By David R. Dawson | Published January 15, 2022 | Posted in Divorce | Tagged Tags: child custody, child support, Friend of the court, parenting time |
What is the Role of the “Friend of the Court” in a Michigan Divorce?
Disputes over child support, custody and parenting time frequently arise in divorce cases. In Michigan, when parents cannot reach an agreement regarding these issues, the judge deciding them may get assistance from a “friend of the court” (FOC), a court-appointed official who can play a pivotal role in a divorce case. The duties of the Read More
Read MoreHow Relocation Can Affect Child Custody
Workable joint child custody plans depend on the parents living close to each other, or close enough that traveling between them to fulfill parenting time is not problematic. But changing circumstances may lead a parent to seek a relocation, whether to take a better job, to pursue an education or to be closer to family. Read More
Read MoreCan a Nonbiological Parent Can Seek Child Custody in Michigan?
The definition of family has evolved in the U.S. and with that change has come the legal recognition of parental rights arising from nontraditional relationships. In Michigan, a legal framework called the equitable parent doctrine allows a spouse who is not a biological parent of his or her spouse’s child, but who has raised and Read More
Read MoreHow Does a Finding of Domestic Violence Affect Child Custody?
Domestic violence is a serious problem that can play a significant role in how courts award custody of children in divorce cases and post-decree child support cases. But it is not always simple to decide whether certain conduct rises to the level of domestic violence. In a recent decision, a Michigan appeals court stated that Read More
Read MoreHow Michigan School Closures During COVID-19 May Affect Parenting Time
The coronavirus pandemic has upended just about every aspect of family life. With kids returning to school amid the threat of rolling shutdowns, it is understandable if divorced or separated parents are concerned about how the potential for school closures could impact their parenting schedules. Obviously, almost no parent out there considered the possibility of Read More
Read MoreDo’s and Don’ts of Seeking Custody and Parenting Time in Michigan
The thought of losing time with your child is challenging in any case. When custody and parenting time decisions are in the hands of a judge, it can feel like the most important relationship of your life is left to the will of a stranger. But going through a custody conflict in Michigan does not Read More
Read MoreHow to Prepare Yourself for a Divorce in Michigan
The sadness and turmoil of ending a relationship can easily distract a person from the objective focus needed during a divorce. Common mistakes include treating a divorce like a competition or rushing to resolve issues in hopes of getting the process over with. A thoughtful, strategic approach to your divorce can save you time, money Read More
Read MoreCan Michigan Custody and Parenting Time Be Affected By Where You Live?
After your marriage ends, you may want to start fresh by moving away. Your new financial situation in fact may price you out of the area where you previously lived. However, it is important to know that when it comes to child custody and parenting time, location matters. If you share custody of your child Read More
Read MoreHow Do Child Custody and Parenting Time Settlements Deal with Holidays?
Having to miss holidays with your child due to shared custody can be a difficult reality to face, but with a carefully prepared parenting plan, you can still be there for the important ones. The State of Michigan and Macomb County, along with many other counties, provide model parenting time guidelines. The “best practices” included Read More
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