Question 1

What is a document preparation service?

Accepted Answer

A document preparation service helps you complete legal forms and paperwork accurately. We are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice. We prepare documents based on the information you provide, ensuring they meet court and filing requirements. This is often more affordable than hiring an attorney for straightforward matters.

Question 2

How long does document preparation take?

Accepted Answer

Most documents are prepared within 3-5 business days. Rush processing (24-48 hours) is available for an additional fee.

Question 3

Do you file the documents for me?

Accepted Answer

We prepare your documents and provide detailed filing instructions. You handle the actual filing, but we're here to answer questions along the way.

Question 4

Is the consultation free? Do you offer payment plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the initial consultation is free. For some matters, a payment arrangement may be available after we review your situation. Just ask during your consultation. Standard invoices are paid before preparation begins.

Question 5

What if I need changes after reviewing my documents?

Accepted Answer

Revisions are included in our service. Simply let us know what changes are needed, and we'll update your documents promptly.

Question 6

Do you provide legal advice?

Accepted Answer

No. We are a document preparation service and cannot provide legal advice, represent you in court, or tell you what decisions to make. For complex situations or questions about strategy, we recommend consulting with an attorney.

Question 7

Can I purchase a divorce package online?

Accepted Answer

No. Every situation is different, and the wrong service can create unnecessary expense and delays. Clear Path reviews each request before accepting the matter or issuing an invoice. Start by completing the preliminary intake or requesting a consultation.

Question 8

When will I receive an invoice?

Accepted Answer

If Clear Path determines that the requested administrative services are appropriate, we will provide a personalized quote. An invoice is issued only after the service scope and pricing are confirmed.

Question 9

Does completing an intake mean Clear Path accepted my matter?

Accepted Answer

No. An intake submission is a request for review. It does not create a service agreement, guarantee acceptance, or require payment.

Question 10

What if I need an attorney?

Accepted Answer

If the situation requires legal advice, negotiation, custom legal drafting, or representation, Clear Path may recommend contacting an independent licensed attorney or law firm. Attorney services are separate from Clear Path.

Question 11

How much does Clear Path charge for Michigan divorce paperwork?

Accepted Answer

Simple, fully agreed divorce paperwork starts at $449. Standard uncontested divorce paperwork starts at $699. Agreed divorces involving minor children start at $1,099. Complex agreed matters require individual screening and start at $1,299. Final pricing is provided after intake review.

Question 12

Are court fees included in Clear Path's divorce pricing?

Accepted Answer

No. Clear Path's prices cover its administrative services only. Court filing fees, service, copies, recording fees, attorney fees, and other third-party costs are separate.

Question 13

What is the difference between your service and hiring an attorney?

Accepted Answer

We are a document preparation service, not a law firm. We help you prepare the paperwork based on information you provide, but we cannot give legal advice, represent you in court, or tell you what decisions to make. An attorney can provide legal advice and represent your interests. Many people use our services for straightforward, uncontested matters where they've already made their decisions.

Question 14

How long does an uncontested divorce take?

Accepted Answer

The document preparation typically takes 3-5 business days. However, the overall divorce timeline depends on your state's waiting period, court processing times, and how quickly you can get documents signed and filed. Most uncontested divorces take 2-6 months from filing to finalization.

Question 15

What if my spouse and I don't agree on everything?

Accepted Answer

Our uncontested divorce service is designed for couples who have already agreed on all major issues (property division, custody, support). If you have disagreements, we recommend consulting with an attorney or mediator before using our document preparation services.

Question 16

Can you help with custody disputes?

Accepted Answer

We can prepare motion documents for custody modifications, but we cannot provide advice on custody strategy or represent you in disputed custody matters. For contested custody issues, we strongly recommend consulting with a family law attorney.

Question 17

What's the difference between a will and a living trust?

Accepted Answer

A will takes effect after death and goes through probate court. A living trust takes effect immediately, allows you to manage assets during your lifetime, and can help your estate avoid probate. Trusts offer more privacy and can be more efficient for larger or complex estates, but wills are simpler and less expensive to create.

