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Legal Separation in Michigan

How legal separation differs from divorce in Michigan. Process, rights, and when to choose it. Michigan follows equitable distribution.

Property Type

Equitable

Filing Fee

$175–$255

Median Cost

$9,000–$38,000

Annual Divorces

33,000+

Understanding Legal Separation in Michigan

To file for divorce in Michigan, you must meet Michigan’s residency requirement of 180 days. The filing fee is $175–$255. There is a mandatory waiting period of 60 days (no children), 180 days (children) before the divorce can be finalized.

Michigan only allows no-fault divorce. You file on the grounds of irreconcilable differences or irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.

An uncontested divorce in Michigan typically costs $9,000 and takes 2–4 months. Contested cases average $38,000 and can take 12–18 months or longer. The governing statute is MCL §552.6.

Common Questions

How long do you have to live in Michigan to file for divorce?
Michigan requires 180 days of residency before you can file for divorce. MCL §552.6 governs the filing requirements.
Is Michigan a community property or equitable distribution state?
Michigan follows equitable distribution rules, meaning the court divides marital assets fairly but not necessarily equally.
How much does a divorce cost in Michigan?
Filing fees in Michigan range from $175–$255. The median total cost is approximately $9,000 for uncontested divorces and $38,000 for contested cases.
How long does a divorce take in Michigan?
Michigan has a mandatory waiting period of 60 days (no children), 180 days (children). Uncontested divorces typically finalize in 2–4 months, while contested cases can take 12–18 months or longer.
How is child support calculated in Michigan?
Michigan uses the Income Shares model, based on both parents' combined income. The formula considers both parents' incomes, number of children, health insurance costs, and childcare expenses.

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Related Resources

This page provides general information about legal separation in Michigan and is not legal advice. Verify current statutes with MCL §552.6 or consult a licensed Michigan attorney. Last reviewed March 2026.