Residents of Livonia and other parts of Michigan may want to learn more about the enforcing of parenting time orders. Under the laws of the state, it is in the best interests of the child to have a strong relationship with both parents.
The most common arrangement is liberal or reasonable parenting time, which allows flexibility. On the other hand, specific parenting time has places or conditions that are set. When parents don’t agree on an arrangement or don’t follow one that they agreed on, the state may provide assistance.
“Friend of court” services
Because it is in the best interests of the child to spend time with both parents, the friend of the court office can help the parents reach an agreement within their county. The office can also enforce a court order.
Domestic relations mediation may help
The resolution of disputes regarding parenting time may help increase communication and cooperation. This may take the place of court proceedings or trial when deciding on parenting time. Agreements must then be in writing. This is voluntary by the parents and allows for the friend of the court to settle disputes.
What happens when there is a violation?
The alleging of a violation of a parenting time order begins with a written complaint that states the specific facts. The friend of the court must also, if asked, assist a party in the preparation of a written complaint regarding parenting time. Once the friend of court office receives the complaint, they will do the following:
- Apply a make-up parenting time policy
- Schedule a hearing for contempt
- Schedule a hearing with the parents
The friend of court office must do at least one of the above. Their help allows the best interests of the child to be the foremost consideration.
