Your mind is made up. You want out of your marriage, and you’ve taken the step to file for divorce. However, your spouse won’t sign the papers or respond to anything you send their way. Maybe they’re stalling out of anger or think ignoring the situation will somehow stop it.
Whatever the reason, you may be wondering if you can still move forward. Fortunately, in Michigan, you can.
Divorce doesn’t require an agreement
Michigan is a no-fault divorce state. This means you don’t need to prove that your spouse did anything wrong. You also don’t need their permission or consent to end the marriage. If you believe the relationship is irretrievably broken, that’s enough for the court to begin the divorce process.
What if they ignore the papers?
Once you file for divorce, your spouse must be served with the divorce papers. It is a legal requirement that gives them a chance to participate in the process. Remember, you cannot serve your spouse the papers since you’re the one initiating the divorce. A qualified third party must do so.
Should your spouse ignore the papers or refuse to respond in time, you can request a default judgment. This allows the court to move forward with the divorce. In some cases, the judge may grant the terms you asked for, especially if your spouse does not respond or appear in court. It’s worth noting that Michigan law requires a waiting period before a divorce can be finalized.
Proceed with confidence
A non-cooperative spouse can make divorce more stressful and frustrating. However, your hands are not tied. The key is understanding your rights and having someone on your side who knows how to keep things moving and can guide you through the process. It can make all the difference in turning a difficult situation into a manageable one while helping you protect your interests.