How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Michigan? (2026)

A divorce in Michigan has two separate price tags: what you pay to prepare the documents, and what the court charges to file them. Here's the real 2026 breakdown so nothing catches you by surprise.

Document preparation

With SimplyDivorceOnline, preparing your complete uncontested divorce is one flat fee of $149, no hourly billing, no subscription. Hiring a Michigan attorney instead is where the well-known five-figure averages come from: a contested divorce with lawyers commonly runs $10,000–$30,000+.

Michigan court filing fee

Separate from preparation, Michigan's Circuit Court charges a filing fee to open your case: about $175–$250 (varies by county). It's paid directly to the court, not to us. Most Michigan courts waive it for filers who qualify based on income or public benefits, we show you how to request that.

What actually drives the cost up

The single biggest cost factor is conflict. Every issue you and your spouse can't settle yourselves, property, support, custody, is one a lawyer or judge has to resolve, and that's what turns a few hundred dollars into tens of thousands. Agreeing between yourselves is how you keep an Michigan divorce cheap.

The bottom line

For an amicable, uncontested Michigan divorce, your realistic all-in cost is the flat $149 document fee plus your court's filing fee, often under $600 total, versus a five-figure lawyer-driven divorce.

This guide is general information, not legal advice, and rules change, always confirm current requirements with your county court or a licensed attorney. When you start with us, your forms and checklist are tailored to your state and county automatically.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a divorce cost in Michigan in 2026?

Preparing an uncontested divorce in Michigan with SimplyDivorceOnline is a flat $149, plus your county court's filing fee (about $175–$250 (varies by county)). That's a fraction of hiring an attorney, which commonly runs $10,000+ for a contested case.

How long does a divorce take in Michigan?

Most people finish the paperwork in a weekend. After you file, Michigan generally requires at least 60 days (and six months when there are minor children), usually the biggest factor in your overall timeline.

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Michigan?

No. If you and your spouse agree on the terms, you can file an uncontested divorce in Michigan yourself using the correct court forms. A lawyer is mainly worth it if your case is contested or involves complex assets, a business, or a custody dispute.

Can I get divorced in Michigan if my spouse won't cooperate?

Yes. Michigan, like every state, allows a no-fault divorce, so your spouse cannot block it. If they don't respond after being properly served, the court can grant a default divorce.

Where do I file for divorce in Michigan?

You file with the Circuit Court in the county where you (or your spouse) live, using the Complaint for Divorce. Your county clerk processes the case; Michigan's official court website has current forms and fees.