What Documentation Do I Need Before Filing for Divorce in Michigan?

 Posted on February 29, 2020 in Divorce

For some couples, the end of a marriage may have been a long time coming. Regardless if spouses procrastinated with the decision to divorce or made it rather hastily, they must all follow the proper legal procedure to finalize it. Michigan is a no-fault state, which means couples do not have to prove that either party is to blame to obtain a divorce, just that the marriage is beyond repair. The dissolution of a marriage involves many issues that need to be resolved, including the division of assets or property, child custody, and child support. Determining who gets what in a divorce may require providing proof of finances, property, income, and more.

The Importance of Keeping Accurate Records

Computers and online storage systems can provide efficient ways of saving and organizing important forms, but sometimes it is helpful to retain hard copies, too. Although it may be cumbersome to hold onto a lot of paperwork, saving certain documents can benefit you in the long run. A few of the main areas in which you may be required to provide documentation throughout your divorce proceedings include:

• Proof of residency: Utility bills or rental agreements with your name and address
• Income: W-2 forms or paycheck stubs, plus tax returns you and your spouse filed jointly or separately within the last year
• Debt: Any outstanding credit card balances, student or car loans, and medical bills
• Assets: An itemized list of your marital and nonmarital assets, which can include vehicles, furniture, artwork, jewelry, and other personal items
• Real estate property: A mortgage statement or deed, as well as any documents related to rental properties you or your spouse may own
• Bank accounts: Checking or savings account statements in your names
• Retirement/Investment plans: Data on 401(k) or pensions to which either you or your spouse contributed throughout the marriage, in addition to mutual funds, stocks, bonds, and IRAs in either spouse’s name
• Life insurance: Information on any life insurance policies that were taken out
• Health issues: Medical records showing health history for all involved family members, including any children you have together
• Education/Childcare: If your children attend private school or daycare, bills showing the cost of these expenses

Contact a Farmington Hills Divorce Lawyer

The divorce process may seem daunting, especially to those who have never been through it before. There are many decisions that will need to be made, which often requires spouses to provide personal documents. It is important to be organized and prepared before filing for divorce. Speaking with an Oakland County asset division attorney can alleviate some of the stress you may feel about the necessary legal steps to terminate your marriage. Call the accomplished law firm of Elkouri Heath, PLC, today at 248-344-9700 to schedule your free consultation.

Source:
https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339-73970_2944_4669_4698---,00.html