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Navigating the process of obtaining a divorce or annulment record in Michigan can seem daunting, but understanding the necessary steps can simplify the experience. The Michigan Divorce or Annulment form is essential for anyone seeking to request a copy of these vital records. This form requires the applicant's name, address, and contact information, along with the specific details of the divorce or annulment, including the names of both parties and the county where the decree was granted. Applicants must also provide the date of the divorce or annulment, or at least the year if the exact date is unknown. The Michigan Vital Records office maintains records dating back to 1897, although some exceptions apply, such as missing records for Detroit during 1973 and 1974. To process the request, applicants must sign the form and submit the required fee, which covers the basic search and includes one certified copy. For those needing expedited service, additional fees apply, allowing for faster processing times. Understanding these details is crucial, as the turnaround time for requests can vary significantly based on the year of the divorce or annulment. Timely and accurate submission of this form is vital to ensure a smooth retrieval of the necessary records.
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MAIL OR COUNTER APPLICATION FOR A |
www.michigan.gov/mdch |
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MICHIGAN DIVORCE OR ANNULMENT RECORD
STATE FILE NUMBER (If Known)
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APPLICANT (PERSON REQUESTING RECORD) |
PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY AND LEGIBLY |
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Applicant=s Name: |
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ΚAPPLICANT=S SIGNATURE: Κ (Sign Here) _____________________________________________________________
Must be signed in order to process
Daytime Phone: ( |
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Home Phone: ( |
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REQUESTED DIVORCE OR ANNULMENT INFO
If the exact date of the divorce or annulment is unknown, please indicate which year you want us to search. If the record is not found in that year=s files, we will search the files for the year before and the year after. If you want additional years searched, please see the payment box for additional information.
DATE OF DIVORCE OR
ANNULMENT
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Month Day Year
NAME OF HUSBAND:
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Middle |
Last |
WIFE=S NAME AT TIME
OF DIVORCE OR
ANNULMENT:
First |
Middle |
Last |
COUNTY WHERE DIVORCE OR ANNULMENT WAS GRANTED:
REQUESTING A MICHIGAN DIVORCE OR ANNULMENT RECORD
The Michigan Vital Records office has records of divorces that occurred in Michigan and were filed with the state since 1897. Some records were not filed with the state. We have no divorce records for Detroit for 1973 and 1974.
Anyone is eligible to request a copy of a Michigan divorce or annulment record if the application is completed and signed and the required fee is paid.
PURPOSE FOR REQUESTING RECORD
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*EXPEDITED SEARCH - If you pay the expedited search fee (in addition to the regular search fee), a counter request will be processed in
*EXPEDITED SERVICE - Applies to standard
REGULAR SEARCH - If the divorce year is 1925 to the present, your request will be processed within 4 weeks of receipt in the vital records office. If the divorce year is prior to 1925, the processing time will be
PAYMENT MUST BE MADE IN U.S. FUNDS BY CHECK OR MONEY ORDER PAYABLE TO THE ASTATE OF MICHIGAN@
Fees are established by state statute. A search fee covers the cost of the basic search and includes either one copy of the record or an official statement that the record could not be located in the state files. Payment for additional copies will be refunded if the record cannot be located. A refund check would be mailed to you by the Department of Treasury, usually within
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* EXPEDITED SEARCH |
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* Additional Search When Exact Date is |
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Each additional year is $12.00 per year |
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WE CANNOT PROCESS YOUR REQUEST WITHOUT PAYMENT. IF MAILING, PLEASE REMEMBER TO INCLUDE CHECK OR MONEY ORDER.
IF REGULAR SEARCH MAIL TO: |
IF EXPEDITED SEARCH MAIL TO: |
VITAL RECORDS REQUESTS |
VITAL RECORDS RUSH |
PO Box 30721 |
PO Box 30721 |
Lansing MI 48909 |
Lansing MI 48909 |
QUESTIONS: (517)
Form Specifications
| Fact Name | Description |
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| Governing Laws | The form is governed by Michigan laws, specifically MCL 333.2882(1)(d), MCL 333.2883(2), and MCL 333.2891(1-4). |
| Eligibility | Anyone can request a copy of a Michigan divorce or annulment record as long as the application is completed, signed, and the fee is paid. |
| Record Availability | The Michigan Vital Records office has records of divorces filed with the state since 1897, although some records may be missing. |
| Missing Records | No divorce records exist for Detroit for the years 1973 and 1974. |
| Request Processing Time | Regular search requests for divorces from 1925 to present are processed within 4 weeks; earlier records may take longer. |
| Expedited Processing | For an expedited search, the request can be processed in 1-3 hours at the counter for records from 1925 to present. |
| Search Fees | A non-refundable search fee of $26.00 includes one certified copy or a statement if the record is not found. |
| Additional Copies | Each additional certified copy costs $12.00, and refunds are available if the record cannot be located. |
| Payment Methods | Payments must be made in U.S. funds by check or money order, payable to the "State of Michigan." |
| Mailing Addresses | Regular search requests should be mailed to the Vital Records Requests, while expedited searches go to Vital Records Rush, both at PO Box 30721, Lansing, MI 48909. |
Divorce Or Annulment Michigan: Usage Guidelines
Filling out the Divorce or Annulment form in Michigan is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to ensure that every detail is accurate. This form is your gateway to obtaining important records. After completing the form, you will need to submit it along with the required payment to the appropriate address, depending on whether you choose regular or expedited service.
