HOW IS PARENTING TIME DETERMINED IN A MICHIGAN DIVORCE?

Divorce is always difficult, but when children are involved, it adds another layer of delicateness to the situation.  Judges are forced to determine parenting time for one or both parties and are charged with the duty of doing what is best in the child’s interest, which can be a difficult task.  In Michigan, there is a lengthy document called the Michigan Parenting Time Guideline, which helps courts to determine how custody matters will be handled.

Generally, courts determine whether custody issues will be resolved in one of three ways.  Parenting time, supervised parenting time, and joint custody are options the courts must consider when determining what is in the best interest of the child.

In Michigan, emphasis is placed on relationships between parents and children after a divorce or legal separation.  The courts strive to provide a parent and child with regular, structured time to enjoy each other’s company in a natural environment that is designed to allow rich relationships to flourish.  At times, courts have to consider whether one parent’s involvement would be dangerous to the child’s physical, mental, or emotional health, and in those instances, a court might grant sole custody to one parent. This might also include supervised parenting time for the other, but not always.

In order for the court to fully understand the facts surrounding a parenting time decision, expert lawyers need to act as a liaison between the parent and court.  Skilled lawyers can help the court have a better understanding of the facts, which allows for the judge to make a well-informed parenting time decision.

Sometimes one party in a divorce will forego an attorney and represent themselves.  It is extremely important for parents to have legal representation when courts are determining parenting time.  The lawyers at Bailey Smith & Bailey P.C. specialize in meticulously handling divorce cases where parenting time is a concern.  If you need legal help with a divorce, contact Bailey Smith & Bailey P.C. Zoday to schedule a consultation.