Divorce Lawyer In Grand Rapids, Michigan

Last updated on May 20, 2026

Compassionate, Experienced Divorce Counsel In West Michigan

Most people who get married don’t expect things to end. If they do, however, they must have someone in their corner who can guide them through the ups and downs of the divorce process so they can focus on finding joy and meaning in their post-married life.

Lawyer Mike Toburen at Toburen Law PLC strives to work with his clients to resolve issues how they see fit. As a certified divorce mediator, Mike brings a high level of specialized credentialing to the table, ensuring that your case is handled with professional precision. He is committed to adapting his approach to fit the needs of each of his clients and helping them advocate for their interests during what can be an emotionally turbulent life event.

An Attorney Who Meets His Clients Where They’re At

Even the most civil divorce can present a host of legal hurdles. Those hurdles can include:

• Property distribution: Determining which assets belong to whom and whether spouses obtained those assets before or during the marriage.
• Child custody: Determining how parents want to split time with their kids, who the kids will spend the holidays with, and what’s in the children’s best interests.
• Child support: Determining parents will financially support their kids now that they’re no longer together.
• Spousal support: Determining how much one spouse will need in monthly payments to maintain their current standard of living.

Mike can help put his clients at ease by giving them knowledgeable, compassionate and educated advice. When he meets with them, he lets them vent. Mike understands that divorce is one of the most emotional challenges people can endure and wants to lend an open ear. Once he gets a solid understanding of his client’s circumstances, needs, concerns, and goals, he takes that information to create a tailored legal strategy that helps his clients start to untangle their marriage in a way that allows them to advocate for the outcomes they want.

Do You Need A Divorce Lawyer In Michigan?

Have you ever asked, “Do I need a divorce lawyer in Michigan?” While a lawyer is not legally required, representation is crucial when property, custody or support issues exist. Unfortunately, risks increase when spouses disagree about parenting time, asset division or support. Additionally, DIY filings often contain errors involving service, financial disclosures or judgment language, which can cause enforceability problems later.

A lawyer is essential when your spouse has counsel, when the case involves complex assets or when you face a contested divorce situation. Attorney Toburen can help you understand uncontested vs. contested divorce in Michigan, avoid procedural errors and protect your interests at every stage. Skilled guidance can facilitate a final judgment that reflects accurate terms and complies with Michigan law.

Types Of Divorce In Michigan

Several approaches to ending a marriage are available. The types of divorce in Michigan vary based on conflict level, cooperation and case complexity.

Uncontested Divorce

An uncontested case occurs when spouses agree on all issues. An uncontested divorce in Grand Rapids is typically faster and less costly.

Contested Divorce

A contested case involves disputes about custody, support or property. These matters may require court involvement and structured litigation.

Collaborative Divorce

Collaborative divorce uses trained professionals who help spouses reach solutions without undue courtroom conflict.

Divorce Mediation

Mediation involves a neutral mediator. They guide discussions and help spouses resolve their issues through structured negotiation.

NAPNAME helps families choose the most effective path based on their circumstances.

How To File For Divorce In Grand Rapids, Michigan

Understanding how to file for divorce in Michigan helps you prepare for the Grand Rapids divorce process. The case begins by filing a complaint in Kent County Circuit Court. Michigan requires at least 180 days of state residency and 10 days of county residency before filing.

Filing fees generally range from approximately $175 to $255, depending on whether minor children are involved. After filing, the complaint must be properly served on the other spouse. The court then issues scheduling orders that outline the required steps.

The process includes making financial disclosures, addressing parenting requirements when children are involved and fulfilling mandatory waiting periods. Timelines vary based on case complexity, but most cases require careful document preparation and consistent compliance with court rules. Attorney Mike Toburen will guide you through each stage to help ensure accuracy and efficiency.

What Is Collaborative Divorce?

Collaborative divorce is a legal process governed by the Michigan Uniform Collaborative Law Act. This method allows couples to end their marriage privately and respectfully without entering a courtroom. While a judge makes final decisions in a standard divorce, collaborative divorce relies on a voluntary participation agreement signed by both parties and their attorneys. This contract binds everyone to reach a settlement without litigation.

Michigan law enforces a disqualification rule for this process. Attorneys represent their clients solely to reach a settlement. If the process ends without an agreement, the law requires the attorneys to withdraw, and both parties must hire new lawyers for court. This rule ensures the focus remains on finding solutions rather than preparing for trial.

Mike Toburen is a Michigan SCAO-approved Domestic Relations Mediator. He facilitates these discussions to help families reach lasting agreements. The process often includes neutral experts, such as financial specialists and child experts, who work together to create a fair settlement.

Benefits Of Collaborative Divorce

The collaborative approach offers specific advantages for families in West Michigan:

• Control over decisions: You and your spouse determine the timeline and the result. By writing your own Consent Judgment, you prevent a judge from making choices about your children or assets.
• Privacy: Under MCL 691.1347, communications in this process are privileged and generally inadmissible in court. While your final judgment is a public filing, the details of your negotiations remain confidential.
• Better communication: This process reduces conflict. Without the threat of a trial, parties can speak more effectively, which helps maintain a civil relationship for future co-parenting.
• Efficient use of time: Michigan law requires a waiting period for all divorces – 60 days for couples without children and 6 months for those with children. You can use this window to resolve all legal details, often avoiding the delays of a court trial docket.
• Creative results: Collaborative law allows for settlements that a court may not have the authority to order, such as unique property agreements or custody schedules.

Selecting a lawyer who prioritizes clear communication and specific legal options helps you reach a fair resolution.

Work With A Pragmatic And Versatile Divorce Lawyer

Divorce requires a lawyer who adapts to the Michigan Court Rules. Mike Toburen provides the guidance you need. He assists with collaborative settlements under MCR 3.222 and represents clients in the courtroom. Contact Toburen Law PLC at 616-818-1842 or use this contact form to schedule a consultation.