- Gather Necessary Information: Before you start filling out the form, collect all relevant details, including the names of both parties, the date of the divorce or annulment, and the county where it was granted.
- Fill Out Applicant Information: In the designated section, clearly print your name, address, city, state, and zip code. Ensure that this information is accurate and legible.
- Sign the Application: Don’t forget to sign the application where indicated. Your signature is crucial for processing the request.
- Provide Contact Numbers: Include your daytime and home phone numbers. This helps the office reach you if there are any questions regarding your application.
- Specify Divorce or Annulment Date: If you know the exact date, fill it in. If not, indicate the year you want searched. Remember, they will check the year before and after if the record isn’t found.
- List Names: Write down the husband’s name and the wife’s name at the time of divorce or annulment. Make sure to include first, middle, and last names.
- Indicate County: Mention the county where the divorce or annulment was granted. This is vital for locating the correct record.
- State Your Purpose: In the section provided, briefly explain why you are requesting the record. This can be for personal reasons, legal matters, or any other purpose.
- Calculate Fees: Review the fee structure carefully. Include the search fee and any additional costs for extra copies or expedited service. Make sure to total the amount accurately.
- Prepare Payment: Write a check or money order payable to the “State of Michigan” for the total amount. Remember, payment must be made in U.S. funds.
- Mail Your Application: If you are using regular service, send your application to the Vital Records Requests address. For expedited service, use the Vital Records Rush address.
Once your application is submitted, be prepared to wait for the processing time, which varies depending on the service you chose. Regular requests may take up to four weeks, while expedited requests can be processed much faster. Ensure you keep a copy of your application for your records.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the purpose of the Divorce or Annulment Michigan form?
The Divorce or Annulment Michigan form is used to request a record of a divorce or annulment that occurred in Michigan. This form allows individuals to obtain certified copies of these records for various purposes, such as legal proceedings, personal records, or identification requirements.
Who can request a divorce or annulment record in Michigan?
Anyone can request a copy of a Michigan divorce or annulment record as long as they complete and sign the application form and pay the required fee. This means that you do not need to be a party involved in the divorce or annulment to make a request.
What information is required to complete the form?
To complete the form, you will need to provide your name, address, and contact information. Additionally, you must include details about the divorce or annulment, such as the names of both parties, the date of the divorce or annulment, and the county where it was granted.
How long does it take to process a request for a divorce or annulment record?
The processing time varies based on the year of the divorce. For divorces from 1925 to the present, requests are typically processed within 4 weeks for regular searches and within 2 weeks for expedited mail requests. For divorces prior to 1925, the processing time can take 1 to 3 months.
What are the fees associated with requesting a divorce or annulment record?
The search fee is $26.00, which includes one certified copy of the record or an official statement if the record cannot be found. If you need additional copies, there is a fee of $12.00 for each extra copy. An expedited search incurs an additional non-refundable fee of $10.00 on top of the regular search fee.
What should I do if I don’t know the exact date of the divorce or annulment?
If the exact date is unknown, you can indicate the year you want the search to cover. If the record is not found in that year, the office will search the files for the year before and the year after. You can also request additional years for a fee.
How should I submit my payment for the request?
Payment must be made in U.S. funds, either by check or money order, made payable to the "State of Michigan." Ensure that payment is included with your application, as requests cannot be processed without it.
What happens if the record cannot be located?
If the requested record cannot be found, you will receive an official statement indicating this. The search fee will be refunded for any additional copies requested, and a refund check will typically be mailed to you within 3 to 4 weeks.
Common mistakes
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Failing to print clearly and legibly. Illegible handwriting can lead to processing delays or errors.
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Not signing the application. The application must be signed to be processed.
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Providing an incorrect date for the divorce or annulment. Double-check the date to avoid complications.
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Omitting the county where the divorce or annulment was granted. This information is essential for locating the record.
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Not including the required payment. Your request cannot be processed without the appropriate fees.
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Requesting additional years without specifying them. Clearly indicate which years you want searched.
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Neglecting to include a contact phone number. This can hinder communication if there are questions about your application.
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Using a personal check instead of a money order. Ensure payment is made in U.S. funds as specified.
Documents used along the form
When navigating a divorce or annulment in Michigan, several important forms and documents may be required in addition to the main Divorce or Annulment form. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose and can help streamline the process. Below is a list of key documents often used alongside the Divorce or Annulment form.
