Blank Michigan Complaint Divorce PDF Form

Blank Michigan Complaint Divorce PDF Form

The Michigan Complaint Divorce form is a legal document that initiates the process of obtaining a divorce in Michigan. This form outlines the necessary information about both spouses, their marriage, and any children involved. If you are ready to begin the divorce process, fill out the form by clicking the button below.

The Michigan Complaint Divorce form is a crucial document for individuals seeking to dissolve their marriage in the state of Michigan. This form initiates the legal process and must be filed with the appropriate court. It requires detailed information about both spouses, including their names, addresses, and contact details, as well as their attorneys' information if they are represented. The form establishes jurisdiction by confirming that both parties have resided in Michigan for the requisite time before filing. Additionally, it outlines the essential aspects of the marriage, such as the date of marriage, the date of separation, and any minor children involved. The form also addresses property division and custody arrangements, indicating whether the parties have reached a Property Settlement Agreement. Importantly, it emphasizes that there are no other pending actions related to the family within the jurisdiction. Finally, the form concludes with a request for the court to grant a divorce and any other relief deemed appropriate, ensuring that all necessary details are presented for the court's consideration.

Document Sample

Original - Court

2nd copy - Plaintiff

4th copy - Friend of the Court

 

1st copy - Defendant

3rd copy - Return

STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

COUNTY FAMILY DIVISION

COMPLAINT FOR DIVORCE

Page 1 of 5 pages

CASE NO.

Court address

Court telephone No.

Plaintiff’s name, address, and telephone no(s).

V

Defendant’s name, address, and telephone no(s).

Plaintiff’s attorney, bar no., address, and telephone no.

Defendant’s attorney, bar no., address, and telephone no.

THERE IS NO OTHER PENDING OR RESOLVED ACTION WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF THE FAMILY DIVISION OF THE CIRCUIT COURT INVOLVING THE FAMILY OR FAMILY MEMBER OF THE PERSONS WHO ARE THE SUBJECT OF THE COMPLAINT.

THERE IS NO PENDING OR RESOLVED CIVIL ACTION ARISING OUT OF THE TRANSACTION OR OCCURRENCE ALLEGED IN THE COMPLAINT.

COMPLAINT FOR DIVORCE

NOW COMES the Plaintiff, _________________________, (Wife/Husband) and for

his/her Complaint For Divorce against the Defendant, _________________________,

(Wife/Husband) states as follows:

1.The Plaintiff Defendant Both Plaint and Defendant has/have been a resident of the State of Michigan for at least 180 days, and of _________________________

County, for at least 10 days, prior to filing this Complaint.

2.The statistical information of the parties is as follows:

Plaintiff

Name:

Name prior to marriage, if any Current Address:

Date of Birth:

Occupation:

Employer’s Name and Address:

Defendant

Name:

Name prior to marriage, if any Current Address:

Date of Birth:

Occupation:

Employer’s Name and Address:

- 1 -

STATE OF MICHIGAN

COMPLAINT FOR DIVORCE

CASE NO.

JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

 

COUNTY

Page 2 of 5 pages

 

FAMILY DIVISION

 

 

Court address

 

Court telephone no.

 

 

 

Plaintiff

V

Defendant

3.On the ______ day of __________, the Plaintiff, _________________________, was legally married to the Defendant, _________________________, in the County of

_______________. The Wife’s maiden name was _________________________.

4.The Plaintiff, _________________________, and the Defendant,

_________________________, lived and co-habited together as Husband and Wife until on or about ____________________, on which date they separated.

5.The parties have do not have property to be divided.

6.There are _______ minor children of said marriage:

Name

 

Date of Birth

 

Social Security Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7.Pursuant to MCL 722.1209, Plaintiff states:

a.The children presently reside with _________________________ at

_________________________ and for the last five years have resided with

_________________________ at _________________________.

b.I have have not participated as a party or witness or in another capacity, in another child custody proceeding concerning the children.

c.I know do not know of a proceeding that could affect the current child custody proceeding, including a proceeding for enforcement or a

COMPLAINT FOR DIVORCE

CASE NO.

- 2 -

STATE OF MICHIGAN

 

 

 

JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

Page 3 of

5 pages

 

COUNTY

 

 

 

 

FAMILY DIVISION

 

 

 

Court address

 

 

Court telephone no.

 

 

 

 

Plaintiff

V

Defendant

proceeding relating to domestic violence, a protective order, termination of parental rights, or adoption.

d.I know do not know of any person who is not a party to this child custody proceeding and has physical custody of the children or claims rights of legal custody or physical custody of , or parenting time with, the children.

8.There has been a breakdown in the marriage relationship to the extent that the objects of matrimony have been destroyed, and there remains no reasonable likelihood that the parties' marriage can be preserved.

