If you’re preparing to file for divorce and either know or anticipate that you and your spouse won’t have any significant disagreements about key matters, you may be expecting a quick and straightforward divorce process. But exactly how long does an uncontested divorce take in Michigan?
What Is an Uncontested Divorce in Michigan?
An uncontested divorce is one in which the spouses agree on important matters, such as property division, child custody, and spousal and child support. When spouses don’t have major disagreements about these issues, a divorce can proceed more quickly, not just because there’s less negotiation involved, but also because both parties are motivated to complete the process and begin moving forward with their lives.
Typical Timeline for an Uncontested Divorce in Michigan
Michigan law requires at least a 60-day waiting period as part of the timeline for spouses without minor children to divorce, and at least 180 days for spouses with minor children. Even when both spouses agree on every issue, the court still needs to review their paperwork, schedule any required hearings, and enter the final judgment of divorce. Spouses may encounter delays if their documents are incomplete or missing signatures, or if the court’s calendar is full.
Still, an uncontested case often presents the fastest path available to finalize your divorce in Michigan. In an uncontested divorce, the waiting period is in many ways just that: a period of two to six months during which time you can proceed with preparations for your life after the divorce.
Step-by-Step Timeline Breakdown
The uncontested divorce in Michigan timeline involves the following basic steps:
- File the Complaint for Divorce – One spouse files the required paperwork with the circuit court in the proper county.
- Serve the Other Spouse – The non-filing spouse receives legal notice of the divorce case.
- Wait the Required Period – Michigan requires at least 60 days, or at least 180 days if the spouses have minor children.
- Submit the Final Documents – The spouses submit their proposed judgment of divorce and related forms to the court.
- Attend the Final Hearing – A judge will review the agreement and, if they approve, sign it.
Uncontested vs Contested Divorce Timeline
Because the spouses have already resolved the main issues without the court’s input, the Michigan divorce process timeline in uncontested cases is typically much faster than in contested divorces.
A contested divorce can take much longer when spouses negotiate custody, support, property division, or debt-related terms, as these disputes are more likely to require discovery, mediation, and potentially greater court involvement.
While an uncontested case can end very soon after Michigan’s 60-day waiting period, a contested divorce may extend past the 180-day mark.
Speak With a Michigan Divorce Lawyer Today
If you have questions about the divorce process, a divorce attorney from Alward Fisher can answer them and help you understand your legal rights and options under Michigan law. We have over 100 years of combined experience handling uncontested and contested divorce cases and are prepared to advocate for your rights throughout the process. Reach out today to get started with a fully confidential consultation.
