For someone who’s going through a divorce for the first time, the entire process might feel understandably unfamiliar. If you are a Grand Rapids resident, then the best person to seek advice from would be a highly-revered Grand Rapids attorney.
Being a leading hub for top divorce lawyers in Grand Rapids, MI, here at the offices of Sean Patrick Cox, we believe ourselves to be the best people to squash some common myths about divorce.

So, allow us to address 10 divorce myths that you shouldn’t concern yourself with.

1. A majority of divorces end up in court

In Michigan, you are required to file your divorce papers with the court. This doesn’t mean that your case will go to trial. If all parties are able to agree on all key issues, then it can be settled out of court. Our divorce attorney in Grand Rapids, MI has spearheaded many divorces that get resolved without a trial.

2. Mothers always get child custody

Contrary to popular belief, not all mothers are awarded child custody. The decision regarding child custody is mostly made keeping the child’s best interests in mind. If you are still worried, then we suggest you contact us at Sean Patrick Cox to get legal assistance from the best divorce lawyers for men in Michigan.

3. Visitation rights can be denied if an ex isn’t paying child support

If you are not receiving the child support amount that you are rightfully owed, then there are legal ways to address this issue. Because of this, you cannot deny your ex his/her visitation rights.

4. Infidelity means losing everything

Cheating can definitely lead to divorce. However, it doesn’t play a big role in determining whether you lose your assets or custody of your child in the divorce.

5. A Judge or Spouse can deny the divorce

When you file for divorce, you request the judge grant it. This does not in any way mean that a judge can deny the divorce. If you wish for a divorce, there is very little in the way that can keep you from getting it.

6. One can refuse to pay child support

The court of Michigan orders child support payment after carefully considering factors like parents’ income, childcare expenses, health insurance, etc. Parents cannot bargain their way out of this obligation once mandated by the court.

7. Children can decide who to stay with

A judge may take a child’s preference into consideration; however, a court isn’t inclined to adhere to their choice and will instead make a decision based on what it believes is best for the child.

8. Divorce is always contentious

Our divorce attorney in Grand Rapids, MI, has handled many divorce proceedings that have been resolved amicably. Some spouses remain friends even after separation. Needless to say, not all divorces end in battles.

9. Equitable division means equal distribution

Property division in Michigan is done on the principle of ‘equitable distribution’. This does not mean an equal division of assets; the judge will consider multiple factors to decide who gets what.

10. Women always get spousal support

This is a myth based on old traditions that no longer apply today. There are women who earn more than men. A judge today is more likely to take a decision regarding spousal support based on economic circumstances regardless of gender.
To get some clarity on the matter, we suggest you get in touch with the best Grand Rapids divorce attorney by reaching out to the offices of Sean Patrick Cox. There is a reason why our name pops up first when someone searches for ‘the best divorce attorney near me’ online.

Find out why that’s the case by contacting us today.

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Sean Patrick Cox is a lawyer. Sean practices in two main areas, family law, and elder law. he has represented clients in complex divorce cases since 1994.