Do You Need a Prenup in Michigan? What Couples Should Consider

April 21, 2025

Do You Need a Prenup in Michigan? What Couples Should Consider


If you’re engaged or planning to get married soon, you’re probably thinking about the venue, the guest list, and maybe even the honeymoon. What you’re probably not thinking about is a prenuptial agreement. And honestly, that’s completely understandable. Talking about a prenup can feel awkward—it’s not exactly romantic, and it might even sound like you’re planning for the marriage to fail before it begins. But here’s the truth: having a prenup doesn’t mean you’re expecting things to go wrong. It just means you’re being thoughtful and realistic about protecting yourselves and your future, especially when it comes to finances and property.


In Michigan, prenuptial agreements—often just called prenups—are legal contracts entered into before marriage that outline how things like assets, debts, and property will be handled in the event of divorce or death. Think of it like insurance. You hope you’ll never need it, but it’s incredibly helpful to have if life takes an unexpected turn. It allows both partners to go into marriage with transparency and a shared understanding of how financial matters will be handled if the relationship ends.


So, do you actually need a prenup? The answer depends on your situation. If either of you owns a home, runs a business, has significant savings or investments, or is entering the marriage with debt—those are good reasons to consider one. A prenup can also be especially helpful in second marriages, particularly when children from a previous relationship are involved. It can outline what’s considered separate property, how inheritances will be handled, and even what financial support, if any, will be provided in case of a divorce.


But a prenup doesn’t have to only protect the wealthier partner. In many cases, it can benefit both people by making sure that neither person is taken by surprise if things change down the road. It gives both partners the opportunity to make decisions when the relationship is strong, rather than waiting until emotions are high or communication is strained.


Now let’s talk about what a prenup can and can’t do in Michigan. Generally, a prenup can address how property will be divided, what counts as marital versus separate property, how debts will be handled, and whether either party will receive spousal support (also known as alimony). You can also use a prenup to clarify expectations for things like who keeps certain items, how you’ll handle large purchases, or how future inheritances will be treated.


What a prenup can’t do is dictate child custody or child support. Those issues are always decided by the court based on the best interest of the child at the time of separation or divorce. So even if your prenup says one person will have full custody or that no child support will be paid, that portion won’t be legally enforceable.


For a prenuptial agreement to be valid in Michigan, there are a few key rules that must be followed. First, the agreement must be in writing and signed voluntarily by both parties. There should be full financial disclosure from both sides—meaning you each need to be honest about what you own and what you owe. It also helps if each person has their own attorney review the document, even if it’s amicable. That way, it’s harder for one person to later claim they didn’t understand what they were signing.


Timing matters, too. If one person presents the prenup just days before the wedding and pressures the other to sign, that could raise red flags. Ideally, this should be something you talk about well in advance, when there’s no time crunch or emotional pressure. The more thoughtful and transparent the process, the stronger your agreement will be if it’s ever needed.


People sometimes assume that if they don’t have a prenup, everything will just be split 50/50. That’s not always how it works. Michigan is an equitable distribution state, not a community property state. That means a judge won’t necessarily divide everything equally, but rather in a way that’s considered fair based on the circumstances. That might mean a 60/40 or even 70/30 split depending on income, contributions, length of the marriage, and other factors. If you want more control over how your property would be handled, a prenup is one way to lock in that clarity before the state steps in to decide for you.


It’s also worth pointing out that prenups aren’t set in stone forever. You can revise or even cancel the agreement at any time during the marriage, as long as both parties agree. Some couples choose to revisit their prenup after major life events, like starting a business, having kids, or buying property together. Others create a postnuptial agreement after they’re married, which works in a similar way.


We get it—no one likes to think about the possibility of divorce when they’re planning a wedding. But the reality is, financial disagreements are one of the top reasons marriages fall apart. Having honest conversations now about finances, responsibilities, and expectations can actually strengthen your relationship. A prenup isn’t a signal of mistrust—it’s a sign of maturity, communication, and planning.


At Coppins Law Group, we’ve helped many couples draft fair, legally sound prenuptial agreements that reflect their goals and values. Whether you’re protecting your business, clarifying debt obligations, or just want peace of mind, we can walk you through the process in a way that’s clear, respectful, and focused on your future.