Question 18

Do I need a lawyer to create a will?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required in most states, consulting with an attorney is recommended for complex estates or situations involving business interests, blended families, or significant assets. Our document preparation services are ideal for straightforward situations where you've already made your decisions and need help with the paperwork.

Question 19

What is a power of attorney?

Accepted Answer

A power of attorney is a legal document that allows you to designate someone (an 'agent') to make decisions on your behalf. A financial power of attorney covers financial and legal matters, while a healthcare power of attorney covers medical decisions. These can be 'durable,' meaning they remain in effect if you become incapacitated.

Question 20

How often should I update my estate planning documents?

Accepted Answer

You should review your documents every 3-5 years or whenever you experience major life changes such as marriage, divorce, birth of children, significant changes in assets, or moving to a different state. We can help prepare updated documents when needed.

Question 21

What's the difference between an LLC and a Corporation?

Accepted Answer

An LLC (Limited Liability Company) offers flexibility in management and taxation while providing liability protection. A Corporation has a more formal structure with shareholders, directors, and officers, and can issue stock. LLCs are often preferred by small businesses for their simplicity, while corporations may be better for businesses planning to raise investment capital.

Question 22

Do I need a registered agent?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most states require businesses to have a registered agent—a person or company designated to receive legal documents on behalf of the business. We can provide information about registered agent services in your area, though we do not serve as registered agents ourselves.

Question 23

What is an EIN and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is like a Social Security number for your business. You need one if you have employees, operate as a corporation or partnership, or want to open a business bank account. We can prepare your EIN application as part of our services.

Question 24

Do you file the documents with the state?

Accepted Answer

We prepare all documents and provide detailed filing instructions, but you are responsible for actually submitting the documents to the state. This ensures you maintain control over the process and can verify everything before filing.

Question 25

What type of notice do I need before filing for eviction?

Accepted Answer

The type of notice depends on the reason for eviction and your state's laws. Common notices include pay or quit notices (for unpaid rent), cure or quit notices (for lease violations), and unconditional quit notices (for serious violations). We'll help you prepare the appropriate notice based on your situation.

Question 26

How long does the eviction process take?

Accepted Answer

Timelines vary significantly by state and whether the tenant contests the eviction. Generally, the process takes 2-8 weeks from filing to judgment, plus additional time for enforcement if needed. Proper documentation from the start helps avoid delays.

Question 27

What should be included in a lease agreement?

Accepted Answer

A comprehensive lease should include rent amount and due date, security deposit terms, lease duration, maintenance responsibilities, rules about pets and guests, entry notice requirements, and termination procedures. Our lease agreements cover all essential terms and include state-specific requirements.

Question 28

Do you represent landlords in court?

Accepted Answer

No, we are a document preparation service and cannot represent anyone in court. We prepare the documents you need, but you will represent yourself or hire an attorney for court appearances.

Question 29

What's the difference between small claims and regular civil court?

Accepted Answer

Small claims court handles disputes under a certain dollar amount (varies by state, typically $5,000-$15,000) with simplified procedures. Regular civil court handles larger claims with more formal rules. Small claims is designed for self-representation, while civil court often benefits from attorney involvement.

Question 30

What can I sue for in small claims court?

Accepted Answer

Common small claims cases include unpaid debts, property damage, breach of contract, security deposit disputes, defective products, and minor personal injury claims. The claim must be for money damages within your state's limit.

Question 31

Do I need a lawyer for small claims court?

Accepted Answer

Small claims court is designed for self-represented parties, and in some states, attorneys aren't even allowed. Our document preparation services help you present your case professionally without the expense of legal representation.

Question 32

What evidence do I need for my case?

Accepted Answer

Strong evidence includes contracts, receipts, photos, text messages, emails, and witness statements. Our exhibit preparation service helps you organize your evidence professionally for court presentation.

Question 33

Are you an immigration law firm?

Accepted Answer

No. We are a document preparation service, not a law firm, and we do not provide legal advice. We help you complete USCIS forms accurately based on the information you provide. For questions about immigration strategy, visa eligibility, or legal issues, we recommend consulting with an immigration attorney.

