Michigan Divorce Attorney Jannelle Zawaideh

West Bloomfield, Michigan is a charter township, included in Oakland County. The township includes the unincorporated community of Westacres. In 2010, the U.S. Census showed a population of 64,690 residents. Elections, voter registration and permits are handled by the local Township Clerk's office.

The Townships of West Bloomfield and Bloomfield are covered by the 48 th District Court, located in Bloomfield. Court Judges and Magistrates will perform marriage services for residents of the jurisdiction. Marriage licenses are obtained at the Oakland County Clerk's Office. Residents of the area are governed by Michigan Family Law in all domestic areas.

Divorce

Grounds for divorce in Michigan include breakdown of the marital relationship. The state does offer No Fault divorce. One party in the marriage must be a Michigan resident for 180 days prior to filling for a divorce. The party must also be a resident of the county where the filing occurs for 10 days preceding the application.

Annulment

A marriage can be annulled in Michigan for a variety of reasons. These include force, fraud, underage marriage and certain mental and physical limitations. Time limits from the date of marriage to the annulment request do apply. Michigan does not recognize certain marriages between relatives and same sex marriages are currently prohibited. Do seek the advice of an experienced attorney for current information on individual cases.

Prenuptials

The state recognizes pre-marital agreements. However, it is advisable to have prenuptial or postnuptial documents drawn up by an experienced attorney to ensure that all legal requirements are met.

Spousal Support

Spousal support can be awarded to either party in Michigan. The support agreement can be temporary or awarded for life or until remarriage. Michigan courts use a variety of factors in determining the amount of support. These issues include the standard of living prior to the divorce, the ability to work, the need for support and the duration of the marriage.

Property Division

Michigan uses the Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act for regular property division. However, in the event of divorce, Michigan is not a community property state. An attorney should be consulted to understand current laws regarding property division, inherited property and debt allocation, as each case is unique.

Child Custody

When it comes to child custody issues, like all states, Michigan will base custody on the best interests of the child. The Uniform Child Custody Act is used and joint custody is an option. In addition, the child's wishes will be considered and grandparents are allowed visitation rights.

Child Support

Child support is determined by the court and enforced by the Friend of the Court. A set of formulas are used to determine the amount of support that is required. Failure to pay child support can result in driver's license suspension as well as the suspension of recreational licenses. A professional license may also be suspended is support is two months in arrears. If unpaid support exceeds $2,500, a passport may be revoked.

Paternity

In order to receive child support or any form of custody, paternity must be established when an unwed mother gives birth. This is also the case if a birth occurs more than 10 months after the end of a marriage. An Affidavit of Parentage can be used in the courts. DNA testing may be ordered if an affidavit is not signed willingly. JZ Law specializes in Family Law services. Contact us today.