When divorce is imminent, both parties typically want to get through the process as quickly as possible. It can be difficult to begin the emotional and psychological processes of moving forward with your life when you are dealing with present divorce issues and waiting for your divorce to be finalized. At the Law Offices of Michael A. Robbins, we routinely work with individuals who are focused on a divorce process that can get wrapped up as quickly as possible. We want to emphasize that, in some cases, it can benefit you to slow things down a bit, especially if it means a better outcome for you in the long run. At the same time, we want to provide you with some information about how you may be able to speed up your divorce process.
Recognize You Cannot Go Faster Than the Legal Waiting Period
You cannot simply file for divorce and get it over and done with more quickly than the law allows. Accordingly, when you are considering ways to speed up the divorce process, you will need to bear in mind that you cannot go faster than the required waiting period. Under Michigan divorce law, a married couple without minor children from the marriage will have a 60-day waiting period. A married couple with minor children from the marriage will have a six-month waiting period. As you seek to quicken the divorce timeline, you should take the waiting periods into account.
Work Toward an Uncontested Divorce
If you want a faster divorce, your goal should be an uncontested divorce. In an uncontested divorce, the parties agree to all terms. When parties agree, the divorce generally can go much more quickly. A contested divorce is one in which the parties disagree about even a single issue, even if they can agree to all other terms.
Consider Family Mediation
Using a mediator can allow the parties to reach an agreement and, ultimately, to have an uncontested divorce. A mediator is a neutral third-party who facilitates dialogue between the parties but does not issue any type of decision. If the parties cannot communicate and ultimately reach an agreement through mediation, the court may need to make a decision on any divorce disputes, which could lengthen the divorce process.
Use an Arbitrator
If mediation does not result in an agreement between you and your spouse, you may still have other options for avoiding a lengthy court case. Although arbitration may not be as common as mediation as a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in the area of family law, it may be possible for you and your spouse to agree to arbitration. The arbitrator is also a neutral third-party, but quite distinct from a mediator, an arbitrator will hear your case (more like a judge) and will issue a binding decision on the disputed issue (or issues). By choosing arbitration, you can avoid having to schedule court hearings, which can delay the divorce.
Contact a Divorce Attorney in Michigan
Whether you have questions with the divorce process or need assistance negotiating a divorce settlement, one of our experienced Michigan divorce lawyers can help. Contact the Law Offices of Michael A. Robbins to speak with a family law advocate about your case.