Child Custody And Parenting Time Disputes

If parents get divorced or if unmarried parents have children together in Michigan, they need to understand their child custody rights. This is especially true during parenting time disputes when court orders must be followed.

Here at Kershaw, Vititoe & Jedinak, PLC, we have more than 20 years of combined experience handling child custody and family law issues. Our attorneys are known for prioritizing client communication and offering personalized services. For example, our lawyers can meet with clients all across Michigan and are willing to travel to do so.

The Focus Of Child Custody Laws In Michigan

Child custody laws in Michigan focus on the child’s best interests. This is true when dividing physical custody or legal custody. The former is to determine where a child will live, while the latter is to decide the authority each parent has to make key decisions for their child such as determining what pediatrician they should see, what school they should attend or what religion they should be involved in.

Michigan’s Parenting Time Guidelines

When determining parenting time, courts start with the presumption that it is usually best for a child to maintain a relationship with both parents. This means parenting time and legal custody rights are often shared between both parents, requiring them to coordinate custody exchanges and collaborate on important decisions.

However, the guidelines do note that a judge can grant sole custody rights if they believe that there is a potential risk to the child’s physical, mental or emotional health. The court will consider factors that include the parents’ mental and physical health, their financial capacity to care for the child and any history of abuse or criminal allegations.

Enforcing Child Custody Orders

Once a child custody order has been issued, it must be followed. Modifications are sometimes possible, such as when a parent has to relocate to take a new job. However, the existing order has to be upheld until the modifications have been applied.

If one parent does not comply with the custody order, they could then be found in contempt of court. This could put their own custody rights at risk. When this happens, it’s important to know what legal steps to take to have the court enforce the order.

Setting Up A Consultation

Child custody and parenting time disputes can get very complex in Michigan. To schedule your consultation, use the online contact form or call us at 734-636-0960 today.