Divorce

Divorce is one of the most emotional and uncertain situations a family can face. It’s a time when you’ll have to make many decisions – from living arrangements and finances to parenting in a new reality – while keeping in mind your own best interests and those of the people you love. And, you will be doing this in an unfamiliar legal landscape.

But you don’t have to do it alone.

At Berecz & Associates, PLC our family law and divorce attorneys are committed to helping you move through the divorce process with dignity and respect. We will equip you with knowledge about your options to help you make the best decisions for your future.

Three options

One of the biggest fears most people have about divorce is going through a costly, conflict-ridden courtroom battle. In actuality, statistics show in Michigan only 2% of divorces end in a trial. In 98% of all instances, spouses come to resolution before a trial.

So, what does this mean for you? It means you have options. Options we can help you understand so you can choose one that best honors your commitment to yourself and those you care most about.

• You decide your future, not the court or judge
• Solution not blame focused
• Parties work together in a spirit of respect and cooperation
• Up-front agreement is made to settle issues in a non-adversarial way, without going to court
• Agreements reached through a series of 4-way meetings between spouses and attorneys
• Open exchange of documents and information

• You decide your future, not the court or judge
• Spouses meet with a neutral mediator who facilitates discussion about issues
• Forms the agreement that becomes the basis for your Judgment of Divorce
• You can consult with an attorney during negotiations or after a tentative agreement is reached
• Benefits include: freedom to shape your own divorce, less stress, cost-efficient, minimization of court appearances

• Traditional method of divorce
• Depends on a third party (judge) to make decisions
• Can include written interrogations, subpoenas, and depositions of the spouses and other parties to gather information
• Mediation can be later be used if agreements aren’t being reached
• Settlement conference with the judge will be held if parties cannot come to an agreement
• If the case goes to trial, the judge issues the final ruling

Get started

Our family law and divorce attorneys can meet with you to discuss how each option relates to your individual situation. There is no “right” way. Only the way that best fits your needs. We represent people throughout West and Southwest Michigan. Contact us today.

In the Grand Rapids area call 616.466.4131
In the St. Joseph area call 269.428.3447
Email us at [email protected]
Complete the online form