Question 34

What forms can you help with?

Accepted Answer

We can assist with common USCIS forms including N-400 (naturalization), I-485 (adjustment of status), I-130 (petition for alien relative), I-864 (affidavit of support), and various other immigration forms. Contact us to discuss your specific needs.

Question 35

How long does the immigration process take?

Accepted Answer

Processing times vary significantly based on the form type, service center, and current USCIS workload. We prepare your documents quickly (3-7 business days), but USCIS processing can take months to years. We provide current estimated timelines when you begin.

Question 36

Can you guarantee my application will be approved?

Accepted Answer

No. We cannot guarantee outcomes, and no one can. Approval depends on meeting USCIS eligibility requirements and the accuracy of the information provided. We help ensure your forms are completed accurately and completely, but the decision rests with USCIS.

Question 37

What is the difference between your service and a credit repair company?

Accepted Answer

We prepare the letters and documents you need based on the information you provide. You review, sign, and submit them yourself — we do not negotiate with creditors or guarantee specific results, and you stay in control of your credit repair process.

Question 38

How long does credit repair take?

Accepted Answer

The document preparation typically takes 1-5 business days depending on the service. The actual credit repair process varies widely—credit bureaus have 30-45 days to investigate disputes under the FCRA. Most people see results within 30-90 days, but complex situations may take longer.

Question 39

Can you guarantee negative items will be removed?

Accepted Answer

No. We prepare professional, properly-formatted documents, but we cannot guarantee results. Credit bureaus and creditors make their own decisions about disputes. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, inaccurate, unverifiable, or outdated information should be removed, but accurate information may remain.

Question 40

What types of items can be disputed?

Accepted Answer

You have the right to dispute any information you believe is inaccurate, incomplete, or unverifiable. Common disputes include accounts that aren't yours, incorrect payment history, wrong account balances, outdated information (older than 7 years for most items), and duplicate entries.

Question 41

How much does expungement document preparation cost in Michigan?

Accepted Answer

Our document preparation starts at $395 for a marijuana conviction set-aside, $495 for a single misdemeanor, $749 for a felony or multiple misdemeanors, and $995 for multiple convictions or a complex record. Court and fingerprint fees are separate. We review your record first and give a written quote before any payment.

Question 42

What is Michigan's Clean Slate law?

Accepted Answer

Michigan's Clean Slate law expanded who can apply to set aside convictions and created automatic set-asides for some older convictions. Whether a particular conviction qualifies is a legal question; our free Expungement Checker explains the general rules.

Question 43

Do you go to court with me?

Accepted Answer

No. Clear Path is not a law firm. We prepare and organize your application paperwork. If a hearing is scheduled, you may represent yourself or hire a licensed attorney.

Question 44

How long does an expungement take?

Accepted Answer

Our paperwork usually takes about 1–2 weeks once we have your records. The Michigan State Police background check and court scheduling typically add several months.

Question 45

How much does license restoration paperwork cost?

Accepted Answer

Our Michigan restoration packets start at $649 (Restoration Packet), $849 (Restoration Plus), and $1,049 (Complete Restoration). Substance-use evaluations and drug screens are paid separately to those providers. Every matter is reviewed before a written quote.

Question 46

Is license restoration the same as a hardship license?

Accepted Answer

No. License restoration is the Secretary of State process to remove a revocation. A restricted license is a separate, limited driving privilege.

Question 47

Do you represent me at the Secretary of State hearing?

Accepted Answer

No. We prepare and organize your documents. Hearing representation requires a licensed Michigan attorney.

Question 48

What documents do I need to start?

Accepted Answer

Usually a current substance-use evaluation, a recent 10-panel drug screen, several notarized testimonial letters, and your driving record. We send a checklist after you contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Family Law

Estate Planning

Business Formation

Landlord-Tenant

Civil & Small Claims

Immigration

Credit Repair

Expungement

License Restoration

Still Have Questions?

ClearPath Assistant