Royal Oak Divorce Lawyer
Rebuilding Life Starts with the Right Legal Help
Deciding to end a marriage often brings a flood of emotions—grief, confusion, anger, even relief. No matter what you’re feeling, you’re not alone. Divorce marks a major turning point in life. During this time, reliable legal guidance can make a real difference. Whether you’re just starting to think about separating or you’re already in the middle of the process, a Royal Oak divorce attorney from Friedman Law Firm can help you move forward with clarity and strength.
Friedman Law Firm has helped families in Royal Oak and nearby communities like Woodward Avenue, Vinsetta Park, and the area around Red Run Golf Club for years. Our team brings decades of experience in Michigan divorce and family law. We focus on what matters most to our clients—protecting their children, securing their financial futures, and helping them make smart decisions when the stakes are high.
Divorce doesn’t just end a marriage—it reshapes your daily life, your time with your children, and your financial outlook. At Friedman Law Firm, we take that seriously. Our attorneys offer support, strategy, and steady communication every step of the way. You’re not just hiring a law firm. You’re choosing an ally committed to helping you get through one of life’s toughest transitions with dignity and purpose.
If you’re thinking about divorce—or your spouse has already filed—contact us today. We offer confidential consultations so you can get answers and decide your next steps with confidence.
Our Divorce Services in Royal Oak
Family law isn’t one-size-fits-all. Divorce looks different for everyone, and each client walks through our door with a unique story. At Friedman Law Firm, we tailor our legal strategy to your specific needs—whether you’re settling things amicably or preparing for a contested courtroom battle. Here’s how we help.
Contested Divorce Representation
When spouses disagree on important issues like custody, property division, or support, a contested divorce may be necessary. We work hard to protect your interests through negotiation and, if needed, strong courtroom advocacy. We guide you through discovery, hearings, and trial preparation with focus and care.
Uncontested Divorce Facilitation
Even when spouses agree on the main points, the paperwork still has to be done properly. We help you draft your agreement, handle filings, and finalize the divorce efficiently. Our goal is to make the process as smooth as possible so you can move on without unnecessary delays.
Legal Separation Agreements
Some couples prefer legal separation rather than divorce, often for financial, religious, or personal reasons. We draft formal agreements that define support, parenting time, and property arrangements while keeping the marriage legally intact.
High-Asset Divorce Handling
Dividing substantial assets—real estate, investments, retirement accounts, or business interests—requires precision. We collaborate with financial experts when needed to identify, value, and fairly divide complex marital property. Whether you live near Downtown Royal Oak or along Coolidge Highway, our firm handles high-stakes divorces with discretion and diligence.
Child Custody
Few issues stir emotions like child custody. We help you create parenting plans that reflect your child’s best interests while protecting your parental rights. If you expect conflict, we’ll stand ready to represent you in court and make your voice heard.
Child Support
We ensure that child support is calculated fairly based on Michigan guidelines. Whether you expect to pay or receive support, we work to make sure your children are provided for and your rights are respected.
Spousal Support
When one spouse has a financial advantage over the other, spousal support may be appropriate. We examine income, earning capacity, and the length of the marriage to fight for a fair arrangement—whether that means negotiating support or opposing unreasonable demands.
Prenuptial Agreements
Planning a wedding near the Detroit Zoo or the Royal Oak Farmers Market? A prenuptial agreement can protect both parties before marriage. We draft clear, enforceable agreements that set expectations and protect assets without harming the relationship.
Postnuptial Agreements
Postnuptial agreements work similarly to prenuptial ones—but after the wedding. Whether you’re working to rebuild trust or adjusting to a financial change, we help couples draft agreements that protect both spouses while preserving peace.
Why Choose Our Royal Oak Divorce Attorneys
Choosing a divorce attorney isn’t just about legal knowledge—it’s about trust, reliability, and knowing someone is ready to stand beside you through difficult decisions. At Friedman Law Firm, we offer more than representation. We offer a steady hand when everything else feels uncertain. Here’s what sets our Royal Oak divorce attorneys apart.
Local Knowledge of Royal Oak Courts
We’ve handled divorce and family law cases throughout Oakland County for years. Our attorneys understand how judges typically rule on parenting time, spousal support, and asset division in the Royal Oak area. That insight allows us to build strategies based on real-world experience—not guesswork.
More Than 30 Years of Collective Experience
With over three decades of combined legal work in Michigan family law, we’ve guided countless clients through every stage of the divorce process. Whether the issues involve custody disputes, high-value assets, or difficult negotiations, we bring seasoned legal judgment to every case.
Personalized Attention to Each Case
Every divorce involves unique relationships, goals, and concerns. We don’t believe in cookie-cutter solutions. Our attorneys work closely with you to understand what matters most and shape a plan that protects your interests. You won’t be passed off to junior staff or kept in the dark. Your case gets the full attention it deserves.