9.The parties own and possess, jointly and individually, miscellaneous household effects, household goods, furniture, fixtures, motor vehicles, real and personal property. The parties will execute a Property Settlement Agreement resolving all property and debt issues of the Parties, dispensing with the necessity of the Court making a division of the parties’ assets and debts.

10.All issues regarding the care and custody of the parties’ minor children, including issues of support and visitation, will be resolved by the Separation and Property Settlement Agreement to be executed by the parties.

WHEREFORE, the Plaintiff prays that:

A.The marriage between the Plaintiff and the Defendant be dissolved and that a divorce from the bonds of matrimony be adjudged, according to the statute in such case made

-3 -

STATE OF MICHIGAN

COMPLAINT FOR DIVORCE

CASE NO.

JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

 

COUNTY

Page 4 of 5 pages

 

FAMILY DIVISION

 

 

Court address

 

Court telephone no.

 

 

 

Plaintiff

V

Defendant

and provided;

B.That the Property Settlement Agreement be approved by the Court;

C.

or

That wife be restored her maiden name of ________________,

No restoration of name is requested;

D.The Plaintiff be granted such other or further relief as this Court may deem just

and equitable.

Dated: ____________________

____________________________________

 

Plaintiff Signature

 

Address

 

City, State Zip

 

Phone

 

 

 

 

Plaintiff

 

 

 

 

 

 

Defendant

Name:

 

 

Name:

Name

prior to marriage, if any

 

 

Name

prior to marriage, if any

Current Address:

 

 

 

 

 

Current Address:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date of Birth:

 

Date of Birth:

Occupation:

 

 

 

 

Occupation:

 

 

Employer’s

Name and Address:

 

 

Employer’s

Name and Address:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- 4 -

STATE OF MICHIGAN

COMPLAINT FOR DIVORCE

CASE NO.

JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

 

COUNTY

Page 5 of 5 pages

 

FAMILY DIVISION

 

 

Court address

 

Court telephone no.

 

 

 

Plaintiff

V

Defendant

STATE OF MICHIGAN

)

 

)ss.

County of ____________________

)

On this ______ day of _________________________, 20______, before me, a Notary

Public, in and for said County, personally appeared _________________________, to me known

to be the same person described in and who executed the foregoing Complaint for Divorce and who acknowledged the same to be his/her free act and deed, and that the same is true on his/her knowledge, except to those matters therein stated to be on information and belief, and he/she believes the same to be true.

_____________________________

Notary Public

My Commission Expires: ____________________

- 5 -

File Specifics

Fact Name Details
Governing Law The Michigan Complaint for Divorce form is governed by Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) 552.6 and MCL 722.1209.
Residency Requirement At least one party must have been a resident of Michigan for a minimum of 180 days prior to filing.
County Residency The filing party must also reside in the county where the complaint is filed for at least 10 days.
Copies Required The form requires multiple copies: one for the court, one for the plaintiff, one for the defendant, and one for the Friend of the Court.
Minor Children The form requires information about any minor children from the marriage, including names and dates of birth.
Property Division Parties can state whether they have property to divide, and they may execute a Property Settlement Agreement.
Separation Date The form requires the date of separation between the parties to be included.
Name Restoration The form allows for the restoration of a wife’s maiden name upon request.
Notary Requirement The completed form must be notarized to verify the identity of the person filing.
Final Relief Requested The plaintiff can request additional relief as deemed just and equitable by the court.

How to Use Michigan Complaint Divorce

After completing the Michigan Complaint Divorce form, the next steps involve filing it with the appropriate court and ensuring that all parties receive their copies. This is a crucial part of the process to ensure that everyone is informed and that the case can proceed without delays.

  1. Obtain the Michigan Complaint Divorce form from the court or an official website.
  2. Fill in the court address and telephone number at the top of the form.
  3. Provide your name, address, and telephone number in the Plaintiff section.
  4. Enter the Defendant’s name, address, and telephone number in the appropriate section.
  5. If applicable, include the names and contact information for both parties’ attorneys.
  6. Indicate whether there are any other pending or resolved actions involving the family.
  7. State the residency information for both parties, confirming that both have lived in Michigan for at least 180 days and in the county for at least 10 days.
  8. Fill in the statistical information for both parties, including names, addresses, dates of birth, occupations, and employers.
  9. Provide the date and location of the marriage and the wife’s maiden name.
  10. State the date of separation.
  11. Indicate whether there is property to be divided between the parties.
  12. List any minor children from the marriage, including their names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers.
  13. Complete the section regarding child custody, including current living arrangements and any previous custody proceedings.
  14. Explain the breakdown of the marriage relationship and the likelihood of preservation.
  15. Detail the miscellaneous property owned by both parties and mention the Property Settlement Agreement.
  16. State how issues regarding minor children will be resolved.
  17. Complete the prayer for relief section, including requests for divorce and property settlement approval.
  18. Sign and date the form at the bottom.
  19. Have the form notarized as required.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the Michigan Complaint Divorce form?

