Parenting time is the schedule that outlines when each parent spends time with their child after a divorce. In Michigan, parenting time is separate from child custody. While child custody determines who has the legal authority to make important decisions for a child and where the child primarily lives, parenting time establishes when and for how long the child will be with each parent. A parenting time order provides structure and consistency while helping children maintain meaningful relationships with both parents.
Michigan courts generally encourage children to have frequent and continuing contact with both parents as long as it is in the child’s best interests. Whether parents reach an agreement on their own or the court must establish a schedule, the goal is to create a parenting time arrangement that supports the child’s well-being, promotes stability, and encourages healthy parent-child relationships after divorce.
How Parenting Time Is Decided
Whenever possible, Michigan courts encourage parents to work together to create a parenting plan that meets their child’s needs and fits each parent’s schedule. If parents cannot reach an agreement during or after a divorce, the court will establish a parenting time schedule based on what serves the child’s best interests. Judges consider a variety of factors, including the child’s age, each parent’s relationship with the child and the family’s unique circumstances.
There are no two parenting schedules that are alike. Depending on the situation, parenting time may include alternating weekends, shared parenting arrangements, holidays, school breaks and summer vacations. If disagreements arise, the Friend of the Court may assist by investigating the matter, making recommendations or helping parents resolve disputes. The court’s ultimate goal is to establish a parenting time schedule that promotes stability while supporting the child’s relationship with both parents whenever possible.
Can Parenting Time Be Changed After Divorce?
A parenting time order is not necessarily permanent. As children grow and family circumstances change, it may become necessary to modify the existing schedule. Michigan courts may approve changes when there has been a significant change in circumstances and the proposed modification is still within the child’s best interests. There are several common reasons for requesting a modification, which include changes such as a parent’s relocation, changes in work schedules, a child’s educational or extracurricular commitments or evolving developmental needs.
Although parents may occasionally agree to make temporary scheduling adjustments, long-term changes should be formally approved by the court. An updated court order helps prevent misunderstandings, protects both parents’ rights and ensures the parenting arrangement remains legally enforceable. Seeking a formal modification can provide greater stability for both parents and children while reducing the likelihood of future disputes.
Protecting Your Parenting Time Rights
If a former spouse repeatedly refuses to follow the parenting time order or interferes with scheduled parenting time, there are legal options available to enforce parenting rights. Depending on the circumstances, the Friend of the Court may help resolve the dispute, investigate alleged violations or recommend enforcement measures. In more serious cases, the court may order make-up parenting time or impose other penalties for failing to comply with the parenting time order.
When disagreements cannot be resolved through communication, it is important to seek legal guidance before the situation escalates. An experienced Michigan family law attorney can help protect parental rights, pursue enforcement of an existing order or request a modification when circumstances have changed. This ensures the best possible outcome both for the parents as well as the best interests of the children involved.
