What Does A Family Law At…

Family law deals with legal aspects affecting the family, often including but not limited to the following:

  • Divorce
  • Custody
  • Spousal support
  • Paternity action
  • Parenting time
  • Property division
  • Adoption
  • Guardianship
  • Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
  • Post-judgment modification

Divorce

A divorce is the dissolution of a marriage contract. Long-term marriages with minor children and considerable property typically result in a complicated and time-consuming divorce. The process will likely be less costly and quicker for newly-married couples, and couples willing to negotiate terms such as spousal support, child custody, property division, and debt allocation.

Child custody

Determining which parent receives child custody can be challenging for all parties involved. If the parties do not agree the court considers many factors when deciding custody, including what parent appears to have the greatest bond with the child or children; if there has been any criminal activity in the home; the stability of the home; and more.

Spousal support

Couples filing for divorce in Michigan may wonder what financial obligations may be set in place after the divorce process is complete. Michigan does grant spousal support, also called alimony, in certain situations. When determining what type of spousal support to award an individual, a judge might consider the couple’s age and health; ability to work; financial situation; prior standard of living; past conduct; contributions to the estate; and other types of equity.

Child support

Child support, the payment of money for a child that is ordered by the circuit court, may include payment of child care expenses, health care, educational costs, and more. Support may be part of a court order in a divorce, paternity action or child custody types of proceedings.

Paternity action

When a child is born to unmarried parents, a paternity issue may arise. A paternity lawsuit may be used to establish the rights of either parent and establish a child support obligation.

Other legal services

Family law attorneys also offer services related to parenting time, adoption, and guardianship; prenuptial and postnuptial agreements; and more. To speak to a family law attorney, please call 586-726-1000 or visit our website.

Categories: Family Law