Michigan Legal Costs & Filing Information
Verified filing fees, courts and requirements for common legal processes in Michigan. Every figure links to the official source it came from, with the date it was last checked.
Divorce in Michigan
- Filing fee:
- $175 without children / $255 with children
- Waiting period:
- 60 days — 6 months with minor children
- Residency requirement:
- 180 days in Michigan + 10 days in the county
- Where to file:
- Circuit Court — Family Division
Verified 2026-08-24
Small Claims in Michigan
- Claim limit:
- $7,000
- Filing fee:
- $30–$70
- Attorneys:
- Not allowed in the small claims division
- Court:
- District Court — Small Claims Division
Verified 2026-08-24
Probate in Michigan
- Probate filing fee:
- $150 statewide (+$25 e-filing)
- Small-estate threshold:
- $53,000 (2026)
- Small-estate petition fee:
- $25
- Where filed:
- Probate Court (each county)
Verified 2026-08-24
Name Change in Michigan
- Filing fee:
- $175 statewide
- Publication:
- Only if a hearing is set — and waivable for good cause
- Fingerprints:
- Not required (eliminated by PA 229)
- Court:
- Circuit Court — Family Division
Verified 2026-08-24
Bankruptcy in Michigan
- Chapter 7 filing fee:
- $338
- Chapter 13 filing fee:
- $313
- Federal districts in Michigan:
- 2
- Fee waiver (Ch. 7 only):
- Income < 150% of poverty line
Verified 2026-08-24
Michigan official resources
- Michigan Courts — the state court system
- Michigan Legal Help — official self-help resources and forms
LawLintel provides general legal information, not legal advice. Laws, rules, procedures and fees change and can depend on your specific facts and county. Verify important information with the applicable court or a qualified attorney before acting.