Legal Question in Family Law in Michigan

been seperated from wife for 3 years no idea where she is.. how do i find out if i am still married or have to file myself ?


Asked on 11/05/10, 7:55 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Audra Arndt Audra A. Arndt & Associates, PLLC

If you never received any paperwork, then you're likely still married. Do you have any idea if she's still in Michigan, or is she possibly in another state? I would suggest filing for divorce yourself, in the county in which you reside. However, you will have to make reasonable attempts to locate her in order to effectuate service of process. If you cannot serve her via the normal methods, i.e., personal service, certified mail, there are grounds for obtaining permission to serve a person via "alternate service" such as by mailing and posting at her last known address, publishing it in the newspaper, posting it at the county courthouse, etc - the requirements are up to the Judge. Do some address/location searches prior to filing your case so you don't run out of time, as your Summons is only valid for 91 days (i.e., you must serve her within 91 days of filing your Complaint, or you will need a second summons issued).

If you need to retain a divorce lawyer, please contact me. Thanks.

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Answered on 11/15/10, 5:06 pm


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