In Michigan, the act of initiating divorce proceedings doesn’t inherently grant a bonus to the submitting celebration. The court docket’s main focus is on equitable distribution of property, willpower of spousal and youngster assist (if relevant), and backbone of custody issues based mostly on the very best pursuits of any youngsters concerned. Submitting first doesn’t assure a extra favorable consequence in these areas.
Whereas the preliminary submitting does not present a authorized edge, it will probably supply some sensible concerns. The filer positive factors the power to set the preliminary tempo of the proceedings and choose the venue, which is likely to be extra handy logistically. Nevertheless, these benefits are typically minor and don’t have an effect on the court docket’s neutral analysis of the case’s deserves. Understanding this distinction is essential for people considering divorce in Michigan. Traditionally, misconceptions round “fault” in divorce proceedings contributed to the concept that the initiator held a bonus. Nevertheless, Michigan is a “no-fault” divorce state, which means neither celebration must show wrongdoing to dissolve the wedding.