The Legal Help You Need When Facing Parenting Time Issues In Michigan

There are two elements to custody in Michigan: legal custody and physical custody, the latter of which is known as parenting time. It refers to the amount of time each parent physically spends with their child (or the amount of time the child is in their care). For obvious reasons, parenting time tends to be one of the most contentious aspects of family law. Because children can be harmed by a high-conflict legal process, however, it is important to make parenting time proceedings peaceful and cooperative whenever possible.

If you need experienced family law representation in or around Grand Rapids, Michigan, look no further than KO Family Law. Attorney Ortega is well known for her skills as a negotiator, but also offers strategic and tenacious courtroom representation when necessary. She is also a strong advocate for children, having served in the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services prior to becoming an attorney.

Finding A Workable Parenting Time Schedule That Meets The Needs Of Children

Michigan law dictates that parenting time should be reasonably calculated to promote a strong relationship between the child and the parent. While there are some exceptions, the general rule is that it is in the best interests of the children to have a strong relationship with both parents. Like custody, there are several factors that the court will consider when awarding a parent time with his or her children (Michigan Legislature – Section 722.27a).

You will want to really consider your children and what schedule works best to make sure their needs are met. For instance, a week-on-week-off schedule can be too much for a younger child because younger children tend to do better with more frequent contact with both parents. In other cases, one parent often travels for work and more parenting time in the summer makes better sense.

When Grandparenting Time May Be Awarded

Michigan Law sets forth some very specific situations where a grandparent may file an action for grandparenting time (Michigan Legislature – Section 722.27b). Grandparents are not legally entitled to see their grandchildren in defiance of the parent’s wishes unless they can demonstrate that their inability to see their grandkids would cause harm to the children’s health (mental, emotional or physical).

Because of the legal nuances of the grandparenting time case, it is best to have an attorney who is knowledgeable and familiar with the complexities involved with establishing a legal basis for awarding grandparenting time. Kendra Ortega is one such attorney.

Find Out How An Experienced Attorney Can Help You

To discuss your options with attorney Ortega, please contact the firm to schedule an initial consultation. You can message the firm online or call 616-369-7566.