A Divorce Attorney Who Puts You First

There are few things in life more challenging than divorce. If you’re separating from your spouse, there are a number of legal considerations to bear in mind. Keeping a clear head during this difficult period can be exceptionally hard – which is why it’s important to work with a divorce attorney you can rely on.

Anne E. Lewis offers robust divorce law services designed to meet the needs of virtually every family. As a trusted divorce lawyer in Grand Rapids, she prides herself on her ability to provide each and every one of her clients with robust, thorough representation. She guides her clients throughout every step of the divorce process.

What Is The Divorce Process?

The subsequent steps in a divorce can vary depending on your case, but they generally follow this order:

• Petition: The spouse initiating the divorce files a petition with the court, formally starting the legal process.
• Discovery: Both parties exchange relevant information and documents about assets, liabilities and other essential matters.
• Mediation: This can help couples overcome sticking points that are preventing them from reaching necessary agreements.
• Trial (if necessary): Attorney Lewis can offer thorough representation in court if your issues remain unresolved and the case proceeds to trial.

Ms. Lewis specializes in various types of divorce matters, including:

• Contested divorce: If the spouses cannot agree on issues such as property division, child custody or support, a contested divorce may be necessary. She provides strategic advocacy to protect her client’s interests and achieve favorable outcomes in court.
• High-asset divorce: Separation involving significant assets requires attention to detail and expert financial analysis. Attorney Lewis has the experience and expertise in complex asset division, ensuring her clients receive their fair share of marital property.
• Military divorce: This type of divorce has unique challenges, including issues related to service members’ pensions, deployment and relocation. She understands the intricacies of military divorce law and provides compassionate guidance to military families facing dissolution of marriage.
• Same-sex divorce: With the legalization of same-sex marriage, same-sex couples face similar challenges in divorce proceedings. Attorney Lewis is committed to advocating for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and ensuring their legal rights are protected throughout the divorce process.
• Uncontested divorce: If spouses can agree outside the court, an uncontested divorce offers a more streamlined and cost-effective solution. Attorney Lewis facilitates amicable settlements and helps clients easily navigate the uncontested divorce process.

Divorce is challenging, but working with the right divorce attorney can make all the difference. The duration of the divorce depends on factors such as the case’s complexity, whether it’s contested or uncontested and other Michigan-specific legal procedures and requirements.

How Do You Best Approach A Divorce?

Like most, you probably want your divorce to proceed as smoothly as possible. With that goal in mind, here is a “do-and-do-not” approach to consider adopting:

• Do maintain open and respectful communication with your spouse to avoid unnecessary conflicts.
• Do keep detailed records of all financial transactions, communications, and any incidents that may be relevant to the divorce proceedings.
• Do change passwords and secure personal information to prevent unauthorized access.
• Do prioritize the well-being of your children by keeping them out of conflicts and maintaining a stable environment.
• Do not use social media recklessly or post anything that could be used against you in court.
• Do not make impulsive or hasty decisions regarding finances, marital property and child-related issues.
• Do not use children as messengers or involve them in adult conflicts.
• Do not engage in behaviors that may appear hostile or aggressive, as it may impact court decisions.

You should also be careful not to do anything that could make it seem like you are hiding assets or you could face severe legal consequences.

What Happens If Your Spouse Does Not Want To Divorce?

You can still get a divorce. Michigan is a no-fault divorce state, requiring neither spouse to prove marital wrongdoing.

If your spouse refuses to participate, the court can proceed with the proceedings. The other spouse will be served with divorce papers and given an opportunity to respond. If they do not, the court may issue a default judgment granting the divorce and making decisions about property division, custody and support based on the available information.

How Can You Keep The Legal Costs Of Divorce Down?

Several different strategies can help you manage the legal expenses associated with getting a divorce. Consider one or a combination of these:

• Agree on major issues: Try to reach agreements on issues involving property and children to avoid prolonged litigation.
• Strive for an uncontested divorce: If both parties agree on the terms of the divorce, uncontested proceedings can be quicker and less expensive.

Another way to keep your expenses down is to divorce through mediation. This alternative to litigation can help you manage divorce costs by resolving disputes outside of court, reducing legal fees and expediting the process. It encourages cooperation and agreement on major issues, often eliminating or minimizing the need for prolonged litigation.

Helping You Make Difficult Decisions

There are many aspects to a divorce, from determining child and spousal support to dividing assets, investments and other property. In addition, emotions can run high and decisions that once seemed trivial may now seem arduous. At Anne E. Lewis, P.L.C., you can find help to get through this difficult time and make the important decisions that will matter in your life going forward. The services Ms. Lewis offers include, but are not limited to:

• Assistance throughout the division of assets such as real estate, cars and other personal possessions
• Help to determine fair child support payments and child custody or visitation
• Advocacy throughout the process to determine spousal support
• Guidance to divide complex assets such as retirement accounts and investments

In addition, she can help you resolve any of these issues and more outside of the courtroom through the possibility of mediation services. Anne E. Lewis is a certified mediator; she is committed to finding legal solutions that work for each of her clients.

Why Choose Anne E. Lewis, P.L.C.?

Attorney Anne E. Lewis understands that divorce can be emotionally challenging. For this reason, she prioritizes creating a comfortable and safe atmosphere for her clients. As the head of a small firm, Ms. Lewis focuses on effective communication and providing legal assistance tailored to her clients’ needs.

In addition, Ms. Lewis understands that each case is unique, allowing her to offer versatile and flexible representation that adapts to the circumstances of each case. She can advocate for clients in the courtroom with tenacity and expertise or negotiate a fair settlement when possible. When you hire attorney Anne E. Lewis, you’re not just getting a lawyer – you’re receiving comprehensive service.

Get Trusted Representation Through Your Divorce

When you need an advocate who can offer both compassionate guidance and fierce representation, call Anne E. Lewis, P.L.C. The divorce process can be long and complicated, but Ms. Lewis will be with you every step of the way.

Call her today at 616-818-1812 or send an email. You can schedule your first appointment today.