Custody / Parenting Time / Child Support

Expert Legal Guidance for Michigan Families.

Types of Custody in Michigan

In Michigan, there are two types of custody: legal and physical. Legal custody refers to major decisions about your child’s life, such as education and healthcare, while physical custody is about where the child lives. However, parenting time is often the most important factor in custody cases. Parenting time determines when and how often you spend time with your children, and it can also impact the amount of child support you may need to pay or receive.

Why You Need Effective Legal Counsel

No matter what type of custody arrangement you’re dealing with, having a knowledgeable attorney by your side is crucial to help you create a parenting time schedule that works for both you and your children. Preparation is key, and keeping a calendar to track the activities you do with your children can be a helpful way to show your involvement. The court wants to understand who is taking care of the children, and a clear calendar can provide important evidence of how actively you’re engaged in their lives.

Understanding Child Support Calculations

Child support is calculated based on factors like income, the number of children involved, how many overnight stays each parent has, and the cost of things like childcare and medical coverage. While the formula for child support is fairly set, it’s important to understand what counts as income for both you and the other parent, and which deductions are allowed.

Modifying Child Support

Child support is subject to modification upon a showing of proper cause or a change in circumstances, so it’s a good idea to review it regularly. Your attorney can help make sure the calculations are accurate and let you know if a review or adjustment is needed.

Ready to take the first step with an experienced advocate on your side? Call us today for expert legal assistance.