- Summons: This document notifies the other party that a divorce action has been initiated. It provides essential information about the case and the requirements for responding.
- Complaint for Divorce: This form outlines the reasons for the divorce and details the requests made by the filing party, such as asset division and custody arrangements.
- Affidavit of Service: This document confirms that the other party has been properly served with divorce papers. It is crucial for ensuring that the court recognizes the case as valid.
- Marital Settlement Agreement: This agreement details how assets, debts, and child custody will be divided between the parties. It is often negotiated and signed before the divorce is finalized.
- Child Custody and Parenting Time Order: If children are involved, this order outlines custody arrangements and visitation schedules, ensuring that both parents understand their rights and responsibilities.
- Financial Affidavit: This document provides a comprehensive overview of each party's financial situation, including income, expenses, assets, and debts. It is essential for fair negotiations.
- Notice of Hearing: This document informs all parties of the date and time of court hearings related to the divorce. It is crucial for ensuring that everyone involved is aware of upcoming legal proceedings.
Understanding these documents can significantly impact the efficiency and outcome of your divorce or annulment process. Make sure to gather and complete them accurately to avoid delays. Seek guidance if needed, as each form plays a vital role in your case.
Similar forms
- Marriage Certificate Request: Similar to the Divorce or Annulment form, a marriage certificate request form is used to obtain a record of a marriage. Both documents require personal information and details about the event being requested.
- Birth Certificate Request: This form allows individuals to request a copy of a birth certificate. Like the Divorce or Annulment form, it requires specific information about the individual and the event, along with payment for processing.
- Death Certificate Request: A death certificate request form serves to obtain records of a person's death. It shares similarities with the Divorce or Annulment form in terms of required information and the payment process.
- Custody Agreement Form: This document outlines the custody arrangements for children post-divorce. It is similar to the Divorce or Annulment form as it addresses legal matters related to family and requires specific information about the parties involved.
- Separation Agreement: A separation agreement is a legal document that outlines the terms of a couple's separation. It is akin to the Divorce or Annulment form as it involves legal processes and requires detailed information about the individuals and their circumstances.
- Property Settlement Agreement: This document details the division of property and assets between spouses. Like the Divorce or Annulment form, it is a legal document that necessitates clear information about both parties and their assets.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Divorce or Annulment form in Michigan, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure your application is processed smoothly. Here are eight things you should and shouldn't do:
- Do print your information clearly and legibly.
- Do sign the application to avoid delays in processing.
- Do provide accurate dates for the divorce or annulment.
- Do include your contact information, including a daytime phone number.
- Don't leave any required fields blank.
- Don't forget to include the correct payment for the search fee.
- Don't request a search for years without specifying which years you want searched.
- Don't submit your application without double-checking for errors.
Following these guidelines will help ensure that your request for a divorce or annulment record is handled efficiently and effectively.
Misconceptions
- Misconception 1: The Divorce or Annulment form is only for individuals who are currently going through a divorce.
- Misconception 2: You need to know the exact date of the divorce or annulment to request a record.
- Misconception 3: Only the parties involved in the divorce can request the record.
- Misconception 4: There are no fees associated with requesting a divorce or annulment record.
- Misconception 5: The processing time for requests is the same regardless of the divorce year.
This is not true. The form can be requested by anyone seeking a record of a divorce or annulment that has already occurred, regardless of their current marital status.
While having the exact date is helpful, it is not necessary. If the date is unknown, the form allows you to indicate a year for the search, and the office will look for records from that year as well as the year before and after.
Anyone can request a copy of a Michigan divorce or annulment record as long as the application is completed, signed, and the required fee is paid. This includes family members or other interested parties.
There are fees that must be paid to process the request. The basic search fee covers the cost of the search and includes one certified copy or an official statement if the record cannot be found.
Processing times vary based on the year of the divorce. For divorces from 1925 to the present, requests are processed within a few weeks, while those prior to 1925 may take longer. Expedited options are also available for quicker processing.
Key takeaways
Ensure you fill out the Michigan Divorce or Annulment form clearly and legibly. This is crucial for processing your request without delays.
Include your signature on the application. A missing signature will result in a rejection of your request.
Specify the exact date of the divorce or annulment if known. If not, indicate the year you wish to search.
Be aware that the Michigan Vital Records office holds records dating back to 1897, but some records may be missing, particularly for Detroit in 1973 and 1974.
Anyone can request a copy of a divorce or annulment record, provided they complete the application and pay the required fee.
Understand the processing times: regular requests for records from 1925 onward take about 4 weeks, while expedited requests can be processed in as little as 1-3 hours.
Payment must be made in U.S. funds via check or money order, made out to the "State of Michigan." Ensure you include the payment with your application.
If your request cannot locate the record, you will receive a refund for additional copies, but the initial search fee is non-refundable.
For additional searches beyond the standard three years, be prepared to pay extra fees. Specify any additional years you wish to search.