The Michigan Complaint Divorce form is a legal document used to initiate divorce proceedings in the state of Michigan. This form outlines the basic information about the parties involved, their marriage, and any children they may have. It serves as the official request to the court to dissolve the marriage and includes details such as residency requirements, grounds for divorce, and arrangements for property and child custody.

Who needs to fill out the Complaint Divorce form?

Both the plaintiff and the defendant must provide information on the form. The plaintiff is the person initiating the divorce, while the defendant is the other spouse. It is essential for both parties to ensure that the information provided is accurate and complete, as this will affect the court's decisions regarding the divorce.

What information is required on the form?

The form requires various details, including:

  1. Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of both parties.
  2. Names and addresses of any attorneys representing the parties.
  3. Dates of marriage and separation.
  4. Information about minor children, including their names, dates of birth, and current living arrangements.
  5. Details about property ownership and any agreements regarding property division.

Providing accurate information is crucial, as it impacts the court's review and any subsequent decisions.

What happens after the form is submitted?

Once the Michigan Complaint Divorce form is submitted to the court, the court will review the document for completeness and compliance with legal requirements. A hearing may be scheduled to discuss the terms of the divorce, including custody arrangements and property division. Both parties may be required to attend this hearing to present their cases.

Can the form be modified after submission?

Yes, modifications can be made to the Complaint Divorce form after submission, but it typically requires additional steps. If changes are necessary, the party seeking the modification must file an amended complaint with the court. It is advisable to consult with an attorney to ensure that the changes are properly documented and submitted to avoid delays in the divorce process.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Failing to fill out all required fields can lead to delays. Ensure every section is completed, including names, addresses, and dates.

  2. Incorrect Residency Information: Misstating residency can result in the court dismissing the complaint. Verify that both parties meet the residency requirements of 180 days in Michigan and 10 days in the county.

  3. Missing Signatures: Not signing the form can halt the process. Both parties must sign the complaint before submission.

  4. Omitting Children’s Information: If there are minor children, failing to include their details can complicate custody arrangements. List all children and their relevant information.

  5. Incorrect Dates: Providing wrong marriage or separation dates can lead to confusion. Double-check these dates for accuracy.

  6. Not Notarizing the Document: A lack of notarization may invalidate the complaint. Ensure the form is notarized as required before submission.

  7. Ignoring Property Division: Not addressing how property will be divided can lead to future disputes. Clearly state any agreements regarding property and debts.

  8. Failure to Disclose Other Legal Proceedings: Not mentioning any ongoing legal actions can result in complications. Disclose any other relevant proceedings involving the parties or children.

  9. Inconsistent Information: Providing conflicting details between sections can create confusion. Ensure that all information is consistent throughout the form.

  10. Not Keeping Copies: Failing to keep copies of the submitted forms can lead to issues later. Always make copies for your records before filing.

Documents used along the form

The Michigan Complaint Divorce form serves as a foundational document in the divorce process, outlining the necessary details regarding the parties involved and the grounds for divorce. In addition to this form, several other documents are commonly required to ensure a smooth legal proceeding. Each of these documents plays a crucial role in addressing various aspects of the divorce, from custody arrangements to financial obligations.

  • Summons: This document notifies the defendant that a divorce action has been initiated against them. It provides essential information, including the time frame within which the defendant must respond to the complaint. The summons ensures that the defendant is aware of the legal proceedings and their rights.
  • Affidavit of Service: This form confirms that the defendant has been properly served with the complaint and summons. It includes details about how and when the documents were delivered. This affidavit is critical in establishing that the court has jurisdiction over the defendant.
  • Child Custody Affidavit: If there are minor children involved, this document outlines the current custody arrangements and addresses the best interests of the children. It includes information about the children's living situation and any previous custody proceedings, ensuring that the court has a comprehensive understanding of the family dynamics.
  • Property Settlement Agreement: This agreement details how the couple's assets and debts will be divided. It is a mutual understanding reached by both parties, often addressing issues such as property division, spousal support, and other financial matters. The court typically reviews and approves this agreement to ensure fairness.

These documents collectively facilitate the divorce process, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and that the interests of both parties, especially if children are involved, are adequately addressed. Understanding each form's purpose can help individuals navigate the complexities of divorce more effectively.

Similar forms

The Michigan Complaint Divorce form shares similarities with the Petition for Divorce, which is often the initial document filed in divorce proceedings. Both documents serve the purpose of formally requesting the court to dissolve a marriage. They require the same basic information, such as the names and addresses of both parties, the date of marriage, and the grounds for divorce. However, the Petition for Divorce may include additional details about the reasons for the divorce and the specific relief sought by the petitioner.

