Michigan Child Custody Laws: An Overview, Part Two
NOTE: This article on child custody laws in Michigan is not intended to be, nor should it be, used as a substitute for independent legal
counsel. It is for general informational purposes only. Consult with an attorney for an evaluation of how these issues impact your personal
situation.
Child custody laws in Michigan are multi-faceted, and weigh heavily around the facts of each individual case. Here, we discuss in a very general
sense some of the main issues courts consider when there is a child custody dispute.
Established Custodial Environment
The Child Custody Act states that a judge should not issue a new order or modify an existing order to change the established custodial
environment of a child unless clear and convincing evidence is presented that it is in the best interests of the child.
The act
defines an established custodial environment: “The custodial environment of a child is established if over an appreciable time the child naturally looks to the custodian in that environment for guidance, discipline, the necessities of life, and parental comfort. The age of the child, the
physical environment, and the inclination of the custodian and the child as to permanency of the relationship shall also be considered.”
The established custodial environment may seem like a simple issue, but can actually be quite complicated and varies from case to case.
No two cases are the same, and just because your friend, or your boss, or your sister's, case turned out one way does not mean yours will be the
same.
Best Interests of the Child
Similarly, the best interests of the child has multiple factors that must be considered very carefully
by parties and their attorneys in a custody case, because this is the central issue to every custody case and must be considered by the judge.
Learn More:
Child Custody in Michigan: An Overview, Part One
Learn about the best interests of the child factors that courts must consider in a Michigan child
custody dispute.
What are the different types of child custody? Click here to learn more.
Have a question or need help with child custody laws in Michigan? Contact Michigan attorney Nicole Wipp.
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