There is more than one type of divorce in Michigan, and which one you use may affect how much you spend on the process and how long it takes to complete. One type of divorce many couples opt for is uncontested divorce.
What is an uncontested divorce?
Couples often discuss the terms of various legal issues, such as property division and child custody, as part of the divorce process. If they cannot agree on the terms, the court makes decisions in their stead.
In an uncontested divorce, the couple agrees on the terms of their separation. This usually allows them to complete the divorce without going to trial.
Is an uncontested divorce for you?
There are several reasons you might want an uncontested divorce. Because you and your spouse generally do not have to appear in any trial, you do not rely too much on the court calendar. You do not compete with other cases, so it is usually possible to finish an uncontested divorce within months, unlike traditional divorce, which might take years to finalize. And the less time the process takes, the less money you will likely spend.
However, an uncontested divorce is not for everyone. Couples who can set aside their conflict and cooperate toward an amicable separation might benefit significantly from it. However, it may not be ideal if one partner is likely unsafe or disadvantaged during negotiations, which is usually the case in couples with a history of domestic abuse.
An uncontested divorce may be more flexible than a traditional divorce, but it can still be as complex. You will likely need an experienced divorce attorney’s help with paperwork and negotiating fair outcomes during your separation.