Over Two Decades Of Experience Serving The People Of Michigan

An Approachable And Compassionate Mount Clemens Divorce Attorney

When you are coping with the breakdown of your marriage – whatever the causes and complexities – it can be difficult to focus on your own needs. I am attorney Julie Hlywa. I founded the Law Offices of J. A. Hlywa, P.C., in Mount Clemens to help people navigate divorce and family law matters.

If you want an attorney who will listen closely to your side of the story, truly get in touch with your concerns, and be honest and direct about your options, I encourage you to contact me, attorney Julie Hlywa, for a free consultation.

Qualified Counsel For Your Dissolution Of Marriage Matters

If you and your divorcing spouse are able to agree on all major issues in this no-fault divorce state, you may be able to obtain an uncontested divorce. While this is the most time-efficient and cost-effective divorce option, it is still advisable to work with a lawyer to ensure that every issue is fully resolved and all paperwork properly filed.

Although Michigan does not recognize “legal separations,” there is an action titled “separate maintenance.” I also provide dedicated counsel to clients seeking separate maintenance or annulments. If necessary, I provide referrals to other professionals who can meet your reconciliation or counseling needs.

The Complications Of Executing A Divorce

Every divorce is as different as the couple who were married. There is a lot that needs to be decided when two people go their separate ways. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. I am here to guide you through the process and think of the things you might not know to think about. Together, we will establish a plan of action that accounts for your most important concerns, including:

Child custody: Taking all steps available to achieve your child custody and parenting time goals so you can continue building these all-important family relationships
Child support determination: Ensuring that the child’s best interests are considered when determining the amount of child support
Accurate spousal support: Ensuring that orders for spousal support, if any, are based on an accurate, complete picture of your financial resources and needs
Property division: Providing counsel or referrals on other financial issues that may pertain in your case, such as division of pensions, a bankruptcy or marital home sale

From the first meeting through the issuance of your divorce decree to any post-judgment issues, I will work with you personally. You will not be passed off to an assistant. I will help guide you through every step of the divorce process, no matter how complicated or contentious it might be.

Frequently Asked Questions About Filing For Divorce In Michigan

I know that if you are contemplating divorce, you probably have a lot of questions. Here, I answer some of the most common questions. If you still have questions about your specific situation, I offer a free initial consultation.

What is the process for filing for a divorce in Michigan?

To initiate a divorce in Michigan, you or your attorney must file a complaint with the circuit court in the county where you or your spouse lives. At least one spouse must have resided in Michigan for a minimum of 180 days before filing. After filing, the Complaint and Summons must be served to your spouse, providing them with a chance to respond.

As you navigate through the legal steps, including the mandatory waiting period of 60 days (or 6 months if minor children are involved), you will address matters such as property division, child custody, and support. Throughout the process, you and your lawyer will work together to negotiate a settlement with your spouse or prepare for trial if an agreement cannot be reached.

What are the grounds for divorce in Michigan?

Michigan is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you can file for divorce without proving that your spouse did something wrong. When filing for a divorce, the only requirement is that there was a breakdown in your marriage relationship, that the breakdown destroyed your relationship and that it is not likely or reasonable that the marriage can be saved.

While you don’t have to have a fault to get divorced, the court can consider the behavior of the parties and who caused the divorce when determining issues such as alimony, property division, or child custody. It is, therefore, important to discuss the specifics of your case with your attorney.

How is property divided in Michigan?

In the state of Michigan, property division during a divorce is based on the principle of equitable distribution. This means that marital property should be divided fairly, but not necessarily equally.

The court considers factors such as:

The length of the couple’s marriage
The contributions of each party
The age and health of the parties
Each person’s financial circumstances

It is important to have a clear understanding of which assets are considered marital property, as this will influence the division process. A knowledgeable divorce lawyer can provide guidance and represent your interests to ensure a fair division of assets and debts.

What are the options for child custody and visitation arrangements in Michigan?

Child custody and visitation arrangements in Michigan focus on the best interests of the child. The court considers several factors, including:

The emotional ties between the child and each parent
The parents’ ability to provide for the child
The child’s adjustment to home and school
The mental and physical health of all parties involved

Custody can be awarded as joint or sole, and typically includes both legal custody (decision-making power) and physical custody (where the child lives).

Visitation, also known as parenting time, is structured to ensure that the child maintains a strong relationship with both parents. If parents cannot agree on custody or visitation, the court will establish an arrangement that serves the child’s welfare.

Competence And Credibility In Court

As a dedicated family law attorney, I strive to be a knowledgeable, compassionate resource for men and women facing divorce in Macomb County and its surrounding communities. Although I will do everything possible to help you reach a divorce settlement through negotiation, your case may ultimately need to be resolved in court. I am an experienced trial attorney who will fight for you every step of the way.

Call Now For A Free Consultation

Please contact my office for a free initial consultation to discuss your specific case. Or call and speak with me or schedule an appointment at The Law Offices of J. A. Hlywa, P.C., at 586-251-0464.

“You guided me through the rough waters very capably, and for that I thank you. Divorce is no picnic, but it helps when you have a good lawyer, and I had the best!” — Margaret M., November 2005