One of the first questions people ask when considering divorce is: “How long will this take?” Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The divorce process in Michigan depends on several factors, including whether you and your spouse agree on the terms and whether children are involved.

This post breaks down the typical timelines, important deadlines, and what can speed up (or slow down) your divorce.

Minimum Waiting Period in Michigan

Michigan law requires a mandatory waiting period before a divorce can be finalized:

  • No children involved: 60-day waiting period from the date the Complaint is filed

  • Minor children involved: 180-day waiting period

These timelines are the minimum. The actual process can take longer depending on the complexity of your case and the level of cooperation between spouses.

Summary:
Every Michigan divorce must meet a minimum waiting period — 60 days without kids, 180 days with minor children.

Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce Timelines

The length of a divorce largely depends on whether it’s uncontested or contested.

  • Uncontested Divorce:
    Both parties agree on all issues (property, custody, support, etc.). These cases are usually faster and less expensive. With no children, some uncontested divorces wrap up shortly after the 60-day waiting period ends.

  • Contested Divorce:
    If you and your spouse disagree on one or more key issues, the case may require hearings, mediation, or even trial. These divorces often take 6–12 months or more.

Summary:
Uncontested divorces may finish near the waiting period mark. Contested divorces can take several months to a year or longer.

What Can Delay the Divorce Process?

Several factors can extend the time it takes to finalize your divorce:

  • Disagreements over child custody or parenting time

  • Complex property division (e.g. businesses, retirement accounts)

  • One party refusing to cooperate or delaying paperwork

  • Scheduling delays with the court system

  • Requests for evaluations, appraisals, or mediation

  • Changing attorneys or switching legal strategies mid-case

Even when both parties want to move quickly, the court’s calendar and the complexity of the case can create unexpected delays.

Summary:
Custody disputes, financial complexity, court schedules, or lack of cooperation can slow your case significantly.

Can You Speed Up a Divorce in Michigan?

While you can’t eliminate the mandatory waiting period, there are ways to keep your case moving:

  • Respond promptly to your attorney’s requests

  • Complete financial disclosures early

  • Be willing to negotiate and compromise

  • Attend all scheduled court dates and mediation sessions

  • Avoid unnecessary disputes over minor issues

In some rare cases (such as extreme hardship or emergency situations), a judge may waive parts of the waiting period, but this is uncommon.

Summary:
You can’t skip the waiting period, but staying organized and cooperative helps avoid delays.

What If You and Your Spouse Reconcile Midway?

If you and your spouse decide to pause or stop the divorce after filing, you have a few options:

  • Ask the court for an adjournment (a pause in the proceedings)

  • File a motion to dismiss the divorce case altogether

Your attorney can help you handle this process properly to avoid future legal issues if you later decide to refile.

Summary:
You can pause or dismiss the case if you reconcile — but the court must be notified through proper legal steps.

Final Thoughts

No two divorces are the same, and the timeline can vary widely based on your situation. The best way to avoid unnecessary delays is to work with an experienced attorney who knows the local courts, understands Michigan divorce law, and can help you navigate the process as efficiently as possible.

At David J. Dart, P.C., we’ve guided clients across Plymouth, Northville, Canton, Novi, Ann Arbor, and surrounding areas through both simple and complex divorce cases. We’ll help you understand the process, protect your interests, and move forward with confidence.

Contact us today for a free phone consultation.

*General Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws change, and the information here may not reflect the most current legal standards or apply to your specific situation. Reading this page does not create an attorney‑client relationship. For advice about your particular case, you should consult a qualified attorney