Michigan Uncontested Divorce
File an uncontested divorce in Michigan without a lawyer. See if you qualify, understand the process, and learn how to save time and money. Updated for 2026.
What is an Uncontested Divorce?
An uncontested divorce is one where both spouses agree on all issues, including property division, debt allocation, child custody, child support, and spousal support. Because there is nothing for the judge to decide, these cases move through the court system much faster and cost significantly less than contested divorces.
Uncontested
- +Lower cost ($299 + filing fee with Divorce.ai)
- +Faster timeline (3-5 months)
- +Less stress and conflict
- +No lawyer required
Contested
- -Higher cost ($$10,000-$$60,000+)
- -Longer timeline (6-18+ months)
- -Higher conflict and stress
- -Attorney usually needed
Do You Qualify for an Uncontested Divorce in Michigan?
To file an uncontested divorce in Michigan, you generally need to meet these criteria:
Residency requirement met
At least one spouse has lived in Michigan for 6 months.
Agreement on property division
Both spouses agree on how to divide all marital assets and debts.
Agreement on child custody and support (if applicable)
If children are involved, both spouses agree on custody, visitation, and child support.
Agreement on spousal support (if any)
Both spouses agree on whether spousal support will be paid, the amount, and duration.
Spouse is willing to participate
Your spouse must either sign the agreement or be properly served and not contest the filing.
Check your eligibility in 5 minutes
Answer a few questions and Divorce.ai will tell you if an uncontested divorce is right for your situation.
Michigan Consent Judgment / Joint Petition Divorce
Michigan offers a streamlined consent judgment process where spouses who agree on all terms file a joint petition with a proposed consent judgment. This avoids formal service of process (both parties just get copies), does not require a summons, and has streamlined pretrial procedures. Both spouses must still attend a final hearing where the judge reviews paperwork and signs the consent judgment.
Requirements for Consent Judgment / Joint Petition Divorce
Both spouses agree on all issues (property, custody, support, everything)
Both spouses file a joint petition together with a proposed consent judgment and signed settlement agreement
Both complete domestic violence screening forms
If minor children or spousal support, both submit FOC 23 (Verified Statement)
Both spouses must attend a final hearing
Waiting period still applies (60 days without children, 180 days with children)
How to File an Uncontested Divorce in Michigan
Reach Agreement with Your Spouse
Discuss and agree on property division, debts, custody, support, and any other issues before filing. Write down your agreement — Divorce.ai can help you create a formal settlement agreement.
Complete Your Forms
Fill out the 5 required forms for Michigan. See the complete forms list.
File Your Petition
File the petition with your local court and pay the $175 filing fee. E-filing may be available in your county.
Serve Your Spouse
Even in an uncontested divorce, you must formally serve your spouse. In many cases, your spouse can sign a waiver of service to simplify this step.
Wait for the Mandatory Period
Michigan has a 60-day waiting period. Michigan has two waiting periods: 60 days from filing when no minor children are involved, and 180 days (6 months) from filing when minor children are involved. The 180-day period may be shortened to no less than 60 days upon showing of unusual hardship or compelling necessity, though this is rarely granted. No testimony may be taken and no judgment may be entered until the waiting period expires (MCL 552.9f).
Receive Your Final Decree
Once the waiting period ends and the court approves your agreement, you will receive your final decree of divorce. Some courts require a brief hearing; others approve by mail.
File your uncontested divorce with confidence
Divorce.ai prepares all your Michigan forms and settlement agreement. Guided, accurate, and affordable.
Common Mistakes in Uncontested Divorces
Not putting your agreement in writing
Verbal agreements are not enforceable. Always create a written settlement agreement filed with the court.
Forgetting about retirement accounts
401(k)s, pensions, and IRAs earned during marriage are marital property. Address them in your agreement even if one spouse doesn't claim them.
Incomplete financial disclosure
Michigan requires financial disclosure within 28 days. Hiding assets can void your agreement.
Skipping proper service
Even if your spouse agrees, improper service can invalidate the entire case. Follow Michigan's service rules carefully.