Determining Child Custody in Michigan
When a divorce or separation is amicable, parents may determine their own custody and visitation agreements. In these cases, both parents will agree to a plan, including where the child or children will live, who they will spend holidays with, and which parent will be primarily responsible for decision making. This agreement will then be approved by the judge.
If, however, parents cannot reach an agreement, decisions will be made by the family court. In these cases, the court will favor the best interests of the child and will seek to involve both parents in their lives, except in cases where their child’s emotional or physical wellbeing may be put in danger, such as in the face of drug or alcohol abuse, domestic violence, or other unsafe conditions.
While a family court may not have all the details about your specific situation, they will look at a number of factors, including:
- The child’s preferences, if they are old enough to provide them
- Both parents’ financial situation and their ability to support the child
- The child’s special needs regarding their healthcare, education, and other services
- Both parents’ mental and physical health
Legal vs. Physical Custody
There are two types of custody: Legal, which refers to the parent who makes important decisions regarding a child’s health, welfare, education, and religious upbringing, and physical, or where the child will live. Parents can be awarded joint legal and/or physical custody, primary or sole custody, or a different arrangement, depending on what is in the best interests of the child.
Parenting Time
Parenting time is established by the court to determine the amount of time the noncustodial parent has with their child. Like with custody agreements, parenting time to based on what is in the best interests of the child, in addition to the parents’ schedules.
Courts will look at the following factors when determining parenting time:
- The current relationships between both parents and the child
- The parent’s ability to provide essentials, like shelter and food, to the child
- The parent’s financial status
- The desire to retain love, guidance, and stability for the child
- Any history of abuse, violence, or addiction
- The child’s preferences, if they are old enough to provide them
In any decision, the child’s needs are paramount, and the court will seek to cause as little disruption in their lives as possible. After all, children thrive in familiar environments where both parents are a present and positive influence in their lives. The Wealthy Street Law Firm can help you seek a fair parenting plan that puts your child’s needs first.
Contact our firm by calling (616) 202-3988. We proudly serve families throughout Michigan.
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I’ve worked with this firm for over 2 years. Amazing service and staff!!- Aladin K.
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I am thrilled to be able to leave a rave review of my attorney Lee Coppage. Not only was he sharply dressed and his appearance spoke business but his expertise and manner in which he takes over a courtroom was amazing. I was always satisfied to know that he would definitely get my point across and my voice would be heard through him (loud and clear) every single court appearance. He helped guide me through the worse time of my adult life. I was emotionally flustered and extremely concerned about my children and their wellbeing. Lee was supportive, knowledgeable and extremely patient with me. Several times I had emotional breakdowns and the staff in Mr. Crowe's office was very respectful and tolerated everything. It was a long year for me but I am proud to say that I made the best decision by hiring the office of Wayne Crowe Jr and blessed by having Lee represent me in court during this custody battle. I am extremely satisfied with the service provided to me.- Janet Caraballo
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This law firm is the best. Mr.Phillp Jones is one of the best attorneys. I would recommend him to any one. He got me through a rough time were I thought there was no way out. I think him for a job well done.- Colin
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They fight for whats best for you, family is their most importan mater. Michael King help me with my divorce when I was feeling hopeless about my case. He stud up for my daughter's safety and my rights I would go to them in a heart beat if ever needed help again. I just can't thank them enough Michael, Jackelyn, and hennessey they are all exelent people.- Veronica G. Herrera
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Thank god I found this firm. The offices of Wayne Crowe came through for me big time. I wanna especially thank Mr. Lee Coppage he was exactly what my case needed. He was very aggressive but professional at the same time. I got full custody of my daughter today and couldn't be happier.- Steve Hernandez
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Wayne and his staff turned an otherwise painful situation into a quick and easy process. Thorough and professional. Thanks Wayne!- Timothy Stamm
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She was amazing, knowledgeable, and compassionate I look forward to her representing all upcoming cases. Bolinda was awesome.- Colin
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Great lawyers the best I have ever seen. This place has the best people who are extremely nice and happy people. And the price is set at such a fair and great price.- Michael K.