Rurka Law PLC

Rurka Law PLC Fierce, competent legal representation rooted in compassion and integrity.

Yes, you can date while your divorce is pending in Michigan—but that doesn’t mean it’s always a good idea.Michigan is a ...
08/31/2026

Yes, you can date while your divorce is pending in Michigan—but that doesn’t mean it’s always a good idea.

Michigan is a no-fault divorce state, so you do not have to prove wrongdoing to get divorced. However, a new relationship can still complicate your case, especially when issues involving children, finances, or marital property are involved.

Dating during a divorce could:

• Increase conflict between you and your spouse
• Create concerns if a new partner is introduced to your children too quickly
• Raise questions about how marital money is being spent
• Make custody or parenting-time disputes more contentious
• Complicate negotiations and make reaching a settlement more difficult

Every divorce is different. Before making decisions that could affect your case, it can be helpful to understand the potential legal and practical consequences.

If you’re going through a divorce in Monroe County, Michigan, Rurka Law can help you understand your rights and navigate the process.

Missing a child support payment can have serious legal consequences—but ignoring the problem can make it even worse.If y...
08/27/2026

Missing a child support payment can have serious legal consequences—but ignoring the problem can make it even worse.

If you’re unable to make a payment, it’s important to act quickly. Child support does not automatically change because you’ve lost your job, experienced a financial setback, or had another major life change.

In Michigan, failing to pay child support can result in:
• Wage garnishment
• Interception of tax refunds
• Suspension of your driver’s or professional license
• Liens against property
• Contempt of court proceedings
• In some cases, even jail time

If your financial circumstances have changed, you may be able to ask the court for a modification of your child support obligation. However, any changes generally apply only after the court approves them—they are not retroactive to missed payments.

If you’ve fallen behind on child support or believe your current order no longer reflects your financial situation, don’t wait until the consequences become more severe. Understanding your legal options early can help protect your rights and put you on the path toward resolving the issue.

08/24/2026

Divorce doesn’t automatically freeze a joint bank account.

If you and your spouse share a checking or savings account, either person may still be able to withdraw funds unless a court order says otherwise. That can create unexpected financial challenges during the divorce process.

Before making any decisions, it’s important to understand your rights and avoid actions that could negatively impact your case. Every situation is different, and protecting your financial interests starts with getting the right legal guidance.

If you’re considering divorce in Monroe County, Rurka Law can help you navigate the process and work to protect what matters most.

Contact Rurka Law today to discuss your options.

Losing a loved one is difficult enough without having to navigate the legal process alone.If you’ve been named as a pers...
08/21/2026

Losing a loved one is difficult enough without having to navigate the legal process alone.

If you’ve been named as a personal representative (executor) or are trying to settle a family member’s estate, probate can involve court filings, creditor notices, asset transfers, deadlines, and legal responsibilities that quickly become overwhelming.

At Rurka Law, we help families throughout Monroe County navigate the probate administration process with clear guidance and compassionate legal support. Whether the estate is straightforward or more complex, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence while protecting your loved one’s legacy.

If you’re facing probate after the loss of a family member, don’t try to figure it out on your own. Let Rurka Law help you through every step of the process.

Learn more about Probate Administration at Rurka Law or contact our office to schedule a consultation.

08/18/2026

Many people think estate planning is only for the wealthy or retirees. The truth is, if you own a home, have a bank account, have children, or simply want a say in what happens if you’re unable to make decisions, you need an estate plan.

Without one, Michigan law—not you—will determine who handles your affairs and how your assets are distributed. That can lead to unnecessary delays, added expense, and added stress for the people you care about most.

A well-designed estate plan can:
• Protect your loved ones
• Name guardians for minor children
• Appoint someone to make financial and medical decisions if you’re unable
• Help avoid unnecessary probate complications
• Ensure your wishes are clearly documented

Estate planning isn’t about preparing for the end of life—it’s about protecting the people and the future you’ve worked hard to build.

Rurka Law helps individuals and families throughout Monroe County create estate plans that provide clarity, protection, and peace of mind.

08/13/2026

It may seem like the easiest way to reduce conflict, but moving out before your divorce is finalized can have legal and financial consequences.

Leaving the marital home doesn’t necessarily mean you’re giving up your ownership interest, but it could affect parenting arrangements, financial obligations, and other aspects of your case. In some situations, moving out may be the right choice—especially if the home has become unsafe or highly stressful.

Before making a decision, make sure you understand how it could affect your rights.

If you’re considering divorce, contact Rurka Law at (734) 242-2929 to discuss your options before making your next move.

Back-to-school season often brings more than shopping lists and class schedules—it can also create questions about child...
08/10/2026

Back-to-school season often brings more than shopping lists and class schedules—it can also create questions about child custody.

If you share custody, it’s important to understand who has the authority to make educational decisions. In Michigan, legal custody generally determines who makes major decisions about a child’s education, while physical custody determines where the child lives. Parents with joint legal custody are expected to work together on important school-related issues, including:

• Choosing or changing schools
• Special education services
• Parent-teacher conferences
• Academic and disciplinary decisions
• Access to school records

Disagreements can quickly become stressful, especially when a new school year is about to begin. Taking action without following your custody order could lead to additional legal issues.

If you’re facing a dispute over your child’s education or need to modify an existing custody arrangement, having experienced legal guidance can help protect both your rights and your child’s best interests.

Rurka Law proudly represents families throughout Monroe County, Michigan.

Getting married is one of life’s biggest milestones—but it doesn’t automatically update your estate plan.While marriage ...
08/07/2026

Getting married is one of life’s biggest milestones—but it doesn’t automatically update your estate plan.

While marriage can affect certain legal rights under Michigan law, it does not automatically update your will, trust, powers of attorney, or patient advocate designation. If your estate plan was created before you were married, it may no longer reflect your wishes.

After getting married, it’s a good idea to review:

* Your will or trust
* Beneficiary designations on retirement accounts and life insurance
* Financial Power of Attorney
* Patient Advocate Designation
* Guardianship provisions if you have or plan to have children

Taking the time to update your estate plan now can help ensure your spouse is protected and your wishes are carried out if the unexpected happens.

If you’ve recently married—or it’s been years since you’ve reviewed your estate plan—contact Rurka Law at (734) 242-2929. We’ll help make sure your plan reflects your current life and protects the people who matter most.

08/04/2026

For many drivers, paying a speeding ticket seems like the quickest solution. But before you do, remember that paying a ticket is generally an admission of responsibility—and it can result in points on your driving record, higher insurance premiums, and, in some cases, put your driver’s license at risk if you already have points.

Depending on the circumstances, you may have options. You can request a hearing to challenge the ticket or, in some cases, work toward having the charge or points reduced.

Every traffic case is different, and the right approach depends on your driving record and the specific citation you received.

Before you simply pay the fine, make sure you understand your options. Contact Rurka Law at (734) 242-2929 to discuss your case and learn how we may be able to help protect your driving record.

As your children head back to school, here’s an important question many parents don’t think about:Who would care for you...
07/30/2026

As your children head back to school, here’s an important question many parents don’t think about:

Who would care for your children if something happened to you?

If you have minor children, naming a guardian in your estate plan is one of the most important decisions you can make. Without clear legal documents, the decision could ultimately be left to the court.

A comprehensive estate plan allows you to:
• Name the person you trust to care for your children
• Provide guidance for their future care
• Help avoid unnecessary family disputes
• Give your loved ones clarity during an already difficult time

Life is unpredictable, but planning ahead can help protect the people who matter most.

As the new school year begins, take a moment to make sure your family is prepared for whatever the future may bring.

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Monroe, MI
48161

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