Experienced Divorce Attorneys Focused On Your Future

Divorce is not just the end of a marriage. It is also the beginning of a new chapter in your life. You need solutions that position you for the bright future you desire for yourself and your family.

At Daudi & Kroll, P.C., we know what it takes to help you pursue meaningful results amid the legal, emotional and financial complexities of your Michigan divorce. Based out of offices in Okemos and Canton, our divorce attorneys offer dependable support, experienced guidance and client-focused service.

Navigating Your Michigan Divorce

In Michigan, all divorces are no fault. However, not having to prove fault doesn’t mean the process can’t be incredibly complex.

Divorces can touch on many impactful issues, including:

• How to divide assets in a fair way
• What child custody arrangement would serve your child’s best interests
• What child support or spousal support payments should be made moving forward

Our divorce attorneys are here to provide you with comprehensive support through all proceedings connected to these types of family law issues.

Divorce Timelines

Many factors can impact the overall length of a divorce in Michigan. For one, the state has a waiting period of 60 days for couples without children and six months for couples with children. Additional factors that can impact how long a divorce takes include:

• The complexity of the issues involved
• Whether it is contested or uncontested
• Whether any unexpected issues or problems arise

We understand your desire to quickly get your divorce behind you and get a new start. We can help you pursue solutions aimed at keeping the process moving along swiftly and avoiding unnecessary delays.

Separate Maintenance In Michigan

Separate maintenance is a formal legal process that allows spouses to live independent lives while remaining legally married. Since Michigan does not offer traditional “legal separation,” separate maintenance is the closest alternative.

The process can provide a solution for couples who want structure, clarity and enforceable terms without ending a marriage. Under MCL 552.7, either spouse may file a complaint for separate maintenance, and the court may issue orders that closely resemble those that accompany a divorce.

The spouses can divide responsibilities, establish financial arrangements and determine parenting schedules, but they remain legally married. This distinction matters for couples who have religious objections to divorce, want to preserve certain marital benefits or hope to leave open the possibility of reconciliation. Because the marriage remains intact, neither spouse may remarry unless they later pursue a full divorce.

A trial separation is another option for couples who are unsure whether they want to divorce or pursue separate maintenance. A trial separation is informal and does not involve the court. It allows spouses to live apart temporarily while they evaluate their goals, communication patterns and long‑term plans. However, it is not legally binding and may not provide enforceable protections for finances, parenting time or property.

When spouses choose separate maintenance, they can negotiate or litigate a detailed agreement that addresses the practical realities of living apart. A well‑structured agreement helps prevent misunderstandings during a difficult transition. Common terms include:

• Division of property and debt: Agreements can outline how marital assets and liabilities are allocated while the spouses remain married.
• Spousal support arrangements: The court may order support based on similar divorce factors, including income, need and marriage length.
• Child custody and parenting: Parents can create schedules, decision‑making authority and communication expectations to support their children’s stability.
• Child support obligations: Separate maintenance agreements can establish child support payment amounts consistent with Michigan’s Child Support Formula.
• Responsibility for household expenses: Spouses may decide how to handle mortgage payments, insurance, utilities or other ongoing costs.

These terms work together to create a clear framework for spouses who want legal protection without dissolving their marriage. A lawyer can guide you through the separate maintenance process and help you negotiate clear terms that protect your financial and parental interests.

Understanding Uncontested And Contested Divorce

An uncontested divorce is when both parties are in agreement on more or less all the key issues. This type of divorce can be less expensive and faster. However, it is still important to protect your rights. Our divorce lawyers can help with every step of your uncontested divorce.

When you and your spouse aren’t able to reach agreements on key divorce issues, the divorce is considered contested. Such divorces can get very complex very quickly. In these circumstances, you want experienced guidance to help you find the right path forward. Our team is here to give you the advocacy and support you need when challenging divorce disputes arise.

The Basics Of Annulment In Michigan

In certain situations, a marriage may be treated as if it never legally existed. This is done through annulment.

Unlike divorce, an annulment challenges whether a valid marriage was formed under Michigan statutory law. Courts review these cases closely and rely on specific statutory grounds before granting relief.

Annulments are only available in limited circumstances. Pursuant to MCL 551.2–551.4, the following conditions would be reviewed to determine whether the marriage was void or voidable:

• Lack of capacity or consent: If a person could not legally agree to the marriage due to age, mental condition or impairment, the marriage may be invalid. Courts require clear evidence showing consent was not properly given at the time.
• Fraud or misrepresentation: If one party relied on serious false statements when entering the marriage, annulment may be an option. The issue must relate directly to the foundation of the relationship, not minor disagreements.
• Bigamy or prohibited relationships: A marriage is considered void if one spouse was already married or the relationship violates prohibited degrees under Michigan law. 

Because these situations are narrowly defined by law, courts will not grant annulments because a marriage ended quickly or did not meet expectations. Each case must meet one of these standards in order to be annulled.

The primary difference between annulment and divorce lies in the legal status of the union. A divorce ends a valid marriage, while an annulment erases it. Key distinctions include the following:

• Division of assets: In a divorce, the court aims to divide assets in a fair way based on the marriage history. For an annulment, the goal is often to return both parties to their original financial positions held before the ceremony.
• Impact on children: Even if a marriage is annulled, children born during the union remain legitimate under Michigan law. The court will still establish a child custody arrangement and determine support payments that serve the child’s best interests.
• Proof requirements: Divorce is available under Michigan’s no-fault system, whereas annulment requires specific proof tied to how the marriage began.

Remember, choosing the right path depends on the details of your situation and how the law applies. We look at the details early to allow for a more focused path forward and help avoid unnecessary setbacks. Our team is here to provide the proactive legal support needed to resolve these family law issues. 

Connect With Us To Discuss Your Options

Learn more about our divorce services by sending us a message online. You may also call 517-306-4538 or 734-249-6310.