If you’re curious whether a prenup makes sense for your relationship, or you just want to understand your options better, reach out to schedule a consultation. We’re here to answer your questions, help you avoid legal pitfalls, and support your goals—before the wedding day and long after.


Just a reminder: this article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Everyone’s situation is different. To understand how a prenuptial agreement could apply to you, it's best to speak directly with an experienced attorney.

Will a DUI in Macomb County Affect My License, Job, or Insurance?

June 29, 2025
If you’ve recently been charged with a DUI or OWI in Macomb County or the surrounding Southeast Michigan area, you probably have a lot of questions. One of the first things many people ask is how the charge could affect their driver’s license, their job, or their insurance. Facing an OWI charge is stressful, especially if this is your first time dealing with the legal system. This post walks through some of the possible outcomes and important things to know based on how these cases are typically handled in the local courts. First, a Quick Look at the Terms In Michigan, the term OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) is used more often than DUI, though people tend to use them interchangeably. You may also hear the term OUID (Operating Under the Influence of Drugs), which covers driving while impaired by substances other than alcohol. Whether it’s alcohol, marijuana, or a controlled substance, OWI charges are taken seriously in Macomb County, and local courts move quickly through the process. What Can Happen to Your Driver’s License? License penalties are common after an OWI charge, even before your case is finalized. For example: Implied Consent Violations : If you refuse to take a chemical test after arrest, the Michigan Secretary of State may automatically suspend your license for one year. This is separate from your criminal case. First OWI Conviction : This can lead to up to a 6-month suspension. In some cases, you may be eligible for a restricted license after 30 days. High BAC (.17 or higher) : This can trigger longer suspensions and require the installation of an ignition interlock device if a restricted license is granted. The local courts in Mt. Clemens often follow these guidelines closely, and the Secretary of State processes license penalties independently of the judge’s ruling. It’s important to be aware of both parts of the system. Can a DUI Affect Your Job? It depends on the type of work you do. For some people, an OWI has little or no impact on employment. For others, it can be more serious. Jobs that involve: Driving a company vehicle Holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL) Security clearances State licenses or professional certifications …may be affected by a DUI conviction. Employers in these situations often require notification of criminal charges or conduct background checks as part of ongoing employment. This is especially true in regulated fields like healthcare, education, law enforcement, or government contracting. If your job is unrelated to driving or licensing, your employer might not take any action at all. However, if you have a company policy that requires reporting arrests or convictions, it’s important to be proactive and check what’s required. What About Your Insurance? In most cases, your auto insurance rates will go up after a DUI conviction. Some insurance companies may even choose not to renew your policy. This isn’t something that happens immediately, but once the conviction hits your driving record, insurers may re-evaluate your policy at renewal time. Drivers with an OWI on their record may need to obtain SR-22 insurance , which is a special certification that proves you’re carrying the required amount of liability coverage. Michigan doesn’t require SR-22 in every OWI case, but your insurance provider may. Will This Stay on Your Record? Michigan has recently made changes to its expungement laws. Some first-time OWI offenses may now be eligible for expungement, but only under specific conditions and after a waiting period. Expungement is not automatic and requires a formal process through the court. If you’re thinking about long-term consequences, especially for your driving and criminal record, it’s worth speaking with an attorney to see what your options are. How Macomb County Courts Typically Handle OWI Cases In Macomb County, OWI cases usually start in district court. For residents in Mt. Clemens, that typically means the 41-B District Court. Judges in this court have handled hundreds of these cases, and they are familiar with all the nuances involved. The court process often includes: An arraignment Pre-trial conferences Review of police reports, body cam footage, and breathalyzer or blood test results Possible plea negotiations A sentencing hearing if there is a conviction Every case is different. Some people are eligible for sobriety court programs or other alternatives, depending on the facts of the case and their criminal history. Steps to Take After Being Charged If you’ve been charged with OWI in or around Macomb County: Don’t delay. Court dates often come up quickly. Don’t try to navigate it alone. The consequences of a conviction can follow you for years. Write down everything you remember from the traffic stop and arrest while it’s fresh in your mind. Gather any documents you’ve received and keep them in one place. You don’t have to go through this process without support. Local attorneys who work in the district courts every week understand what to expect and how to guide you through the steps. Need Help Navigating an OWI Charge in Mt. Clemens? Our team at Coppins Law Group has worked with many individuals facing DUI or OWI charges in the Macomb County area. We understand the pressure this puts on your life, and we’re here to help you understand your rights and options at every step. Disclaimer : This blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different, and results can vary depending on the facts and circumstances. For legal guidance specific to your situation, please contact Coppins Law Group directly.

