Ending a marriage is never easy, but Michigan’s joint divorce petition offers a way to navigate this transition with dignity and cooperation. When you and your spouse have already worked through the tough conversations about property, finances, and parenting arrangements, this streamlined approach can save time, money, and emotional stress.

Keep in mind that it is important to know your rights before coming to an agreement to ensure that you are coming to solutions from the empowered place of being informed and intentional. We regularly talk with clients before they enter into discussions with their spouse over the summary divorce process to ensure all issues have been considered, provide our clients with education and discuss possible solutions. We then fill the role of preparing the necessary documents to make the process smooth, supportive and stress free.

The Filing Process

With a joint petition, you both sign the same document and are referred to as “Party A” and “Party B” rather than adversarial terms like “plaintiff” and “defendant.” This small but meaningful difference reflects the cooperative and respectful nature of the process.

Uneven Knowledge of Finances

If one spouse has managed all financial matters and the other lacks information about assets or debts, a traditional divorce with formal discovery may be necessary to ensure fair division.

Tip: The most empowered decisions come from education and insight, rather than trust alone.

Power Inbalances

When one spouse has dominated decision-making or communication patterns, the less powerful spouse may agree to unfavorable terms just to “keep the peace.”

Tip: It is never wise to take advice from your opposing party, particularly when it is not a level playing field financially.

Complex Assets

Situations involving businesses, professional practices, or substantial investments benefit from the structured evaluation process of traditional divorce.

Tip: Professional valuation through discovery can identify hidden value, liabilities, and tax consequences that impact your equitable share.

Recent Emotional Trauma

If you’re still processing infidelity, feelings of guilt, fear, or overwhelm, you might not be in the best position to negotiate your long-term interests.

Tip: Give yourself time to process your feelings before making major financial decisions.