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Child Custody

Few issues are more contentious or complex during a divorce or separation than child custody disputes. 

As children are the most precious people in their lives, parents can often encounter great difficulty when negotiating the terms of their child’s living situation and the powers that each parent will have in making important decisions on their children’s behalf.

If you find yourself at odds with your co-parent about custody and parenting time or you need advice about your parental rights under Michigan law, then contact Haskell Law, PC, in Grand Rapids. 

I am firm founder Michael J. Haskell, a family law attorney with more than two decades of legal experience as well as personal experience, having gone through divorce and child custody proceedings myself. I understand how important your children are to you, and I am equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to help negotiate a plan that ensures that your relationship with your child is protected.

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How Are Child Custody And Parenting Time Determined In Michigan?

Under Michigan law, child custody is granted in the forms of legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody is the power to make major decisions on behalf of the child, including medical, educational and financial decisions. Conversely, physical custody refers to the time that a parent is physically with their child and the child’s living arrangements. It is also referred to as parenting time.

Depending on the circumstances, legal and physical custody can be granted to parents either jointly or separately. Parenting time can be awarded equally or unequally. It is often allocated at least somewhat unequally because a perfect split of time is logistically difficult in most cases.

While parents can negotiate a mutually acceptable arrangement out of court through mediation, in the event that an agreement cannot be reached, the courts may step in and issue a decision that aligns with the child’s best interests.

The presiding judge will consider all the following factors in their decision:

  • The wishes of the parents;
  • The preferences of the child, if of suitable age;
  • The relationship between the child and each parent;
  • The health of all involved parties;
  • The stability of the home environment;
  • The child’s developmental needs; and
  • The level of adjustment required for the child.
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Whether you seek shared custody, joint custody or individual custody, I will work closely with you to reach an agreement that protects your rights and your child’s well-being. While I always attempt to reach an amicable and negotiated agreement when possible, I am fully prepared to pursue litigation to secure the results you need.

With so much at stake in your child custody matter, you cannot afford to leave your case in the hands of a less-experienced attorney. I offer customized legal strategies and an unshakable dedication to preserving your rights, and I have what it takes to help you get through this difficult experience as smoothly as possible.

For more information about child custody from the trusted attorney at Haskell Law, PC, please contact us here or call us directly at 616.266.3076.