Compassionate Yet Aggressive Representation
Some situations call for compromise. Others require standing your ground. We know when to apply pressure and when to seek resolution. Our attorneys advocate firmly but thoughtfully—protecting your rights while working toward outcomes that keep long-term family peace in mind whenever possible.
Open Communication and Responsive Service
Clear, timely communication can ease a lot of the stress divorce brings. We keep you informed, explain your options in plain terms, and respond quickly to questions. Whether we’re preparing court documents or discussing a settlement offer, you’ll always know where your case stands.
Free Initial Consultations
Taking that first step shouldn’t feel risky. We offer no-cost, confidential consultations so you can speak directly with a divorce attorney, get your questions answered, and decide whether we’re the right fit—before committing to anything.
The Divorce Process in Michigan
Divorce in Michigan follows a defined legal path, but the steps can feel unfamiliar and intimidating when you’re in the middle of it. At Friedman Law Firm, we walk clients through every stage of the process with a clear plan and consistent support. Here’s how divorce works in Michigan, and what you can expect along the way.
Overview of Michigan Divorce Laws and Requirements
Michigan is a no-fault divorce state. That means either spouse can file for divorce without having to prove wrongdoing, like infidelity or abuse. The only requirement is to state that the marriage has broken down beyond repair and can’t be saved. However, the court may still consider behavior or misconduct when deciding issues like child custody or dividing property.
Residency Requirements
Before filing, at least one spouse must have lived in Michigan for a minimum of 180 days and in the county where the case is filed—such as Oakland County—for at least 10 days. If both spouses live in Royal Oak or nearby communities like Clawson or Berkley, the Oakland County Circuit Court will usually handle the case.
Grounds for Divorce in Michigan
The law requires only one ground for divorce: an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. That means the couple can’t repair the relationship, and at least one person no longer wants to stay married. Fault may still play a role in decisions about parenting time or how property gets divided, especially in contested divorces.
Timeline Expectations
The minimum waiting period for a divorce without minor children is 60 days from the date of filing. If minor children are involved, the waiting period increases to six months. The full timeline depends on whether the divorce is contested, how quickly each side exchanges financial information, and the court’s schedule.
In straightforward, uncontested cases, divorce may finalize within a few months. If there are disputes over custody, support, or property, the process can take longer, especially if court hearings or trials are necessary.
Common Challenges and How We Address Them
Several roadblocks can arise during a divorce. Some spouses try to hide assets. Others make false claims to gain leverage in custody disputes. Property values may be uncertain, especially when dealing with real estate or business ownership. Tensions can rise quickly during negotiations, slowing progress and increasing stress.
At Friedman Law Firm, we help you prepare for these scenarios from the beginning. We gather financial documents, consult outside professionals when needed, and bring firm representation to court hearings and mediation sessions. If a spouse refuses to cooperate, we use legal tools like subpoenas or discovery requests to get the information we need. You’ll always know your rights, your options, and what to expect at each step.
What Should I Do if Facing a Divorce in Royal Oak?
Start by getting legal advice. Even if you’re still undecided, a consultation helps you understand your rights and avoid early mistakes. Don’t move out, sign any documents, or make financial changes until you’ve spoken with an attorney.
- If you have children, keep routines steady. Try to avoid arguing in front of them or using them as messengers. Courts look closely at how parents communicate and cooperate.
- Gather financial records—tax returns, bank statements, retirement accounts, and real estate documents. The more prepared you are, the easier it will be for your attorney to protect your interests.
If you’re living near downtown Royal Oak, Clawson, or along Crooks Road, our office is easy to reach. Call today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step toward resolution.
FAQs About Royal Oak Divorces
How much does a divorce cost in Royal Oak?
Costs vary based on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. Filing fees, attorney fees, and expert costs can all affect the total. During your consultation, we’ll walk through possible scenarios and cost-saving strategies.
Can I get divorced without going to court?
If your divorce is uncontested and all paperwork is completed correctly, you may only need to attend a final hearing. Your attorney can often handle most of the process on your behalf.
What happens to the house in a divorce?
Michigan courts aim for an “equitable” division of marital property. That doesn’t always mean 50/50. One spouse might keep the home while the other receives offsetting assets or a buyout.
Do I have to move out during the divorce?
Not unless a court orders it. In many cases, spouses continue to live under the same roof until the divorce is finalized. However, doing so can increase tension, so it’s something to discuss with your attorney.
How is child custody decided in Royal Oak?
Courts look at what serves the child’s best interests, including relationships with each parent, the child’s school and home stability, and each parent’s ability to care for the child. Joint custody is common, but not automatic.
Contact Our Royal Oak Divorce Attorneys Now
Divorce often feels like uncharted territory—but you don’t have to go through it alone. The Royal Oak divorce lawyers at Friedman Law Firm offer strategic, compassionate legal support backed by decades of experience in Michigan family law.
From the first consultation to the final order, we’ll stand by you, fight for what matters, and work toward the best possible outcome for your future and your family.
Call family law attorney today at (248) 932-0900 to schedule your free initial consultation. Your next chapter starts here.