Are you trying to figure out the best way to handle a custody case in Brighton? You might feel unsure about what steps to take next or how the court will handle your situation. Whether you’re starting a new case or thinking about changing an existing order, solid legal advice can make a big difference.
At Eisenberg & Spilman, PLLC, we work with parents across Livingston County and the surrounding areas. Our child custody attorneys serve Brighton and are here to explain your options, prepare your case carefully, and help you stay focused on what matters most: your time with your child.
If you’re ready to talk about your divorce or custody goals, contact us now for your initial consultation.
Michigan law identifies two types of custody: legal and physical. Legal custody gives a parent the right to make important decisions for their child, including choices about their education, medical care, and religion. Physical custody determines where the child lives and who takes care of their day-to-day needs.
Courts can award joint or sole custody. In joint legal custody arrangements, both parents share decision-making responsibilities. In sole legal custody setups, one parent makes those decisions alone. Joint physical custody arrangements involve the child spending time living with both parents. Parents with sole physical custody have their children live with them most or all of the time.
The courts decide on custody based on what works best for the child. In many cases, parents share legal custody, but one gets more time with the child. Every situation is different.
Parenting time is the time each parent spends with their child. Michigan uses this term instead of “visitation.” If parents share joint physical custody, they usually follow a schedule that gives both parents time with the child. The time doesn’t have to be equal, but the court tries to make visitation plans fair.
Sometimes, parents create detailed parenting time schedules that account for weekends, holidays, and school breaks. Other times, they agree to “reasonable parenting time,” which allows more flexibility. If parents can’t agree on when to exchange their children, the court may order a specific schedule.
Judges want both parents involved in the child’s life whenever possible. However, the court may limit or supervise parenting time in some cases. For example, this might be appropriate if safety is a concern. A lawyer can help you create a parenting plan that suits your family’s needs and works for the court.
If parents don’t agree on custody, the court must decide what works best for the child. Michigan law gives judges a list of factors to help them make that decision. These factors include:
Every custody case is different, but most follow the same general process. The following steps help the court learn about your situation, review any disagreements, and make decisions based on what works best for your child:
If you already have a custody order in place and want to change it, you’ll need to follow specific steps. You must first show the court that something major has changed in your life or your child’s life. This change must affect your child’s well-being in a significant way. If you can’t show this kind of significant change, the court won’t even review your request.
If you can show a major change in circumstances, the court will look at whether your child already lives in a stable setup, known as an “established custodial environment.” If they do, you must provide clear and strong evidence that your proposed change would be better for your child. If there’s no established setup, the standard is a little lower, but you’ll still need solid proof to support the modification request.
The courts expect meticulous paperwork and preparation for custody modifications. A lawyer can help you file the right motion and present the strongest possible case to the judge.
Eisenberg & Spilman, PLLC, offers a focused, hands-on approach for every custody case we handle. Attorney Amy Spilman handles many of our firm’s custody matters and knows what matters most to families in Brighton. When you come to us for help, Amy will take time to understand your goals and work hard to protect your role in your child’s life.
Both Amy Spilman and Laura Eisenberg belong to the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), meaning they bring considerable family law experience to the table. Laura often works with professionals like doctors and business owners who need smart, efficient plans that protect both their family time and their careers.
You won’t find any cookie-cutter services here. Our firm gives every client personal attention and charges fair, transparent rates. If you want a team that listens closely, plans carefully, and treats you with respect, Eisenberg & Spilman is here to help.
If you need help with a custody matter in or near Brighton, reach out to Eisenberg & Spilman, PLLC, now. Our attorneys will take the time to understand your goals and give you the personal attention you need. Contact us today for an initial consultation with a child custody lawyer serving Brighton. We will listen to your concerns, plan a strategy to meet your goals, and help you protect your family.