How Child Custody Is Determined in Divorce Cases Around Mt. Clemens and Macomb County

June 18, 2025
If you’re going through a separation or divorce and you have children, it’s likely that child custody is one of your biggest concerns. In the Mt. Clemens and greater Macomb County area, custody decisions are handled by the local family court system. Understanding how judges in this region typically approach custody can help you better prepare for the process ahead. Every case is unique, but here’s what you should know if you're facing a custody matter in this part of Southeast Michigan. What Judges in Macomb County Family Court Look For Courts in Macomb County, just like others in the region, are guided by what’s called the best interest of the child . Judges look at a variety of factors to decide what kind of custody arrangement will support the child’s physical, emotional, and educational well-being. Some of the specific things they might consider include: The emotional ties between the child and each parent Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home The child’s age and needs Any history of abuse or neglect The mental and physical health of all parties involved The willingness of each parent to encourage a relationship between the child and the other parent These are just a few examples. Judges have broad discretion and will look closely at the full picture before making a decision. Types of Custody That May Be Awarded Local courts may award joint custody or sole custody , and they’ll often divide custody into two categories: Legal Custody : This determines who has the authority to make decisions about schooling, medical care, and other major life issues. It’s common for parents to share legal custody unless the court sees a specific reason not to. Physical Custody : This refers to where the child lives most of the time. Some families have a shared parenting time schedule, while others may have one parent with primary custody and the other with scheduled visitation. In Macomb County, parenting time orders are generally detailed. Judges want clear schedules that outline school days, weekends, holidays, and even pick-up and drop-off times to help avoid conflict. What You Should Bring to a Custody Hearing If you’re preparing for a custody hearing in Mt. Clemens or a nearby court, there are a few things that can help your case: A detailed parenting time proposal that shows you’ve thought about the child’s needs Proof of a stable home environment Information about your work schedule and availability Any documentation related to the child’s school or healthcare needs If you have concerns about the other parent, especially regarding safety, substance use, or unstable living conditions, bring documentation to support those concerns. Local judges expect facts and evidence, not just opinions. What to Avoid During the Process While emotions can run high, it’s important to stay focused on the child’s well-being. Avoid speaking negatively about the other parent in front of your children or online, and follow any temporary court orders to the letter. Also, be careful about informal agreements that aren’t court-approved. Even if both parents agree on something, it won’t be legally binding unless it’s documented and approved by the court. Why Local Representation Matters Every county handles custody cases a little differently. Local knowledge can be a major advantage. Attorneys who regularly appear before Macomb County family court judges understand how to present a case effectively, what kind of evidence judges expect, and how to navigate the system without unnecessary delays. At Coppins Law Group, we represent clients in Mt. Clemens and the surrounding areas every day. We’re familiar with the expectations of the local courts, and we focus on helping clients feel informed and supported through the process. If Custody Agreements Break Down If there’s already a custody agreement in place but one parent isn’t following it, you may need to file a motion for enforcement or ask the court to modify the order. This happens more often than many people expect, especially as life changes — jobs shift, children get older, and new partners or moves come into play. The family court will always return to the best interest of the child when reviewing modification requests, but they also look at how well each parent has honored the current agreement. Next Steps if You’re Facing a Custody Dispute in Macomb County If you’re dealing with child custody in or around Mt. Clemens, make sure you know your rights and have the support you need. Custody matters are deeply personal, and you shouldn’t have to navigate them alone. Whether you’re just beginning a divorce, responding to a custody motion, or thinking about modifying an existing arrangement, our office is available to discuss your situation and what steps make the most sense for your family. Disclaimer : This blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Custody outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case, and results can vary. For personalized legal guidance, contact Coppins Law Group directly to schedule a consultation.