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Can extreme jealousy be a grounds for filing for divorce in Michigan?

Can extreme jealousy be a grounds for filing for divorce in Michigan?

Full question:

My husband has been acting weird for some time now and it has been disturbing me. He stakes out near my office, frequently calls me at work and checks on my social media accounts every half an hour. Lately, he has started accusing me of cheating on him with my boss. I have had it with him. Can I get a divorce on these grounds from a Michigan court?

Category: Divorce
Subcategory: Grounds
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Michigan

Answer:

Michigan is a no-fault state. The only ground for divorce in Michigan is that there has been a "breakdown of the marriage relationship to the extent that the objects of matrimony have been destroyed and there remains no reasonable likelihood that the marriage can be preserved." Section 6 of the MCLS § 552 is the provision that enumerates this aspect. It states the following:
MCLS § 552
“Sec. 6.
(1) A complaint for divorce may be filed in the circuit court upon the allegation that there has been a breakdown of the marriage relationship to the extent that the objects of matrimony have been destroyed and there remains no reasonable likelihood that the marriage can be preserved. In the complaint the plaintiff shall make no other explanation of the grounds for divorce than by the use of the statutory language.
(2) The defendant, by answer, may either admit the grounds for divorce alleged or deny them without further explanation. An admission by the defendant of the grounds for divorce may be considered by the court but is not binding on the court's determination.
(3) The court shall enter a judgment dissolving the bonds of matrimony if evidence is presented in open court that there has been a breakdown in the marriage relationship to the extent that the objects of matrimony have been destroyed and there remains no reasonable likelihood that the marriage can be preserved.”
The court may accept any of the following grounds as proof of the “'irretrievable breakdown”:

Adultery
Unreasonable behavior or extreme cruelty
Desertion
Separation without any possibility of reconciliation

Jealousy and excessively restrictive behavior can be termed as unreasonable behavior or extreme cruelty which might lead to clashes between spouses causing a complete breakdown of the marriage. The behavior beyond a certain limit takes a toll on the relationship and often becomes an ordeal as it affects the party at the receiving end emotionally and physically especially in cases where they are subjected to false and repeated accusation of infidelity. If it can be proven that such jealous and excessively restrictive behavior has caused the marriage to fail, the courts may grant a divorce in Michigan.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What are the symptoms of the walkaway husband syndrome?

Walkaway husband syndrome refers to a situation where a husband emotionally withdraws from the marriage, often leading to feelings of abandonment for the wife. Symptoms may include lack of communication, avoidance of intimacy, and a general disinterest in the relationship. If a spouse feels neglected or unvalued, it can contribute to marital breakdown. Recognizing these signs early can help address underlying issues before they escalate.

How to deal with a partner who is always miserable?

Dealing with a partner who is consistently unhappy can be challenging. Communication is key; try to discuss their feelings openly and encourage them to seek professional help if needed. Setting boundaries is also important to protect your own emotional well-being. If their misery affects your relationship significantly, consider seeking counseling together to work through these issues.

Why do I feel so unhappy with my husband?

Feeling unhappy in a marriage can stem from various factors, including lack of communication, unresolved conflicts, or emotional neglect. If your husband's behavior, such as jealousy or controlling actions, is causing distress, it may contribute to your unhappiness. Reflecting on your feelings and discussing them with your husband or a counselor can help identify the root causes and potential solutions.

How to live with a miserable spouse?

Living with a miserable spouse can be difficult. It's important to maintain open lines of communication and encourage them to express their feelings. Support them in seeking professional help if necessary. However, ensure you also take care of your own mental health by setting boundaries and finding support outside the relationship, such as friends or therapy.

What is walkaway husband syndrome?

Walkaway husband syndrome describes a situation where a husband emotionally detaches from the marriage, often leading to a sense of abandonment for the wife. This detachment can manifest as lack of communication, avoidance of intimacy, and disinterest in resolving marital issues. Understanding this syndrome can help couples address the underlying problems before they lead to divorce.

What are the symptoms of miserable husband syndrome?

Miserable husband syndrome may include signs such as irritability, withdrawal from family activities, lack of communication, and general discontent with life. A husband exhibiting these symptoms may feel unfulfilled or unhappy in the marriage. Addressing these feelings through open dialogue or counseling can help improve the relationship and overall well-being.