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  • Howell, Michigan Divorce Lawyer

    An experienced divorce attorney serving Livingston County and Oakland County, Michigan

    The decision to end your marriage can be a very difficult one.  The Jeff Thomas Law Firm offers a free consultation to those ready to move forward in the divorce process as well as to those considering the option and looking for more legal information in order to make the best decision for your individual circumstances.  The free consultation can be held virtually, in person, or over the phone.

    How long does a free divorce consultation usually take?

    While many attorneys limit the initial consultation to a strict 45 minutes, the Farmington Hills divorce lawyers Jeff Thomas Law Firm understands the sensitive nature of divorce and gives the client the time she or he deserves.  There is no rushing the client off the phone or ending abruptly due to time constraints.  Terminating a marriage is such a big step in life that it deserves the proper attention and that is exactly what all of the firm’s clients receive.

    What questions regarding my divorce should I ask at my consultation?

    It may be that you are at the point where you need to move forward with ending your relationship, but you really are unsure of what questions to ask as the entire process seems overwhelming.  The Jeff Thomas Law Firm suggests you simply share your personal circumstances, and Jeff will guide you through what you need to know.  Rest assured that you are in good and capable hands.

    Can I file for a divorce without an attorney in Michigan?

    Sometimes, people choose to file for divorce without an attorney because they have mutually decided with their partner that it is unnecessary because they have agreed on all divorce related topics.  Others may choose to file for divorce without an attorney to save money.  The Jeff Thomas Law Firm’s Livingston County Divorce Attorneys strongly recommends that if children are involved, that an attorney guide you through the process.  For those couples without children, The Jeff Thomas Law Firm can explain the costs and benefits to filing either with or without an attorney so that you can make the most well educated decision.  In Jeff’s experience handling many divorce cases, even the most legally savvy clients are at a major disadvantage when filing without an attorney often due to the client’s need to maneuver around unexpected moves made by the client’s partner.

    How do I know if I need an uncontested divorce lawyer?

    Most divorce attorneys provide both contested and uncontested divorces. An “uncontested divorce” is a term used when both partners agree on all issues and legal paperwork is the only missing piece for the marriage to be considered dissolved.  Generally speaking, when children are involved, it is rare for truly uncontested divorce to exist but not impossible.  In most instances, a divorce that starts out as uncontested encounters new and unforeseen issues.  These issues are often brought on by the partner, and what began as an “uncontested” divorce turns out to be one with areas of conflict.  The Jeff Thomas Law Firm is both accustomed to and prepared to handle these matters and untangle the confusion and anger involved.

    Can my partner and I use the same divorce attorney?

    Good question.  No. The Jeff Thomas Law Firm will only represent you.  If your partner chooses not to get a lawyer, the Jeff Thomas Law Firm will only work for you.  Your best interests (and those of the minor children) are our only priority .  It is a conflict of interest to represent both parties.

    I am a domestic abuse victim, and I am scared to talk. Do you have any advice?

    If you are a victim of domestic violence, you may be living in fear every day.  Prior to making the initial phone call to the Jeff Thomas Law Firm, please be sure you are safe to make the call.  You may need to use an alternate phone or email address.  Check to ensure that your car and phone are not being tracked prior to coming to the office.

    Haven, in Oakland County, is a resource for women and men who are victims of intimate partner abuse.  Haven’s 24 hour crisis and support phone number is 248-334-1274 and the toll-free crisis line is 877-922-1274.

    The Jeff Thomas Law Firm has worked with many clients who experienced domestic violence.  It is an area of expertise of the firm. Jeff Thomas is sensitive to the nuances of intimate partner abuse and understands that intimate partner trauma is more often experienced as verbal attacks and manipulation in an effort for the partner to obtain power and control, though physical violence is sometimes, but not always, present.  If you are or have experienced domestic violence and are seeking a way out of the marriage but are afraid, the Jeff Thomas Law Firm will sensitively and cautiously help you to move in the positive direction you deserve for you and your family.

    Who will get the home in our divorce?

    Many factors go into determining who gets the marital home after a divorce.  One of several details to consider is whether the home was purchased prior to or after marriage.  If the home was purchased prior to marriage, were commingled funds used; that is, did the other parent contribute to the purchase or did it come from a joint account or one used by both parties and/or for typical household costs and can it be proven?  Throughout the marriage, did both partners contribute to the renovation or repairs in the home, etc.?  The Howell, MI Divorce Lawyers at The Jeff Thomas Law Firm will take inventory of pertinent information related to the finances of your home to give you a clear understanding of what is likely to happen in terms of final ownership.

    Do I have to prove to the courts that my partner is at fault?

    No.  Michigan is a no fault divorce state.

    I have decided to hire The Jeff Thomas Law Firm as my divorce attorneys. What are the next steps?

    1. Call (248) 826-8710 to set up initial consultation either virtually or in person.  Generally, the initial consultation can take place as soon as 24 to 48 hours.
    2. Submit funds for initial retainer.
    3. Sign filing paperwork.
    4. Collaborate with The Jeff Thomas Law Firm over the course of the next several months to tweak and re-tweak and finalize the judgement.
    5. Finalization of divorce generally between 6 months to a year and sooner than 6 months if the court approves.

    How much will my divorce cost?

    A divorce cost is based on the number of direct hours The Jeff Thomas Law Firms spends on the case.  There are instances when flat-fee rates are available. In comparison to other divorce attorneys in Michigan, The Jeff Thomas Law Firm fees, level of service, responsiveness, and attention to detail are unmatched.  The Jeff Thomas Law Firm can provide a more specific cost estimate upon the initial consultation.

    Areas our divorce lawyers service:

    • Howell, Michigan Divorces
    • Livingston County, Michigan Divorces
    • Oakland County, Michigan Divorces
    • Genesee County, Michigan Divorces
    • Ingham County, Michigan Divorces

    Speak with a Divorce Attorney