How to File for Divorce in Michigan: Step by Step

Filing for divorce can feel overwhelming, but it follows a clear path. Breaking it into steps makes it manageable. Here is how a Michigan divorce generally moves from the first filing to the final judgment in 2026, plus answers to the questions people ask along the way.

Do I need grounds for divorce in Michigan?

No. Michigan is a pure no-fault state. You do not have to prove adultery, cruelty, or any wrongdoing. The only thing you state is that there has been a breakdown of the marriage relationship to the extent that the objects of matrimony have been destroyed and there is no reasonable likelihood the marriage can be preserved. Your spouse cannot stop the divorce simply by disagreeing.

Step 1: Confirm you meet the residency requirement

Before you can file, you or your spouse must have lived in Michigan for at least 180 days, and in the county where you file for at least 10 days. If you recently moved to the state, you may need to wait before filing.

Step 2: File the complaint for divorce

The case begins when one spouse (the plaintiff) files a complaint for divorce with the circuit court, along with the required initial paperwork. When minor children are involved, additional forms and information about the children are filed as well.

Step 3: Serve your spouse

Your spouse (the defendant) must be formally served with the divorce papers and given the chance to respond, generally within 21 or 28 days depending on how service is made. If your spouse is cooperative, they can accept service, which keeps things simple and friendly.

What if my spouse will not respond?

The divorce can still move forward. If your spouse is properly served and does not answer within the deadline, your attorney can request a default, and the case proceeds without their participation. A spouse cannot hold a divorce hostage by ignoring it.

Step 4: The waiting period

Michigan requires a mandatory waiting period before a divorce can be finalized: 60 days when there are no minor children, and at least 6 months when minor children are involved. The waiting period is the earliest a divorce can be finished, not a deadline by which it must end.

Step 5: Temporary orders, if needed

While the case is pending, either spouse can ask the court for temporary orders covering who stays in the home, temporary parenting time, and temporary support. These keep daily life stable until the divorce is final.

Step 6: Exchange information and negotiate

Both sides exchange financial information so property and support can be worked out fairly. Many couples resolve their issues through negotiation or mediation. A thorough settlement covers property division, support, and any custody and parenting-time terms.

Step 7: Settlement or trial

If you reach an agreement, your attorney prepares a settlement and a proposed judgment. If you cannot agree on one or more issues, those issues go to trial and the judge decides them. The large majority of Michigan divorces settle rather than go to trial.

Step 8: The judgment of divorce

The case ends with a judgment of divorce signed by the judge. It spells out property division, any support, and custody and parenting time. Once entered, it is legally binding, which is why getting the details right matters.

Can the process be simpler or faster?

Yes. When you and your spouse agree on everything, an uncontested divorce moves through these steps with far less friction and cost, often finishing soon after the waiting period. Either way, an attorney makes sure each form is correct and filed on time so your divorce is not delayed. See the full divorce overview.

What documents will I need?

Gathering paperwork early makes everything faster and cheaper. Helpful items include recent pay stubs and tax returns, bank and retirement account statements, mortgage and loan information, vehicle titles, a list of major assets and debts, and any existing court orders. When children are involved, information about their schools, childcare, and health insurance is useful too. The more organized you are, the less time your attorney spends gathering basics.

How long will the whole process take?

The waiting period sets the floor — 60 days without minor children, at least 6 months with them — but the real timeline depends on how quickly you and your spouse resolve the issues. A straightforward, agreed case can finish soon after the waiting period, while a contested case with disputes over property or custody can take many months longer. Staying responsive and reasonable is the best way to keep your case moving.

This article is general information about Michigan family law and is not legal advice. Every case is different. Connect with a licensed Michigan attorney about your specific situation.