Like many other states, Michigan law has options for West Michigan couples who may wish to remain married but otherwise live separate lives and have separate homes and finances. Many couples may be interested in this option, which Michigan officially calls separate...
Grand Rapids Family Law And Estate Planning Blog
Marriage heading for divorce? Here are five things you should do now
Unfortunately, not all marriages last forever. At some point in the relationship, a couple may no longer be compatible. If you think a divorce may be in your future in Michigan, there are some things you should do to prepare. Copy documents You should go through...
What are my options if I need to move?
After a divorce, a person in the West Michigan area may need to relocate for any number of reasons. Sometimes, a better economic opportunity may await them elsewhere, while in other cases, family concerns or a chance to improve the lives of the person’s children may...
Divorce issues don’t have to be solved in a heated court battle
Particularly for couples with children, experts and average people alike are realizing that often heated courtroom battles are not the best for anyone involved in a divorce. Many West Michigan parents may worry that contentious family law litigation and the fallout...
Tips for addressing best interests in a child custody dispute
A lot of Michigan residents worry about how their divorce will affect their relationship with their child. This is understandable given that a court order could significantly limit parenting time. If you’re in that situation now, then you should make sure that you’re...
What will happen to my house in my divorce?
In the current state of the housing market, there’s a strong chance that you’ve built up a lot of equity in your family home. You might have sentimental attachment to the residence, too, especially if you’ve raised a family there. But what happens to your home when...
A Belated Appreciation
In the last several months, I have been honored with several unexpected accolades. I don’t have much to say except that I am thankful and excited about the recognition Giordano Law has received and grateful for all of my wonderful clients who allow me to help them...
Grey Divorce: Change at a Later Age
Michele was recently quoted in an article about "grey divorce" in the April/May issue of West Michigan Woman magazine. You can read the article here. If you or someone you know is contemplating divorce later in life, there are some unique issues to consider. Contact...
Is Divorce Always A Negative?
I recently came across a blog post entitled "I'm 30, Divorced and Happy". The author of the post was nearing her 30th birthday and reflecting on the successes and adventures she experienced in her 20's. One of those sucesses was marriage...followed 18 months later...
Community Blog Series: CASA of Kent County
I feel very strongly about the idea of community – that personal growth comes from giving back to the world around you. I spend a lot of time serving on boards and committees in the area and while I am proud of what I am able to give to these organizations, what I...