Parenting Time Attorney in Ypsilanti, Michigan
One of the most precious things a parent can enjoy is spending time with their children. However, the thing you enjoy so much can be taken away from you or severely restricted when you and the other parent file for divorce or become separated. But you can—and should—fight for a fair parenting time schedule to ensure you will spend enough quality time with your kids.
Attorney John Bailey from The Law Offices of John R. Bailey can help you find the right approach to take in your case so that you get an adequate amount of parenting time. The parenting time attorney in Ypsilanti, Michigan, strives to minimize conflict and negotiate arrangements that promote stability and healthy relationships. When necessary, the attorney is prepared to litigate the matter to protect the best interests of the client and their children.
What Is Parenting Time?
Parenting time refers to the schedule that determines when children spend time with each parent after separation or divorce. It ensures that both parents maintain a meaningful and stable relationship with their children, contributing to their emotional and psychological well-being.
Parenting Time Laws in Michigan
Under Michigan's Child Custody Act, parenting time is designed to facilitate strong bonds between children and both parents unless it’s against the child’s best interests. The act ensures equitable parenting time, reflecting the importance of each parent’s role. It presumes that it is in the best interests of a child to have a healthy and ongoing relationship with both parents.
The act provides guidance on how courts should approach parenting time, ensuring decisions are made with the child's well-being as a priority. If you want to understand the laws that affect your particular situation, you might want to schedule a consultation with a parenting time attorney to assist with your child custody needs.
How Do Michigan Courts Determine Parenting Time?
Michigan courts consider several factors to determine the appropriate parenting time arrangement:
The child’s age and emotional needs
Each parent’s living situation
The child’s established living pattern (school, home, community)
The willingness of each parent to foster a relationship between the child and the other parent
Any history of domestic violence, whether directed against or witnessed by the child
Each parent’s moral fitness
Each parent’s mental and physical health
The child’s preference, if the court deems the child of sufficient age and maturity to express a meaningful preference
The distance between the parents' residences
The court may also consider any other factor relevant to the child’s well-being and stability
Parents should present thorough and compelling evidence during court proceedings to achieve favorable parenting time arrangements. If you need assistance with this, Attorney John Bailey can help.
Can Parents Agree On Parenting Time Themselves?
Yes, parents can mutually agree on a parenting time schedule. Such agreements should be formalized in writing and submitted to the court for approval to ensure they align with the child’s best interests and comply with legal standards. While informal agreements could work, having a legally binding schedule provides a clear framework and minimizes future disputes. Attorney John Bailey supports collaborative arrangements as they often lead to more amicable co-parenting relationships and helps parents reach an agreement without court intervention to minimize costs and stress.
Modification of Parenting Time
Changes in circumstances, such as relocation or major changes in the child's needs, may necessitate modifications to the parenting time arrangement. Courts require substantial evidence to justify any alterations, prioritizing the child’s best interests. Modifying parenting time requires demonstrating a change in circumstances that justifies revisiting the original agreement. You might want to work with a Michigan parenting time attorney to ensure modifications are made in compliance with state law and continue to serve the child’s best interests.
Enforcement of Parenting Time
When one parent fails to comply with the agreed-upon schedule, the other parent can seek enforcement. To initiate the enforcement process, one parent needs to file a written complaint with the court and, if necessary, attend a court hearing. At this hearing, the non-compliant parent may be held in contempt of court and face penalties.
Why Do You Need a Parenting Time Attorney?
Hiring a parenting time attorney like John Bailey can offer numerous advantages:
In-depth understanding of family law
Skillful negotiation of fair parenting time arrangements
Experience in court proceedings and litigation
Ability to manage emotionally charged situations
Guidance in modifying or enforcing existing orders
Assurance of compliance with Michigan laws
Attorney John Bailey’s extensive experience ensures clients receive the support necessary to effectively manage parenting time issues.
Why Choose The Law Offices of John R. Bailey?
The Law Offices of John R. Bailey has had tremendous success in achieving positive child custody outcomes for both mothers and fathers in Michigan. Here’s why clients trust the guidance of Attorney John Bailey:
Over 30 years of experience in family law
Comprehensive knowledge of local courts and judges in Ypsilanti and Southeast Michigan
Commitment to personalized service tailored to each client’s unique needs
A proven track record of success in resolving complex parenting time disputes, which is evident from the law firm’s testimonials
Dedicated negotiation skills combined with a passion for litigation
A free, 30-minute consultation to discuss your case and explore your options
For reliable legal assistance with parenting time issues, contact Attorney John Bailey. With deep knowledge and extensive experience, he provides the support and advocacy you need for your family’s well-being.