Clinton Township Divorce Lawyers

There may be no other experience you will ever have to face that is more difficult than a divorce. At the law firm of Iafrate & Salassa, P.C., our Clinton Township divorce attorneys provide thorough, results-oriented representation to clients throughout the greater Metro Detroit area in all aspects of divorce.

We understand the issues you are facing, and we know what it takes to ensure that your interests are protected over the short and long term. Our complete understanding of Michigan law and the rights of divorcing spouses allows us to take a much more proactive approach in seeking a settlement that fully provides for your needs and the needs of your children.

Who We Help

Divorce arrives in many forms. We work with clients across a wide range of situations, including:

• People who are thinking about divorce. You may be weighing whether to move forward, but feel unsure about what happens to the house, the money, the kids, support payments, or the court process itself. We help you understand your options before you commit to anything.
• People who are ready to file. You may have made your decision, but you do not know what paperwork the court requires, how your spouse gets served, or what happens once the case begins. We handle the details and walk you through each stage.
• Parents who are working out arrangements for their children. You may need to decide where the kids will live, how parenting time will work, who makes major decisions, and how child support fits into the picture. We help you build a plan that puts your children first.
• People who are facing safety concerns or a difficult spouse. You may need to start a divorce while also dealing with safety issues, protective orders, emergency court matters, or a spouse who is making the process harder. We act quickly to protect you and your family.
• People with higher incomes or complex assets. You may earn a high income or own a business, hold a professional practice, receive bonuses, or manage a busy schedule and complex assets. You may not know how these factors affect property division, custody, or support. We help you protect what you have built.

The Michigan Divorce Process

Every case is different, but most divorces follow a similar path. Knowing the steps can ease much of the anxiety. Here’s what the process typically involves.

1. Meeting the Residency Requirement

Before you can file, Michigan law requires that you or your spouse has lived in the state for at least 180 days and in the county where you file for at least 10 days. Meeting this requirement is the first checkpoint.

2. Filing the Complaint

Once a spouse files a Complaint for Divorce with the circuit court, your divorce begins. Michigan is a no-fault state, so you do not need to prove that there was any wrongdoing from the other spouse. You simply state that the marriage has broken down with no reasonable chance of repair.

3. Serving Your Spouse

After filing, you must formally notify your spouse by serving them with the divorce papers. Your spouse then has a set period to respond.

4. Observing the Waiting Period

Michigan requires a mandatory waiting period before a divorce can be finalized. Cases without minor children carry a 60-day wait. Cases with minor children carry a minimum 6-month wait, though courts can shorten it under certain circumstances. This time often allows space for negotiation.

5. Dividing Property

Michigan observes the principle of equitable distribution, meaning the court divides marital property fairly. The court will review factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and contributions, and future needs. Our Clinton Township divorce attorneys help you identify, value, and protect your share of the marital estate.

6. Deciding Custody and Parenting Time

The court focuses on the children’s best interests. Judges look at factors including each parent’s relationship with the child, financial stability, and their ability to meet the child’s needs. We help you pursue an arrangement that supports your children and preserves your role as a parent.

7. Setting Support

Child support follows Michigan’s guidelines, which consider both parents’ incomes, parenting time, and the number of children. Spousal support, also called alimony, may apply depending on factors like income, the length of the marriage, and each spouse’s needs.

8. Finalizing the Divorce

Once you resolve every issue, the court enters a Judgment of Divorce. This final order spells out the terms of property division, custody, parenting time, and support. At that point, your divorce is legally complete, and you can begin your next chapter.

Why Choose Us

Choosing the right Clinton Township attorneys makes a real difference in how your case unfolds. Here is what sets our firm apart.

Personalized Attention. You are never just a file number to us. We take the time to understand your goals, your worries, and your family before we map out a strategy built around you.

A Clear, Steady Process. Confusion adds stress to an already hard situation. We explain each step in plain language, keep you informed, and tell you what to expect next so you always feel grounded.

Knowledge of Michigan Courts. Our focus on Michigan family law means we understand the local procedures and the people who shape your case. That familiarity helps us anticipate challenges and respond quickly.

Strong Advocacy. When the moment calls for firm representation, we stand up for you. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or the courtroom, we work to protect your rights and your future.

Compassion at Every Stage. We recognize the emotional toll divorce takes. Our team treats you with respect, patience, and care from the first conversation to the final judgment.

Take the First Step Toward Your Future

You deserve clarity, support, and a legal team that genuinely cares about your case’s outcome. Our team at Iafrate & Salassa, P.C. is ready to listen to you, discuss your options, answer your questions, and help you protect your future. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you move forward with rebuilding your life.

FAQs About Divorce in Michigan