At My Firm, I Promote Healthy Parent-Child Relationships
The relationship between a parent and their child is like no other. At the Livonia Law Offices of Jeanne M. Frazee, I represent parents just like you who have their child’s best interests at heart. I understand your worries and concerns. Your child’s well-being is your priority, and I can help you establish healthy boundaries for your child through clear custody and parenting time agreements.
When you come into my office, you know you are in good hands. I am attorney Jeanne Frazee. I help families resolve complex and emotional legal issues. I have more than 30 years of experience in family law. Ask me how I can help you create a stable and civil custody and visitation agreement.
I Take Your Family’s Needs Into Account
Every custody and parenting time agreement is as unique as the family that needs it. I provide comprehensive legal care and down-to-earth advice. This includes developing a co-parenting plan that works and updating that plan as necessary. I can help you identify a practical solution to your needs by asking questions like:
- What are your and your co-parent’s work schedules? Is there an available caregiver during these hours?
- Does your child participate in after-school activities or sports? What travel and event commitments are involved?
- Do you or the co-parent have religious obligations during the holidays? If so, what schedule would best accommodate these needs?
Your child’s safety is always the first issue to address. If you are concerned that your co-parent is putting your child at risk of harm, I urge you to say something immediately.
How Is Child Custody Determined In Court?
The court uses the standard of the best interests of the child. Michigan law has several factors the judge must consider. These factors include:
- Each parent’s relationship with the child
- The capacity of each parent to provide food, clothing and medical care
- Mental illness, addiction or domestic abuse
- The child’s involvement in school and community activities
I help you present a strong case for your child’s best interests.
What Factors Influence The Decision On Parenting Time?
Parenting time is often called visitation. The court determines parenting time based on the child’s best interests – the same standard used for custody. The court considers:
- Each parent’s work schedule
- The distance between the homes
- The child’s school schedule
- The willingness of each parent to cooperate with the other
- Each parent’s relationship with the child
I work to create a parenting time plan that works for you and your child.
Can A Custody Agreement Be Modified After It’s Been Established?
Often, yes. You can change a custody agreement under certain conditions. If you and the child’s other parent agree, you can make the changes together. If not, you must show a change in life circumstances that affects the child. Examples include relocation, a job change or the presence of substance abuse.
What Is The Legal Standard For Requesting A Modification Of Child Custody?
You must show a proper cause or a significant change in your life circumstances. The change must affect the child. If you show this, the court will then consider modifying an existing custody order. As your attorney, I will assess if your situation meets this standard.
What Do Courts Look For When Deciding If A Child Custody Order Can Be Changed?
Courts want to see stability for the child. They look for a compelling reason to change the order. This reason must affect the child’s safety or development. For example, a parent’s substance abuse is a compelling reason. A significant change in the child’s school needs may be another.
What Evidence Do You Need To Provide To Change An Existing Child Custody Arrangement?
You need evidence of the change in circumstances demonstrating that the current order is no longer appropriate. This can include school records, employment contracts or medical documents. Testimony from teachers or doctors may sometimes be helpful.
Work With An Experienced Michigan Family Law Lawyer
Based in Livonia, I serve families across southwest Michigan and throughout the metropolitan Detroit region. For a consultation, call my office at 734-234-1868 or contact me online.