30+ years of trial experience in criminal defense, expungements, OWI/DUI, family law, and civil litigation—serving Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Personalized strategy. Proven results. Se habla español.
- 660 Cascade West Pkwy SE, Ste 70 Grand Rapids, MI 49546
- (616) 676-8770
- brucealanblock.com
Meet Attorney Bruce Alan Block
With over 30 years of courtroom experience, Bruce Alan Block has built a reputation for strong advocacy and proven results across West Michigan. He takes a hands-on approach to every case, offering clients personal attention and reliable guidance.
Grand Rapids Divorce Lawyer
When your marriage is ending, you need a Grand Rapids divorce lawyer who understands both the legal process and the stress that comes with it. Divorce touches nearly every part of life—children, finances, housing, and future plans. At Bruce Alan Block, P.L.C., we make the process clear and manageable while protecting what matters most to you.
Attorney Bruce Alan Block has more than 30 years of experience in Michigan divorce and family law. He helps clients throughout Grand Rapids and Kent County pursue fair outcomes on parenting time, custody-related concerns, support issues, and property division—always with practical guidance and strong advocacy when needed.
Divorce & Family Law Representation in Grand Rapids
No two families are the same—your strategy shouldn’t be either. Attorney Block listens first, then tailors a plan based on your goals, your timeline, and what’s at stake. He personally manages your case from initial consultation through final judgment.
- Divorce with or without minor children
- Parenting time and custody-related disputes
- Child support and spousal support (alimony)
- Property division and protection of marital assets
- Post-judgment modifications and enforcement
Whether you expect a straightforward settlement or anticipate disputes, involving an experienced Grand Rapids divorce lawyer early can reduce risk and help you make informed decisions.
Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce
Some divorces can be resolved through agreement on key terms like parenting schedules, support, and property division. Others involve disputes that require formal negotiation, court motions, or a hearing. The right approach depends on the facts—assets, income, communication between spouses, and any safety or stability concerns.
Our focus is to move your case forward efficiently while protecting your rights and keeping your long-term stability in view.
Michigan Divorce Process: What to Expect
Every case is unique, but most Michigan divorces follow these fundamentals:
- Waiting periods: At least 60 days without minor children; generally 6 months with minor children.
- Residency: One spouse must have lived in Michigan for 180 days and in the filing county for at least 10 days before filing.
- Negotiation & mediation: Courts often encourage settlement through negotiation or mediation. If settlement fails, a judge decides remaining issues after a hearing or trial.
Attorney Block prepares you for each step—filings, hearings, disclosures—and builds the record you need on parenting, support, and property questions.
Temporary Orders and Early Case Decisions
In many divorces, the most important decisions happen early. Temporary orders can address parenting time, support, use of the marital home, and day-to-day financial responsibilities while the divorce is pending. Getting guidance from a Grand Rapids divorce lawyer at the start can help you avoid preventable mistakes and protect your position from day one.
Protecting Your Property, Finances, and Future
Divorce is about more than ending a marriage—it’s about starting the next stage on solid footing. Careful planning helps protect assets and reduce avoidable conflict.
- Identifying marital vs. separate property
- Valuing homes, businesses, and retirement accounts
- Creating practical parenting arrangements when children are involved
- Evaluating support obligations under Michigan guidelines
Because these outcomes can be difficult to change later, it’s critical to get them right the first time.
Why Experience Matters
Online forms can make divorce look simple. In reality, small mistakes in a judgment, settlement terms, or parenting plan can create expensive problems later. An experienced Grand Rapids divorce lawyer helps you avoid pitfalls, protect your rights, and work toward a fair resolution from the start.
Attorney Block also draws on broader legal experience when family-law issues overlap with other areas, including civil litigation and criminal defense.
Related Practice Areas
Some situations involve overlapping legal concerns. You may find these pages helpful:
Start Moving Forward
If you’re considering divorce—or have already been served—you don’t have to navigate the process alone. Early legal advice brings clarity and prevents missteps.
Request a confidential consultation by contacting our office online or call (616) 676-8770 to speak with a Grand Rapids divorce lawyer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Michigan?
Without minor children, the minimum waiting period is 60 days. With minor children, plan on at least six months. Complexity, disclosure issues, and court scheduling can extend the timeline.
Do I have to go to court for my divorce?
Many divorces resolve through negotiation or mediation rather than trial, but most cases involve at least one court appearance. Your lawyer will prepare you for any hearings and help you understand what to expect.
How is property divided in a Michigan divorce?
Michigan uses equitable distribution. Marital property is divided fairly—though not always equally—based on factors like the length of the marriage, contributions, and overall financial circumstances.
How are custody and parenting time decided?
Parenting time and custody decisions are based on the child’s best interests. Courts consider factors like stability, each parent’s ability to meet needs, and the child’s established routine.
Can support or parenting terms be changed after divorce?
In some situations, yes. If circumstances change significantly, you may be able to seek a post-judgment modification. Eligibility depends on the facts and the terms in the final judgment.
Is mediation required?
Many Michigan courts strongly encourage mediation, especially when parenting time is disputed. Mediation can reduce conflict and give families more control over outcomes.