Skilled Detroit Property Division Attorney

Last updated on April 8, 2026

During a divorce in Michigan, marital assets and debts must be split in a way that is considered fair, not necessarily equal. This concept, called equitable distribution, includes anything acquired during the marriage, from homes and retirement accounts to credit card debt and business interests.

For over 30 years, Lisa D. Stern has helped individuals throughout Detroit handle the complex process of dividing marital property in divorce. As a seasoned divorce lawyer, Lisa has a strong commitment to helping clients secure what is rightfully theirs under Michigan divorce law.

How Is Property Divided In A Michigan Divorce?

Under Michigan divorce law, courts follow the principle of equitable distribution. This means that the court considers several factors to divide marital assets fairly. These factors may include:

• Length of the marriage
• Contributions to the household (financial or otherwise, like caring for the home while the other parent worked)
• Earning potential and health of each spouse
• Age and needs of each party

While personal property acquired before the marriage usually stays with the original owner, any assets or debts gained during the marriage are subject to division.

What Is The Process For Settling Property Division In A Michigan Divorce?

Property division begins once a divorce is filed. From there, spouses may negotiate directly or through their lawyers or the matter may go to court. Property that may be subject to division includes:

• Real estate such as family homes, condos or rental properties
• Vehicles and shared bank accounts
• Investment and retirement accounts
• Business assets

If the parties cannot agree or the court determines selling is the best option, certain properties, like a home or rental unit, may need to be sold and the proceeds divided.

Frequently Asked Questions On Detroit Property Division

Lisa D. Stern is a Detroit-area divorce attorney who can help ensure your rights are protected throughout the property division process. Below are answers to questions she frequently receives from clients.

How is marital property and separate property determined in a Michigan divorce?

In Michigan, marital property encompasses assets and debts acquired during the marriage. In contrast, separate property consists of what either spouse owned before the marriage or received individually, such as gifts or inheritances.

However, the distinction is not always clear-cut. If separate assets become mixed with marital ones, like using joint funds to pay for a home one spouse owned before marriage, they may be considered marital property.

Courts examine several factors when classifying property, including:

• When and how the asset was acquired
• Whether both spouses contributed financially or through effort
• If marital funds were used to maintain or improve the asset

Having legal guidance can make it easier to present accurate financial information and protect your interests.

In which ways can Michigan divorce courts assess the value and divide business assets?

When a business is part of a divorce, courts must determine its fair value before dividing it. Judges may look at business records, profits, assets and debts.

Common methods used include:

• Income approach: Evaluating profits and future earning potential
• Asset approach: Reviewing the total value of physical and intangible assets
• Market approach: Comparing to similar businesses sold in the area

Business valuation is one of the most contested issues in high-asset divorces. An experienced Detroit property division lawyer can help ensure your financial stake is accurately represented.

Could an inherited family property be rolled into the division of marital property?

Inherited property, such as family land, farms or homes, is usually treated as separate property. However, if it has been commingled, like when both spouses invest in maintaining or improving it, it could be included in the marital estate.

Because these cases often depend on documentation and how the property was managed, having legal support can help protect your inherited assets during a divorce.

Your Financial Future Deserves A Strong Legal Ally

Those seeking a fair divorce settlement in Michigan should contact Lisa D. Stern, a trusted Detroit property division lawyer. Lisa’s decades of experience and deep understanding of Michigan divorce law make her the legal partner you need.

Call 248-973-7842 today to schedule a consultation. Virtual consultations are also available.

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