Dividing the Marital Assets and Debts
Property division is a highly contentious issue in many divorces. It can also be a very complicated exercise in accounting especially in long term marriage, or marriages involving business interests and substantial real estate holdings.
At the Law Offices of Kelly G Lambert III, P.C., in Grand Rapids, Michigan, we can provide the legal guidance and representation you need to obtain a fair property settlement as part of your divorce. At our firm, you'll also receive the personal attention you deserve. We listen. We take time to explain how the law applies to your situation and what your rights are. We help you understand your options, set goals and choose the course of action that's right for you. You will always meet with an attorney who can answer your questions and address your concerns.
Wherever property settlements are concerned — you can count on our attorneys to protect your rights in negotiations, in mediation or in court. To schedule a free consultation, call our law offices directly or contact us online today.
Divorce and Marital Property Settlements
Michigan is an "equitable distribution" state. In practical terms, this means that when two spouses cannot reach a property settlement agreement on their own — a judge will divide the marital assets and debts in whatever way he or she thinks is "fair" or equitable given the circumstances. By law, fair or equitable does not mean equal! Judges have a great deal of discretionary power with this aspect of divorce and may even consider "fault" in their decision, even though Michigan is a no-fault state (fault is not a consideration for obtaining a divorce in Michigan. However, it is a permissible factor for consideration in dividing marital property and debt.)
As a firm, we work to help our clients reach a workable property settlement agreement in order to avoid putting this issue in the hands of a judge. However, we will not hesitate to take your case to court when your spouse refuses to be reasonable. If so, we will position your case as favorably as possible in order to maximize your property settlement award.
Preparing a strong property division case backed by solid facts often requires outside assistance. As an experienced firm, we've built working relationships with a wide range of experts, including accountants, business valuation specialists and real estate appraisers.
For a broader overview of these issues, we encourage you to take a look at the articles provided in our non-community family law practice center.
Free Initial Consultations
Grand Rapids Area: 616-773-2764
Toll Free: 888-692-9078
If you're concerned about the issue of property division — call either of the two phone numbers listed above or contact us online to make arrangements for a free consultation with one of our lawyers.
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