A divorce decree is a legal document signed by the judge that officially terminates the marriage. The divorce decree typically includes the judge’s ruling on all matters related to the marriage and any minor children—including division of marital or community property, payment of marital or community debts, spousal support, child custody, child visitation, child support, any obligation to provide health insurance for minor children, and the payment of extracurricular expenses for minor children.

These determinations or rulings set forth in the divorce decree become legally enforceable obligations when the judge signs the divorce decree—and may be enforced by further legal action in the court if one or both of the former spouses fail to comply with the terms of the divorce decree.

In Michigan, a divorce decree is the final court order that legally ends a marriage. It is signed by a judge and outlines the rights and responsibilities of each party post-divorce. This includes the division of marital property and debts, alimony (spousal support), and if applicable, child custody, parenting time (visitation), child support, health insurance provisions for minor children, and payment for extracurricular activities. The terms specified in the divorce decree are legally binding and enforceable. If either party fails to comply with the terms, the other party can take legal action to enforce the decree. The enforcement may involve returning to court for a contempt proceeding or other legal remedies. It's important for individuals going through a divorce in Michigan to understand that the divorce decree represents a legal obligation, and failure to adhere to its terms can result in legal consequences.