● Did you know that a custodial parent who has custody is in physical danger can move more than 100 miles away to some safe place in Michigan with minor children?
This is an exception to the rule that parent cannot move that far away unless first allowed to do so by a Court Order. However, the parent moving may later need a Court determination that such a move was justified.
This is an exception to the rule that parent cannot move that far away unless first allowed to do so by a Court Order. However, the parent moving may later need a Court determination that such a move was justified.
● Did you know that previously the law in Michigan held that only men were to be given custody of minor children in the event of divorce?
Then the law was changed to say a mother was always the parent who should get custody. Finally, in 1970, the law was changed to say custody decisions should be gender blind and that custody decisions should be based on “the best interests of the child” philosophy.
● Did you know that in deciding custody or parenting time orders, the Court’s decision should keep in mind that it is in the “best interests” of a child to have a strong relationship with both of his or her parents?
● Did you know that after the divorce is final, if you and your former spouse cannot agree on day-to-day decisions for your minor children that it is strongly recommended you seek the help or assistance of parenting coordinators or parenting facilitators?
With both parents’ consent, the Court can appoint one. This way the time and expense of going to Court and hiring lawyers can be avoided. The coordinator can help with making decisions immediately by email, texts or phone calls. Coordinator’s approval by the Court must be neutral and must contain standards and have training.
● Did you know certain legal documents can be signed electronically and filed electronically?
● Did you know that parties to an action for divorce or legal separation may file with the Court a Stipulation to receive documents by email or text message in PDF format or other formats that prevent edits or alteration of document contents.
● Did you know that in December, 2017, Congress passed a new law effective for divorces entered after January 1, 2019, that alimony/spousal support is no longer tax deductible. The parties receiving alimony/spousal support does not have to pay tax on the money received. See Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2019.
● Did you know that non-custodial parents cannot be denied access to school, medical or dental records of a minor child and must be able to obtain records or information about school meetings and advance notice of medical appointments?