Okemos Divorce Lawyer

Facing Custody & Visitation Decisions

In every divorce, child custody and visitation decisions are one of the biggest challenges for families to face. As a parent, you want time to spend with your children and want to find a balance that works the best for them. It can be heartbreaking trying to make tough decisions related to parenting time and to final custody of children. We want to serve as your child custody lawyers, advocating for your rights as a parent.

We will also help you understand all the things the court may consider when determining a judgment related to custody. The timeline for divorces can vary, so we will help you understand the process for how the care, custody, and support of children is handled during the duration of your case before a divorce decree is issued.

It is important to understand that, in Michigan, there are several types of custody arrangements. The Child Custody Act outlines joint physical and legal custody options along with sole physical and legal custody options. Other types of custody include primary physical custody and other forms of parenting time determined for individual cases.

Besides the actual time spent with a child, other considerations of the court will be related to health care, schooling, and the ability of a parent to provide for a child in his or her care. Our team of family lawyers in Okemos can help you understand all the factors the court may examine in your custody case.

Consideration may include, but is not limited to the following factors:

• The capacity and willingness of each party to provide basic essentials for the child including food, clothing, medical care and shelter
• The existing bond between the child and each of the parents and the time the child has spent living with each party
• The physical and mental well-being of each individual
• The willingness of each parent to continue a close relationship with the child
• The location where the parent and child will call home along with the school where the child will attend

The different types of custody that exist include:

• Sole physical custody: One party is awarded most or all of the parenting time with a child
• Sole legal custody: One parent is able to decisions for the well-being of the minor child without the input of the other parent
• Joint physical custody: Parenting time is shared for children, but this arrangement does not guarantee an even split
• Joint legal custody: All decisions related to the child are made by both parents

Do not leave your child’s future in the hands of someone who does not have your best interests at heart. We can provide you with compassionate legal representation.

Spousal Support Awards

Even though Michigan is a no-fault divorce state, there are still instances where alimony/spousal support may be awarded to one party. Considerations made in these judgments include the earning capacity of one spouse, the length of the marriage, and overall wealth of both parties. The process of how alimony is awarded and distributed is complex, so it is essential to have an experienced divorce lawyer in Okemos to help you advocate for a fair judgment without lasting tax and other financial ramifications for you.