Michigan DIY Divorce: MiFILE and Forms

Michigan is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you don't need to prove wrongdoing—only that the marriage has broken down. The state offers multiple DIY-friendly pathways, including a joint petition option for couples who agree on all terms. Most Michigan courts now require or accept e-filing through the MiFILE system, making self-representation more accessible than ever.

Michigan's Waiting Periods

Michigan has mandatory waiting periods before a divorce can be finalized under MCL 552.9f:

• 60 days minimum: All divorces, cannot be waived
• 180 days (6 months): Cases with minor children
• Waiver: The 180-day period may be reduced to 60 days for "unusual hardship or compelling necessity"

Residency Requirements

Under MCL 552.9, at least one spouse must meet these requirements:

• State residency: 180 days (6 months) in Michigan before filing
• County residency: 10 days in the filing county

File in the Circuit Court (Family Division) for your county. Most courts accept or require e-filing through MiFILE.

DIY Divorce Pathways

Joint Petition (MCR 3.223)

The fastest DIY option when both spouses agree on all terms. You file a single joint petition with a proposed consent judgment—no summons required. The court schedules a hearing no sooner than 60 days after filing.

Standard Complaint

If you have partial or no agreement, one spouse files a complaint and serves the other. The defendant has 21 days to answer (28 days if served outside Michigan). Even contested cases often settle before trial through mediation.

Default Judgment

If your spouse doesn't respond within the deadline, you may request a default judgment. The court still requires a brief hearing to verify grounds and review your proposed judgment.

Required Michigan Forms

Key forms for Michigan divorce include:

• MC 01: Summons (standard cases only)
• MC 416: UCCJEA Affidavit (required for custody/parenting time)
• FOC 23: Verified Statement (cases with children or support)
• CC 320: Domestic Relations Financial Information (exchange within 28 days)
• DCH-0838: Record of Divorce (vital records)

Access forms through Michigan Legal Help or your county clerk's website.

MiFILE E-Filing System

Michigan's statewide e-filing system makes DIY divorce more accessible:

• MiFILE Portal – Create account and file online
• Self-represented parties may e-file in most counties
• Use case code DM (with children) or DO (without children)
• $25 e-filing system fee applies to all new cases

Filing Fees

Michigan filing fees are standardized by statute (MCL 600.2529):

• Without children: $175 ($150 base + $25 e-file fee)
• With children: $255 ($150 base + $25 e-file + $80 custody judgment fee)
• Motion fee: $20 per motion
• Certified copy: $10 + $1/page

If you cannot afford fees, you may request a fee waiver using form MC 20 (Request for Fee Waiver).

Need a Full Cost Breakdown?

Our planning tool itemizes every Michigan DIY divorce expense—$175/$255 filing fees, $25 MiFILE system fee, $20 motion fees, service of process, certified copies, and optional mediation—so you can budget before you file. Get your itemized cost breakdown free →

Expected Timeline

Michigan divorce timelines depend on case type:

• Joint petition (no children): 60-75 days
• Uncontested with children: 180+ days (6 months minimum)
• Contested: 7-18 months depending on mediation and trial

Remote hearings are common in Michigan courts, making it easier to attend proceedings without taking time off work.

Official Michigan Resources

• Michigan Legal Help – Family Law Forms
• MiFILE E-Filing Portal
• Michigan Courts – SCAO Forms
• MCL Chapter 552 – Divorce Statutes