Contested Divorce Lawyers in Michigan – ChooseGoldman

A contested divorce happens when spouses cannot agree on important matters such as child custody, support, or dividing property. In Michigan, when disagreements arise, the court must step in to decide the final terms. This process can be complicated, time-consuming, and stressful. Having an attorney ensures that your rights are protected throughout the legal proceedings.

Challenges in a Contested Divorce

A contested divorce can bring legal and emotional difficulties. Both parties must present their case, which can lead to delays and increased costs.

Complex Legal Procedures: Filing paperwork, responding to motions, and preparing for hearings require legal knowledge.
High Emotional Tension: Disagreements over finances, custody, and property division often cause stress and anxiety.
Lengthy Court Process: Since both sides must present their arguments, contested divorces can take months or even years.
Financial Disputes: Dividing assets and debts fairly can be difficult, especially if one spouse controls the finances.
Uncertain Outcomes: The judge makes the final decision, which may not align with either spouse’s wishes.

Key Benefits of Legal Representation

Having an attorney can make a contested divorce easier to manage. A lawyer will handle legal paperwork, represent your interests in court, and work toward a fair resolution.

Clear Legal Guidance: Attorneys explain your rights and options so you can make informed decisions.
Effective Court Representation: Legal professionals present evidence and arguments on your behalf.
Skilled Negotiation: An attorney can work toward a settlement to avoid prolonged court battles.
Protecting Financial Interests: Lawyers help ensure assets and debts are divided fairly.
Reducing Emotional Stress: Having legal support allows you to focus on your well-being.

How Contested Divorce Works in Michigan

Each contested divorce follows a structured legal process. The steps ensure that both parties have an opportunity to present their case.

Filing for Divorce: One spouse files a petition to begin the legal process.
Serving Divorce Papers: The other spouse is officially notified and must respond.
Discovery Phase: Both sides gather financial documents, witness statements, and other evidence.
Negotiation Attempts: Attorneys may try to resolve disputes before going to trial.
Court Hearings: If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial, where a judge makes final decisions.
Final Divorce Decree: The court issues a legally binding order outlining custody, support, and property division.

How We Support Clients in Contested Divorce Cases

Our legal team provides the knowledge and experience needed to handle complex divorce cases. We ensure that your voice is heard and your interests are protected.

For Parents: We advocate for fair custody and support agreements that reflect the child’s needs.
For Financial Security: We help protect assets and negotiate fair spousal support.
For Fair Property Division: We work to ensure that assets and debts are split fairly.

How Goldman & Associates Law Firm Helps in Contested Divorces

Our attorneys guide clients through every stage of a contested divorce. We focus on securing favorable outcomes while minimizing stress and delays.

Filing and Managing Legal Documents: We ensure all paperwork is correctly completed and submitted.
Representing Clients in Court: We present strong arguments backed by legal knowledge and evidence.
Negotiating Settlements: We strive to resolve disputes without unnecessary litigation.
Protecting Parental Rights: We help clients establish fair custody and visitation agreements.

Why Choose Goldman & Associates Law Firm for Your Divorce Case?

With years of experience in Michigan family law, we provide reliable legal support for complex divorce cases.

Experienced Legal Professionals: Our attorneys understand Michigan divorce laws and court procedures.
Personalized Legal Strategies: We tailor our approach based on each client’s unique needs.
Efficient Case Handling: We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible.
Commitment to Fairness: We ensure that both spouses receive fair treatment under the law.

Call Us Today to Discuss Your Contested Divorce

A contested divorce can be difficult, but you do not have to go through it alone. Call us today for a consultation and let our team help you through the process.

Call our 24/7 toll-free number at (877) 737-8800 for consultation.

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Find out how we successfully worked with clients by watching our Testimonial videos.

Contested Divorce Lawyers in Michigan – FAQs | ChooseGoldman

A contested divorce in Michigan happens when spouses cannot agree on key terms such as child custody, asset division, or spousal support. Unlike uncontested divorces, these cases involve court hearings, negotiation, and often legal representation to resolve disputes. At Akiva Goldman & Associates, we advocate for your best interests—whether you’re seeking fair parenting time or equitable division of assets.

Below, we’ve answered the most frequently asked questions about contested divorce in Michigan to help you make informed decisions.

What is a contested divorce in Michigan?

