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How do the Michigan courts make custody decisions?

On Behalf of | Aug 11, 2021 | Uncategorized

Some parents have no trouble sharing custody. They agree before they get married that a 50/50 split would be the best approach if they end their relationship later. Divorce then largely becomes a technical process, rather than a confrontational one.

However, many couples don’t agree about how to split custody. Sometimes, one parent wants to cut their ex out of the family to punish them for marital misconduct. Other times, the divorce is the result of some kind of instability, like drug addiction or abuse, which makes a parent worried about the safety of their children in a shared custody arrangement.

When parents can’t reach a settlement and file an uncontested divorce, they have to litigate their custody proceedings. What influences how a judge splits custody in Michigan?

The judge has to act to protect the children and their relationships

When trying to make a custody decision, the most important factor for the judge in the Michigan divorce should be what is in the best interests of the children. Trying to determine what will be in a child’s best interests requires careful review of the family situation.

A parent should have a stable lifestyle and an emotional bond with the child. They should be able to provide the necessities of life and to support the child as they continue to grow. For most families, keeping both parents involved is what is best for the children. Even parents who struggle with responsibilities will eventually learn what they have to do for their kids and step up as parents.

However, in situations where one parent is abusive, addicted or frequently negligent, the courts may agree that giving one parent sole custody is best for the children.

What kind of evidence can you use in a child custody case?

If you want to secure sole custody of your children or fight back against your ex’s request for sole custody, you need convincing evidence that will sway the decisions of the judge presiding over your divorce.

Testimony from parents, children, teachers, medical professionals and therapists can help a judge understand the family’s dynamic. School records, police reports and medical records, as well as social media posts, emails and text messages could also all play a role in modern custody proceedings.

Talking about your custody goals in death can help you determine the right approach to take in your upcoming divorce.