Family Law
Family law decisions are made at the worst possible time, under pressure, about the things that matter most. The process itself should not add to that.
Zamzam Law represents people in divorce, custody, support and related matters across Michigan. The aim is to give you a clear view of where you stand, what the realistic outcomes are, and what each route will cost in money and in time, so the decisions you make are informed rather than reactive.
Michigan is a no fault state. Neither spouse has to prove wrongdoing and one spouse cannot block a divorce by refusing to agree. What takes the time is everything attached: how property and debt are divided, whether support is paid, and the arrangements for children. Property is divided equitably, which means fairly rather than automatically in half. Child support follows a statewide formula. Spousal support does not and is discretionary. Custody is decided on the best interests of the child, with real weight given to the arrangements already in place.
Most cases settle. That is not a reason to be unprepared, because a case that is properly prepared settles on better terms. It is a reason to be careful about which fights are worth having, since litigation in family matters costs more than money and the people involved usually have to keep dealing with each other for years.
Where a matter also involves property, a business or a construction interest, that overlaps directly with the firm's other practice areas. A judgment that awards a house without addressing title, the mortgage and the tax treatment is a problem waiting to surface, and it surfaces often.
If there is any concern for your safety or a child's safety, say so at the outset. That changes what is done first.
Matters handled
If your situation appears below, it is work the firm does. If it is close but not listed, it is still worth the call.
How a matter runs
Every file follows the same four steps. You will know where yours stands at each one.
- Conflicts and intakeYour situation, the children, the finances, and anything already filed or scheduled. Conflicts are checked before anything confidential is discussed.
- Position and prioritiesWhat the realistic range of outcomes is, and which issues genuinely matter to you as against which are worth conceding.
- Disclosure and negotiationFinancial information exchanged so decisions rest on real figures. Most issues resolve here or at mediation.
- Agreement or hearingTerms documented in enough detail that they can actually be implemented, or the remaining issues decided by the court.
Common questions
My spouse will not agree to a divorce. Can they stop it?
No. Michigan does not require both people to consent. A spouse who refuses to participate can make the process slower and more expensive, but cannot prevent it.
Should I move out of the house?
Speak to someone before you do. Leaving can affect the arrangements for the children and the use of the home while the case is pending, and interim arrangements frequently shape the final outcome. If there is any safety concern, that takes priority and there are protective options.
How long does it take?
There is a statutory minimum before a judgment can enter, and it is longer where there are minor children. An agreed case can conclude near that minimum. A contested case runs considerably longer, driven mostly by how much is genuinely in dispute.
What does it cost?
[FEE STRUCTURE]. Cost is driven overwhelmingly by how much is contested. Scope and fees are agreed in writing at the outset.
What should I bring to the first conversation?
Recent tax returns, pay information for both parties, a list of assets and debts, any existing court order, and anything already filed or served. A short written timeline helps more than most people expect.
Knowing where you stand is the first thing that helps.
[PHONE]If there is a hearing already scheduled, or a concern for anyone's safety, call rather than using the form.