Child Custody Attorney in Wyoming

Child custody disputes are among the most difficult and painful situations for a family to face. If you and your former spouse are struggling to reach an arrangement that’s in your child’s best interests, the team at Kraayeveld Family Law can assist you through sound advice and dedicated support.

For over 30 years, our family law firm has assisted unmarried parents and divorcing couples with their child custody matters. We will help you understand how to file for custody in Michigan, advocate for you and your child, and work toward a favorable outcome.

Discover how a child custody lawyer in Wyoming, MI, can help. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation.

How Kraayeveld Family Law Can Help with Your Wyoming, MI, Child Custody Case

At Kraayeveld Family Law, we understand the stakes are high when it comes to child custody cases. Our firm is well-equipped to handle the challenges of your situation with a hands-on, personalized approach. When you come to us for help, we stand firmly by your side from day one, prioritizing your interests and your family’s future.

We have earned a formidable reputation for our ability to effectively settle cases, though we do not hesitate to go to trial when necessary. Whatever the circumstances, our sole focus is on advocating for you to obtain the most favorable outcome possible.

Choosing Kraayeveld Family Law means putting your trust in a team that aims to secure what you want and makes the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our Wyoming, MI, child custody lawyers can provide the support and guidance you need for a wide variety of child custody matters and related issues, including:

Our attorneys and legal team are committed to responding quickly and efficiently to your needs from start to finish. You will never feel lost in the shuffle when you work with us, as we provide the individualized attention you deserve. With our one-business-day guarantee, you’ll never have to wait longer than necessary for us to reach out to you with answers to your pressing questions.

What Are the Different Types of Child Custody in Michigan?

Understanding the different types of child custody is essential for parents going through a separation or divorce in Michigan. The following are the main types of custody.

Legal Custody

Legal custody gives a parent the right to make significant decisions about their child’s life. These include decisions about education, health care, and religious upbringing.

Physical Custody

Physical custody in Michigan pertains to the rights of a parent to have their child live with them. This type of custody determines where the child primarily resides, but it does not prevent noncustodial parents from having visitation or parenting time.

Sole Custody

Sole custody means one parent has exclusive rights to legal or physical custody of the child or both. When a parent has sole legal custody, they alone make important decisions about the child’s upbringing without consulting the other parent. Sole physical custody means the child primarily lives with one parent, though the other might still have visitation rights.

Joint Custody

Michigan also allows joint custody arrangements, where both parents share legal or physical custody. This does not necessarily mean the child spends exactly half the time with each parent, but it does mean both parents have significant roles in the child’s upbringing.

What Must Judges Consider in Michigan Child Custody Cases?

In Michigan child custody cases, judges must prioritize what serves the child’s best interests. This requires the consideration of a comprehensive list of factors outlined under Michigan law. These Michigan custody factors include:

• The emotional ties, love, and affection between the child and each parent
• Each parent’s ability to provide love and guidance and continue the child’s education and religious upbringing
• Each parent’s ability to meet the child’s basic needs, such as food, clothing, and medical care
• The length of time the child has lived in a stable environment and the benefits of maintaining this continuity
• The permanence of the family unit within the current or proposed homes
• The moral fitness of the parties involved
• The mental and physical health of the parties
• The child’s performance and behavior in home, school, and community settings
• The child’s own preference, if they are mature enough to express a reasoned choice
• The willingness of each parent to support and facilitate a nurturing relationship between the child and the other parent
• Any occurrences of domestic violence, whether the child was a direct victim or a witness
• Any other factors that the court finds relevant to the specific custody dispute, such as each parent’s criminal history or financial resources and the state of each parent’s home

Can I Have My Child Custody Agreement Modified?

Yes, Michigan child custody laws allow you to modify your child custody agreement in specific situations. You can request a modification if there have been significant changes in your circumstances or those of the other parent or when proper cause exists. Common reasons for seeking a custody modification include a parent’s relocation, a change in parent’s living arrangements, or significant changes in the child’s needs as they grow.

To modify an agreement, you must demonstrate to the court that these changes significantly affect the children’s well-being and that a new arrangement is necessary to serve their best interests.

How Can a Parent Lose Custody in Michigan?

A Michigan parent can lose custody if their behavior negatively impacts the child’s safety or well-being. Factors that might lead to a loss of custody include proven instances of abuse or neglect, substance abuse, a failure to provide basic care, or exposing the child to dangerous situations or environments.

Additionally, repeated violations of existing custody orders, such as consistently denying the other parent their legal parenting time, can also result in a loss of custody. Judges always prioritize the child’s best interests when deciding on custody matters. So, even though the courts prefer to have children maintain contact with both parents, they can and do deny custody when appropriate.

How Can I Improve My Chances of Securing My Desired Custody or Visitation Rights?

Securing your desired custody or visitation arrangement in Michigan requires careful preparation and responsible behavior. The following are some ways to improve your chances:

• Demonstrate a stable lifestyle, showing that you can provide a safe and nurturing environment for your child.
• Stay actively involved in your child’s daily activities and education, highlighting your dedication as a parent.
• Follow all court orders and legal advice to prove your commitment to the law and your child’s best interests.
• Keep detailed records of your interactions and agreements with the other parent.
• Attend all scheduled court hearings and required sessions, such as mediation or parenting classes, to show your proactive involvement.
• Avoid behavior that could negatively impact your case, like confrontations with the other parent.
• Work with a reputable lawyer who can guide you through the legal process and advocate effectively on your behalf.

How Long Can a Child Custody Case Take in Michigan?

The duration of a child custody case can vary significantly depending on several factors. Typically, a straightforward case might resolve in a few months, but more complex situations can take a year or more. Factors that can extend the timeline include the level of conflict between parents, the complexity of the custody issues, and the court’s schedule.

If parents can agree on custody terms on their own or through mediation, the process can be significantly faster. However, if the case goes to trial, expect it to take longer for the court to thoroughly examine all the details.

Do I Need a Lawyer Even If My Co-Parent and I Agree on How to Share Custody?

Yes. Even if you and your co-parent agree on how to share custody, it’s wise to consult a lawyer to ensure your proposed arrangement is legally sound and enforceable. This is especially important in cases involving child custody for unmarried parents.

A lawyer can ensure your custody arrangement meets all legal requirements and will be formally recognized by the court. Such an agreement can prevent future disputes by clearly outlining each parent’s rights and responsibilities or allows for enforcement of the order. Additionally, a lawyer can provide valuable guidance on aspects you might not have considered, such as holiday schedules, decision-making rights, and necessary adjustments as your child grows.

How Far Can a Parent Move with Joint Custody?

Michigan parents with joint custody must adhere to specific legal restrictions if they wish to move with their children. Parents cannot move their children’s legal residences more than 100 miles away or out of state without approval from the court or consent from the other parent. If you are considering such a move, you should consult a lawyer who can help you understand the correct relocation process and seek the necessary legal permissions.

Contact Our Wyoming, MI, Child Custody Lawyers Today

Are you ready to discuss your situation with a Michigan child custody lawyer? We at Kraayeveld Family Law are here to listen to your concerns and help you outline a path forward that prioritizes your rights and your child’s well-being. Reach out to us today to schedule an initial consultation, and let’s start working together to secure a positive outcome for your family.