A contested divorce occurs when spouses disagree on one or more key issues, such as:

Child custody or parenting time
Spousal support (alimony)
Property and debt division
Legal fees or insurance coverage

This type of divorce typically requires court involvement to resolve disputes and can take longer than an uncontested case.

Learn more about Michigan Divorce Law.

What are the steps involved in a contested divorce?

Here’s a simplified timeline:

File a Complaint for Divorce
Serve the other spouse
Exchange financial disclosures (Discovery)
Attend hearings or mediation
Go to trial (if no settlement is reached)

A judge makes final decisions if both parties cannot agree. Our team helps guide you through every step with clarity and preparation.

How long does a contested divorce take in Michigan?

Contested divorces take longer than uncontested ones due to court involvement. On average:

With no children: 6 to 12 months
With minor children: 9 to 18 months

Delays are common if disputes escalate or require expert evaluations (e.g., custody, assets, business valuation).

What makes a divorce “contested”?

A divorce becomes contested when any of these issues are not agreed upon:

Division of marital property or debts
Child custody, parenting time, or support
Alimony (spousal support)
Responsibility for legal costs

Even if only one issue is in dispute, the case is considered contested.

Do I need a lawyer for a contested divorce in Michigan?

Yes—contested divorces involve:

Legal arguments
Negotiations
Multiple court filings
Potential trials

Hiring a Michigan divorce lawyer helps protect your rights, reduce stress, and improve the likelihood of a fair outcome. Book your free consultation to learn how we can help.

How is property divided in a contested divorce?

Michigan follows equitable distribution, meaning property is divided fairly—not always equally. Courts consider:

Length of the marriage
Contributions by each spouse
Earning capacity
Fault or misconduct (in some cases)

Disputes over high-value assets or hidden property often arise in contested cases.

What if my spouse refuses to respond or cooperate?

If your spouse ignores divorce papers or refuses to participate, you may request a default judgment. This allows the court to proceed and decide based on your filings.

However, if they eventually respond, the process may transition to a contested divorce.

What happens at a contested divorce trial in Michigan?

During trial:

Both parties present evidence and testimony
Attorneys cross-examine witnesses
A judge makes final decisions on all unresolved issues

Trials are public, legally binding, and can be time-consuming. Our firm prepares every case as if it could go to trial—even if we settle beforehand.

How does a judge decide on child custody in a contested divorce?

Custody decisions are based on the child’s best interests, using Michigan’s 12-factor test. The court considers:

Emotional ties
Parental capacity
Stability of each home
History of domestic abuse
Willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent

Visit our Custody Rights for Mothers or Fathers’ Rights pages to learn more.

How much does a contested divorce cost in Michigan?

Costs can range from $5,000 to $20,000+, depending on:

Attorney’s hourly rate
Length and complexity of the case
Number of court hearings or motions
Use of expert witnesses

We offer transparent billing and tailored strategies to manage your legal budget.

See more about divorce costs in Michigan.

Can a contested divorce be resolved without a trial?

Yes. Many contested divorces are settled through:

Mediation
Settlement conferences
Negotiations between attorneys

Avoiding trial can save time, money, and emotional toll. Explore Divorce Mediation as a resolution method.

What is “discovery” in a contested divorce?

Discovery is the legal process of exchanging information between spouses. It can include:

Financial documents
Property appraisals
Interrogatories (written questions)
Depositions (recorded testimonies)

Discovery ensures both parties are transparent before the court makes decisions.

Can I change attorneys during a contested divorce?

Yes, you have the right to change lawyers at any time. Whether due to communication issues, case strategy, or trust, it’s essential that your attorney fully supports your goals.

We frequently assist clients transitioning from prior counsel.

How can I prepare for a contested divorce in Michigan?

Here are practical steps:

Gather all financial records
Keep a written log of parenting time
Avoid social media conflicts
Stay organized with court deadlines
Consult a trusted divorce attorney

Our legal team at Akiva Goldman & Associates will build a strategy tailored to your goals and protect your rights every step of the way.

🤝 Ready to Face a Contested Divorce With Confidence?

At Akiva Goldman & Associates, we understand that contested divorces require strong advocacy, experience, and compassion. Whether you’re fighting for fair custody, assets, or peace of mind—our Michigan divorce lawyers are here for you.

👉 Schedule your free consultation today to discuss your options and get legal clarity.