Child Custody & Visitation
Child custody attorney in Michigan
Nothing matters more than your children. We connect you with an experienced Michigan custody attorney who will protect your relationship with them and help you build a plan that works.
Custody in Michigan, explained simply
Michigan custody decisions are guided by one question above all: what is in the best interests of the child. Custody has two parts. Legal custody is about who makes major decisions, such as schooling and healthcare. Physical custody is about where the child lives. Many families share both, but every situation is different.
Courts weigh a set of best-interest factors set out in Michigan law, including each parent's bond with the child, stability, and the ability to provide care. Parenting time, sometimes called visitation, is set so children keep a strong relationship with both parents when that is safe.
We are a referral service, not a law firm. We connect you with a Michigan attorney who handles custody cases and who will explain your options in plain language, without pressure.
What a custody case can involve
- Legal and physical custody. Establishing who decides and where the child lives, whether joint or sole.
- Parenting time. A schedule that fits your family, including holidays and exchanges.
- Support and related issues. Custody often connects to child support, and arises within a divorce or a paternity case.
- Changes over time. Modifying an order when circumstances change, such as a move or a new schedule.
How matching works
In Michigan, the county Friend of the Court helps manage custody and parenting time, and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services resources can help with related support matters. The attorney we match you with will guide you through how this works in your county.
Custody questions, answered
How is custody decided in Michigan?
Custody is decided by the best interests of the child, using a set of factors in Michigan law. Courts look at each parent's bond with the child, stability, and ability to provide care, among other things.
What is the difference between legal and physical custody?
Legal custody is about who makes major decisions for the child, such as schooling and healthcare. Physical custody is about where the child primarily lives. Parents often share one or both.
What is parenting time?
Parenting time, sometimes called visitation, is the schedule for when the child is with each parent. It is set to support a strong relationship with both parents when that is safe.
Does Michigan favor mothers over fathers?
No. Michigan law does not favor either parent based on gender. Decisions are based on the best interests of the child, and both parents start on equal footing.
Can a custody order be changed?
Yes. A custody or parenting time order can be modified when there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a move or a change in the child's needs. An attorney can explain the standard that applies.
What role does the Friend of the Court play?
The county Friend of the Court helps with custody, parenting time, and support, including investigations, recommendations, and enforcement. Your attorney works with this office on your behalf.
At what age can a child choose where to live?
There is no set age at which a child chooses. A court may consider a mature child's preference as one factor, but the decision always rests on the child's best interests.
Do I need a lawyer for a custody case?
You are not required to have one, but custody affects your relationship with your children, so most people want experienced guidance. The consultation is free, with no obligation.
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Free, confidential, and no obligation. We will connect you with a trusted Michigan custody attorney.