Helping People Find Workable Solutions To Parenting Time And Visitation Matters
As a parent, you love your kids more than anything, and that love for them doesn’t change after divorce. However, you may encounter some unique challenges in sharing time with your kids now that you and your spouse aren’t married.
As a dedicated family law attorney, I understand that reaching an agreement with your ex on these matters isn’t easy. I’m Jessica Lashier, and I can help you create a parenting schedule and plan that works for you and your kids at my law firm, Lashier Law, PLLC. With my over 14 years of experience and diplomatic approach to family disputes, finding a workable solution for everyone in the family is possible.
How Parenting Time Typically Works In Michigan
In Michigan, parenting time, also known as visitation, exists to help children maintain a strong and healthy bond with both parents after the divorce. When evaluating how much time the kids should have with each parent, state family law courts often look at what’s in the kids’ best interests, including:
- The kids’ specific needs
- The parents’ work schedules
- The kids’ schooling and extracurricular activities
- The physical and mental stability of each parent
- The financial stability of each parent
What your parenting schedule could look like can depend on many of these factors.
My Approach To Parenting Plans And Schedules
When creating parenting plans and schedules, a calm, thoughtful and intentional approach can help both parties and their children reach a fair outcome. When parents and their legal team take an aggressive, scorched-earth approach, I’ve noticed it can cause both parties to leave the negotiating table feeling angry, resentful and dissatisfied. As my client, I want to know what is best for you and make this emotional and complicated process easier.
I want to learn more about your current parenting plan and time situation. Call me at 586-219-1984 to discuss practical solutions today.
What I Can Do For You
As your attorney, I primarily focus on achieving a “win-win” resolution whenever possible. Here are a few ways I can assist you:
- Customized parenting plans: I can work with you to develop a parenting plan that fits your family’s specific needs. This includes outlining detailed holidays, vacations, and regular visitation schedules based on your unique needs.
- Mediation and negotiation: I can facilitate productive discussions between you and the other parent so that you can avoid going to court.
- Court representation: While I strive to facilitate a productive conversation and outcome between parents, I understand that not every situation will play out nicely. Suppose you and the other parent still can’t reach a satisfactory resolution. In that case, I am ready to take things to court and advocate for your interests.
- Modifications: Life can change overnight. When those changes occur, I can help you modify your existing parenting schedule to adapt to your new circumstances and ensure that your kids’ well-being is at the forefront of every decision.
I work with families across Macomb County, and I am proud to be part of this community.
Answering Your Questions About Parenting Time In Michigan
Parenting time disputes can affect your schedule and the stability your kids need after divorce. When a parent does not follow an order, you should base the next step on the order, the facts and your kids’ best interests. A steady plan can help you avoid rushed choices during an emotional situation.
Here, I have answered some frequently asked questions to address issues that can come up when parenting time becomes difficult.
Can a parent deny parenting time in Michigan?
In most cases, a parent should not deny court-ordered parenting time because of unpaid support or anger or a disagreement with the other parent. Parenting time is part of a court order, and both parents must follow it unless the court changes it or a serious safety concern requires immediate action. If you believe your kids may not be safe, respond carefully. I can help you review the order and decide whether you may need court action.
What happens if my ex won’t let me see my child?
If your ex will not let you see your child during parenting time, keep clear records. Save messages, write down missed visits, note late exchanges and keep any explanation the other parent gives because those details can help show whether the issue happened once or has become a pattern. You may be able to ask the Friend of the Court or the court to enforce the order. I can help you understand which option fits your situation and work toward a practical solution. That steady approach can reduce conflict while protecting your parenting time.
Do I have to follow the court order exactly?
You should follow the court order as written unless you and the other parent have a clear agreement or the court changes the order. Even when both parents are flexible, the written order controls if a disagreement happens later. If the schedule no longer works because of a change in employment, school, distance or your kids’ changing needs, a modification may be appropriate. I can help you look at whether the plan still serves your family and whether a formal change would prevent more conflict.
Can my child choose which parent to live with?
A child’s wishes can carry weight in Michigan, but the court still decides where the child will live. The court may consider a child’s reasonable preference if the child is old enough and mature enough to express one. That preference is only one part of the larger best-interests review, and I can help you handle this issue without putting your child in the middle. The goal is clarity, not pressure.
A Divorce Doesn’t Need To Ruin Your Relationship With Your Kids
Divorce is challenging for everyone in a family. And while it can come with challenges, it doesn’t have to drive a wedge between you, your kids, or your ex. By taking a diplomatic approach to parenting time, you can find harmony and focus on being the parent your kids need you to be. As the sole attorney at Lashier Law, PLLC, I am here and ready to help guide you on this journey.
You can schedule an initial consultation today by calling 586-219-1984 or by using my online scheduling page. I look forward to speaking with you.