse and I agree on everything?
Even in an uncontested divorce, having an attorney review your agreement before it becomes a court order is strongly advisable. Terms that seem fair today — especially around retirement accounts, property transfers, and child support — can have long-term consequences that aren't always obvious without legal review.Even in an uncontested divorce, having an attorney review your agreement before it becomes a court order is strongly advisable. Terms that seem fair today — especially around retirement accounts, property transfers, and child support — can have long-term consequences that aren't always obvious without legal review.Can I get divorced in Michigan if I don't know where my spouse is?
Yes. Michigan courts allow for service by publication when a spouse cannot be located after a diligent search. The process takes additional time and requires specific steps, but it does not prevent you from moving forward.Yes. Michigan courts allow for service by publication when a spouse cannot be located after a diligent search. The process takes additional time and requires specific steps, but it does not prevent you from moving forward.How is property divided in a Michigan divorce?
Michigan follows the principle of equitable distribution, meaning the court divides marital property fairly — but not necessarily in half. The court considers factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse's contributions, and each party's economic circumstances. Separate property brought into the marriage is generally not subject to division.Michigan follows the principle of equitable distribution, meaning the court divides marital property fairly — but not necessarily in half. The court considers factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse's contributions, and each party's economic circumstances. Separate property brought into the marriage is generally not subject to division.What if my spouse earns significantly more than I do — will I receive spousal support?
Spousal support is not guaranteed, but Michigan courts do consider the disparity in earning capacity between spouses. Factors like the length of the marriage, each party's health, contributions to the household, and the standard of living established during the marriage all play a role. An attorney can help you evaluate whether spousal support is realistic in your specific situation.Spousal support is not guaranteed, but Michigan courts do consider the disparity in earning capacity between spouses. Factors like the length of the marriage, each party's health, contributions to the household, and the standard of living established during the marriage all play a role. An attorney can help you evaluate whether spousal support is realistic in your specific situation.
Ready to Talk to a Divorce Lawyer in Lansing or Battle Creek?
Reaching out is the first step, and it doesn't commit you to anything. Whether you're just starting to consider divorce or you've already been served with papers, we're here to help you understand your options and make informed decisions.
Call our Lansing office at 517-481-4023, our Battle Creek office at 269-841-5426, or reach us toll-free at 888-209-7348. You can also contact us by text, chat, or through our online form — whatever is easiest for you.