Family Law

Family Practice Areas

Divorce

Divorce law in Michigan requires that the court finds that there has been a breakdown of the marital relationship to the extent that the objects of matrimony have been destroyed, and there remains no reasonable likelihood that the marriage can be preserved. We handle every situation in a very sensitive, supportive and caring manner, while providing you with the utmost in legal advice and representation.

Pre/Post Nuptial 

A pre-nuptial agreement is meant to handle the orderly disposition of property either in a divorce or a death. They are valid in Michigan and can cover every issue including property and alimony issues in the event of a divorce. It is important that you be carefully advised. In order for a pre-nuptial agreement to be enforced, they should be drafted in an arm’s-length transaction, with each party having an attorney. 

Custody

In custody, as in all other aspects of your divorce, all decisions that you make should be fully informed for the sake of your children and own peace of mind in your ability to successfully co-parent with your former spouse. Lippitt O’Keefe  will be mindful of what form of joint physical custody arrangement might be best for your family bearing in mind that the key is the best interests of your child or children. 

Property

A major aspect of every divorce is the division of property. Before dividing property, we must first determine what property there is in your marital estate. Lippitt O’Keefe goes through a careful discovery process to determine exactly what there is in the marital estate. Once there has been a determination as to exactly what property there is in a marriage, we will sit down and advise you as to what division of property makes sense. 

Support

Spousal support is the legal term for alimony and is dependent on several factors. These include the length of the marriage, the age of the parties, the educational background of the parties, the income level, the needs of the parties, health factors, the reason for the breakup of the marriage, including fault factors, as well as the factual situation involved. in Michigan Family Law.

Post Judgement

Family law appeals and post judgment issues can be very complicated, and it is important that they be considered on a case by case basis. Every situation is different, with most appeals being filed after a trial or hearing by the litigant who is unhappy with the result. The appeal process can take anywhere from nine months to a year and consists of ordering a transcript, writing briefs, often having oral arguments at the Court of Appeals, and then waiting for a decision. Apart from appeal cases, circumstances can change post judgment such that support or visitation orders require revising. We are happy to advise you on your case appeals and post judgment concerns.