Child Custody & Child Support Attorney Serving Kalamazoo, MI
Family attorney providing personalized attention
When you are facing a child custody or child support dispute, I provide a steady hand to guide you through the decisions you have to make. I meet with you one-on-one to identify your needs and concerns and then prepare a strategy to meet your goals. McIntyre Law Office, PC focuses on protecting the interests of every child involved in a divorce.
Fighting for your custody rights
Michigan courts follow the Child Custody Act of 1970 in determining child custody. The guiding factor is what is in the best interests of the child. The court considers several factors:
- Relationship and connection between the child and parents
- Ability of the parent to provide for the child
- Length of time the child lived in a stable home environment
- Reasonable preference of the child
- Mental, physical and moral fitness of the parent
- Willingness of the parents to facilitate a relationship between the child and the noncustodial parent
Family attorneys can help you and your spouse come to an agreement regarding child custody through mediation or collaboration. However, if this is not possible, I walk you through each of the factors the court considers in making its child custody determination and help you understand how they apply to your individual circumstances. It is always my mission to keep the best interests of the child as the top priority.
Types of custody arrangements
Michigan law provides for various custody arrangements. As my client, I work with you to find the best solution for you and your children. A few of the more common options include:
- Sole custody. When a parent is awarded sole custody, it means the parent has decision-making authority for the child, including matters of education, religion and health. The parent with sole custody is also responsible for the daily care of the child.
- Joint custody. In a joint custody arrangement, both parents share the responsibility of making decisions related to the child’s best interests. Most joint custody arrangements also provide that the parents share the physical custody of the child.
- Parenting time. Parenting time is also commonly referred to as visitation. In most cases, the parents reach an agreement setting forth a workable visitation schedule for their circumstances. However, if the parents are unable to agree, the court renders a decision.
Child support payments
There are numerous considerations in determining the appropriate amount of child support to be paid. The court considers both parents’ income, the needs of each child, the number of children, the amount of time the child spends with each parent and other relevant factors. Generally the non-custodial parent pays child support to the parent with sole custody and/or physical custody of the minor child. Child support typically continues until the child is 18 years of age and has graduated from high school. If the child remains in high school, support may extend until the child is 19 ½ years old.
Obtain trustworthy and dependable family law advice
If you are facing child custody or visitation issues in your divorce, or want information on mediation contact McIntyre Law Office, PC at 269-459-1400 or online to schedule your appointment. The office is conveniently located in Kalamazoo, MI, with public transportation nearby.
