Family Law Attorney in Michigan

If I Am Getting Divorced, Will My Spouse and I Each Need to Pay for an Attorney?

Typically, each spouse must hire their own attorney to represent their interests in the divorce. Attorneys have a legal and ethical obligation to advocate for their client’s best interests. It would be a conflict of interest for one attorney to represent both parties involved.

You may find it tempting to hire just one attorney as a way of saving money. However, doing so could end up costing you much more down the road if the attorney’s principal allegiance was to your ex-spouse.

What Are Family Law Matters That May Require an Appeal?

If you suspect the court made an error during your family law case, you may appeal the decision. Some common family law matters that may require an appeal include the following:

• Divorce
• Child custody and visitation orders
• Property division orders
• Spousal support orders
• Domestic violence restraining orders, also known as personal protection orders
• Change of school or change of domicile orders
• Parental alienation

To appeal a family court decision, you must file a notice of appeal within a specific timeframe (usually 21 days in Michigan). Having an experienced family law attorney handle your appeal is important, as the appeals process can be complex and requires specific legal knowledge and skills.

What Property/Asset Division Issues Often Arise in a High Net Worth Divorce in Michigan?

High net worth divorces can be particularly complex regarding property and asset division. Disputes often arise over valuable assets, including the following:

• Homes – High net worth couples often own multiple homes, including vacation properties. Placing a fair value on these properties is crucial to a fair division of marital assets.
• Closely Held Business Interests – If one or both spouses own a business, or a spouse is part owner of a business, the couple will need to appraise the company’s value and include that in the division of assets. One spouse may need to buy out the other or arrange for the sale of the business.
• Real Estate Ventures – High net worth couples may have investments in real estate, such as rental properties or timeshares. Real estate professionals may need to review these properties to determine their fair value.
• Cars – Luxury vehicles and classic cars can be significant assets in a high net worth divorce while also holding sentimental value, potentially leading to disputes during asset division.
• Jewelry and Art – Divorcing spouses may need to hire specialists to appraise the current value of jewelry, artwork, and other collectibles in their possession.
• Stock Options and Retirement Assets – Stock options, 401(k) accounts, pensions, and other retirement accounts can be complex to value and divide in a divorce.
• Inheritance – An inheritance is commonly intended for just one spouse and is considered a separate asset. But in instances where inherited assets are commingled with marital assets, a judge could rule that they become marital property subject to division.
• Separate Property – Usually, separate property is not subjected to equitable division. But like inheritance, it could be if it’s commingled with marital assets. In addition, the court could order the property to be relinquished if the spouse who owns it has significantly more assets or a higher net worth than the other or if the other spouse contributed to the increase in value during the marriage.

Collaborating with a seasoned Michigan family law attorney with extensive experience managing high net worth divorces is crucial. They will know how to identify and evaluate complicated marital assets and often have connections to experts who can help them do so. When the stakes are this high, having a battle-tested advocate from Kraayeveld Family Law on your side is important.