Another related document is the Summons, which is filed alongside the Complaint for Divorce. The Summons notifies the other party of the divorce proceedings and provides them with the necessary information about how to respond. While the Complaint outlines the details of the divorce, the Summons emphasizes the legal obligation for the defendant to appear in court and address the claims made against them.

The Affidavit of Service is another document that complements the Complaint for Divorce. This affidavit proves that the defendant has been properly served with the divorce papers. It includes details about how and when the documents were delivered. Without this affidavit, the court may not proceed with the case, as it is crucial to ensure that both parties are aware of the ongoing legal action.

The Financial Disclosure Statement is also essential in divorce cases, as it requires both parties to disclose their financial situations. This document is important for determining issues like property division and spousal support. While the Complaint for Divorce may mention property and financial matters, the Financial Disclosure Statement provides a more comprehensive overview of each party's assets, debts, income, and expenses.

In addition, the Child Custody Affidavit is similar in that it addresses matters related to minor children involved in the divorce. This document outlines each parent's current and past involvement with the children, their living arrangements, and any other relevant custody issues. While the Complaint for Divorce mentions children, the Child Custody Affidavit delves deeper into the specifics of custody arrangements and the best interests of the children.

The Marital Settlement Agreement is another related document that often arises during divorce proceedings. This agreement outlines how the couple intends to divide their assets, debts, and responsibilities regarding any children. While the Complaint for Divorce initiates the process, the Marital Settlement Agreement serves as a resolution to many of the issues raised in the Complaint, making it a crucial component of the divorce process.

The Parenting Plan is closely related to the Child Custody Affidavit, as it lays out the specific arrangements for the care and custody of children after the divorce. This document details visitation schedules, decision-making responsibilities, and other relevant parenting issues. While the Complaint for Divorce addresses the existence of children, the Parenting Plan provides a structured approach to their ongoing care and support.

The Notice of Hearing is another document that is often filed in conjunction with the Complaint for Divorce. This notice informs both parties of the scheduled court hearings related to the divorce case. It is essential for ensuring that both parties are aware of important dates and can prepare adequately for court appearances. The Notice of Hearing helps maintain transparency throughout the divorce process.

Lastly, the Judgment of Divorce is the final document that concludes the divorce proceedings. It formalizes the court's decision regarding the dissolution of the marriage and addresses all outstanding issues, including property division, custody, and support. While the Complaint for Divorce initiates the process, the Judgment of Divorce represents the culmination of all discussions and agreements made throughout the case.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Michigan Complaint Divorce form, it’s important to be careful and thorough. Here are seven things you should and shouldn't do:

  • Do read the entire form carefully before you start filling it out.
  • Don't leave any sections blank unless instructed to do so.
  • Do provide accurate and complete information about both parties.
  • Don't use nicknames or informal names; use legal names as they appear on official documents.
  • Do double-check your contact information to ensure it is correct.
  • Don't forget to sign and date the form before submitting it.
  • Do keep copies of the completed form for your records.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The Complaint for Divorce form is only for couples with children.
  • This is not true. While the form does include sections regarding minor children, it can also be used by couples without children. The process for divorce remains the same regardless of whether children are involved.

  • Misconception 2: Filing the Complaint for Divorce guarantees a quick divorce.
  • Filing this form is just the beginning of the divorce process. It sets the legal proceedings in motion, but the timeline for finalizing a divorce can vary greatly based on numerous factors, including court schedules and whether both parties agree on terms.

  • Misconception 3: You must have a lawyer to file the Complaint for Divorce.
  • While having legal representation can be beneficial, it is not a requirement. Individuals can represent themselves in divorce proceedings. However, it is advisable to understand the legal implications and processes involved.

  • Misconception 4: The Complaint for Divorce form is the only document needed for a divorce.
  • In reality, several documents may be required throughout the divorce process. This includes financial disclosures and potentially a property settlement agreement. Each case is unique, and additional paperwork may be necessary to finalize the divorce.

Key takeaways

  • Complete all sections: Fill out every part of the form, including names, addresses, and dates. Incomplete forms may delay the process.
  • Residency requirements: Ensure that both parties have lived in Michigan for at least 180 days and in the filing county for at least 10 days before submitting the complaint.
  • Provide accurate information: Double-check the names, dates of birth, and other personal details to avoid errors that could lead to complications.
  • Minor children: If there are children involved, include their names and dates of birth. This information is crucial for custody and support considerations.
  • Property settlement: Indicate whether there is property to divide. If a Property Settlement Agreement exists, mention it clearly in the form.
  • Sign and notarize: The form must be signed by the Plaintiff and notarized. Without a notary, the document may not be valid.
  • Multiple copies: Prepare the required number of copies: one for the court, one for the Plaintiff, one for the Defendant, and one for the Friend of the Court.

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