How does the Established Custodial Environment affect your Michigan Family Law matter? If an established custodial environment exists with one parent then custody can be changed only upon a showing of clear and convincing evidence that there has been significant change in circumstances and that the custody change is in the best interests of the [..]
Michigan Divorce: Mediation One of the forms of Alternative Dispute Resolution is Michigan Divorce Mediation. Michigan Divorce Mediation is the process by which two parties, who may or may not be represented by counsel, meet with a 3rd party neutral mediator to help them reach joint decisions. The process requires listening, open-mindedness and hard work. [..]
After a Michigan Divorce what benefits must be covered under COBRA? If you elect continuation coverage, the coverage you are given after a Michigan Divorce must be identical to the coverage currently available under the plan to similarly situated active employees and their families (generally, this is the same coverage that you had immediately before [..]
Property distribution is an important part of the Michigan Divorce process. There are two ways to divide marital property during a Michigan divorce. This first is to enter into an agreement with your spouse regarding who gets what. If you and your spouse can agree on a division that seems fair to both, you can [..]
Michigan Divorce Divorce can be a difficult time for anyone. During this time, it is important to know your options. For the purposes of this article, we will be operating under the assumption that there are no marital children and that this is a Michigan Divorce. So, you have just been served by your [..]
In Michigan, most Family Court Judges require mediation after a divorce, custody, or other family law case is filed. Mediation does not have to be Court Ordered as the parties can agree via a Consent Order to attend Mediation. Family Law Mediation and Process Family Law Mediation is a process in which an impartial third [..]
Alimony and Current Law: Before the enactment of the 2017 Tax Reform Act alimony payments were deductible from the gross income of the payor and taxable as income to the recipient of the alimony. Under current Federal Law and until December 31, 2018, these payments will continue to be deductible from the gross income of [..]
Unbeknownst to many parents seeking assistance with custody or support matters, the establishment of paternity in Michigan is often a significant first step for any legal matter involving the child(ren) of unmarried parties. Whether it is a father looking to exercise parenting time with a child who resides with his ex-girlfriend, or a mother hoping [..]
SOCIAL SECURITY RETIREMENT BENEFITS AND MICHIGAN DIVORCE An older, divorcing couple rarely has more than one or two assets worth more than their Social Security rights. After a house and pension/retirement plans, Social Security is their next largest “asset.” Yet it is rarely considered by their lawyers, mediators or the parties themselves. Few divorce lawyers [..]
This blog, Michigan Divorce: frequently asked questions, will answer the two questions that are asked most from divorce clients. What do I do prior to starting divorce proceedings? Gathering Information. Assemble as much information as possible regarding family financial matters. (1) Include copies of tax returns for the last three years; (2) lists of [..]
