Protect Your Best Interests. Call 989-546-4280 Today

Hall & Bolles, PC
989-546-4280
Attorneys Ready To Resolve Your Legal Problems
Thomas W. Hall Jr. and Becky J. Bolles

Mount Pleasant Child Custody Lawyers

Protecting your child’s best interest is the main goal of our family law attorneys at Hall & Bolles, P.C., in Central Michigan. It is critical to have an experienced lawyer in your corner to guide you through the child custody decisions you will have to make. We have been helping Michigan residents with their legal issues since 1984, and we will help you as well.

We take an empathetic and practical approach to child custody, ensuring we understand your goals and concerns in order to provide sound legal guidance. Your rights and your children’s best interests are very important. Contact us today to further discuss your family law options and schedule an initial consultation.

Child Custody In The Central Michigan Area

We handle child custody and other areas of family law that can impact custody decisions, including:

  • Parenting time
  • Child support
  • Alimony/spousal support
  • Property settlements
  • Divorce

Our Mount Pleasant child custody attorneys are strong negotiators and will strive to achieve your goals. If a resolution cannot be made outside of court or through family mediation, we will fight for your rights at trial as well.

Knowledgeable Family Law Representation In Mount Pleasant

You can rely on our child custody lawyers to answer all of your difficult family law questions. We will take the time to listen to you and how you want the case to be resolved, and then explain all of your options to you.

There are many factors that play a part in how a court will decide custody if the parents cannot come to an agreement. Most courts favor equal parenting time but will look to each parent’s economic responsibility, the child’s preference and the child’s relationship with each parent. We will guide you through the entire process to ensure your family is protected.

Frequently Asked Questions About Child Custody

You may worry that this process will completely change your relationship with your child. Below, we answer some of the most common questions parents bring to us.

What is the difference between legal custody and physical custody in Michigan?

Legal custody gives a parent the authority to make important decisions about a child’s upbringing, including education, healthcare and religious training. Michigan courts may award sole legal custody to one parent or joint legal custody to both parents.

Physical custody determines where the child primarily resides and who provides day-to-day care. A parent with primary physical custody provides the child’s main home, while the other parent generally receives scheduled parenting time to maintain a meaningful relationship with the child.

How do Michigan courts determine the best interests of the child in custody cases?

Michigan law requires courts to weigh specific factors before reaching any custody decision. Those factors generally include:

  • The emotional bond between the child and each parent
  • Each parent’s ability to provide love, guidance and stability
  • The child’s adjustment to home, school and community
  • The length of time the child has lived in a stable setting
  • The child’s reasonable preference based on age and maturity
  • Each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent

Michigan law requires courts to evaluate all relevant factors, including those listed above.

Can a child custody order be modified in Michigan?

Yes, Michigan courts can modify a custody order when proper cause exists or a change of circumstances arises after the original order is issued. Common situations include:

  • Relocation: A parent’s planned move disrupts the existing custody schedule
  • Schedule changes: A new work schedule reduces a parent’s availability to care for the child
  • Health concerns: A medical condition significantly affects the current arrangement
  • Safety issues: Concerns arise about the child’s well-being in the current environment
  • Child’s preference: An older child expresses a clear and reasonable preference about custody

Our attorneys at Hall & Bolles, P.C., can help you determine whether your situation meets the standard for a modification.

Call Hall & Bolles, P.C., To Speak With A Mount Pleasant Child Custody Attorney

We want you to understand the law and all available options so that you can make the best possible personal and financial decisions for your child. Contact us now at 989-546-4280 to set up an initial consultation.