There are two types of custody in Michigan: legal and physical. Legal custody relates to major decisions regarding the children; physical custody generally relates to where the child resides. However, parenting time is really the most important determination in any case. Parenting time determines when and how often you see your children and affects the amount of support you have to pay.

No matter what the custody arrangement is called, you need effective counsel to assist in securing a parenting time schedule that will benefit you and your children. Preparation is often the key to success. Keep a calendar to document the everyday activities you enjoy with your children in their best interest. The court wants to know who is caring for the minor children. A detailed calendar can provide key evidence as to how active you are as a parent.

Child support is a calculation based on income, the number of minor children, number of overnight stays, the cost of childcare and medical coverage, and the like. Although the formula is fairly inflexible, it is important to know what is included in your income and the income of the other parent and what are appropriate deductions. Child support is always modifiable and should be reviewed regularly. Your attorney can determine whether support was accurately calculated and if a review is warranted.