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COO, Divorce.com
michigan
What Is a Parenting Plan in Michigan?
A parenting plan is a written agreement outlining how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children after separation or divorce. In Michigan, parenting plans are required in all cases involving child custody and serve as a roadmap for co-parenting.
The plan covers everything from daily schedules to holiday arrangements to decision-making authority. Once approved by the court, it becomes a legally binding court order that both parents must follow.
Michigan Parenting Plan Requirements
Michigan law requires parents to submit a parenting plan to the court. According to Michigan Compiled Laws § 722.27a, parents must address all aspects of the child's care, custody, and upbringing.
Key Requirements Under Michigan Law:
Mandatory Elements:
Residential schedule showing where child will be at all times
Allocation of parental rights and decision-making responsibilities
Child support payment arrangements
Medical, dental, and vision care provisions
Educational decisions and school arrangements
Holiday, vacation, and special occasion schedules
Transportation and exchange logistics
Best Interest Factors:
Michigan courts evaluate parenting plans based on the child's best interests, considering:
Child's age, developmental needs, and preferences (when age-appropriate)
Each parent's ability to provide stability and meet child's needs
Child's relationship and attachment to each parent and siblings
Parents' demonstrated willingness to cooperate and communicate
Child's adjustment to home, school, and community
Mental and physical health of all family members
History of domestic violence, abuse, or substance issues
Geographic proximity between parents' residences
Each parent's work schedule and availability
What Is a Parenting Plan in Michigan?
A parenting plan is a written agreement outlining how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children after separation or divorce. In Michigan, parenting plans are required in all cases involving child custody and serve as a roadmap for co-parenting.
The plan covers everything from daily schedules to holiday arrangements to decision-making authority. Once approved by the court, it becomes a legally binding court order that both parents must follow.
Michigan Parenting Plan Requirements
Michigan law requires parents to submit a parenting plan to the court. According to Michigan Compiled Laws § 722.27a, parents must address all aspects of the child's care, custody, and upbringing.
Key Requirements Under Michigan Law:
Mandatory Elements:
Residential schedule showing where child will be at all times
Allocation of parental rights and decision-making responsibilities
Child support payment arrangements
Medical, dental, and vision care provisions
Educational decisions and school arrangements
Holiday, vacation, and special occasion schedules
Transportation and exchange logistics
Best Interest Factors:
Michigan courts evaluate parenting plans based on the child's best interests, considering:
Child's age, developmental needs, and preferences (when age-appropriate)
Each parent's ability to provide stability and meet child's needs
Child's relationship and attachment to each parent and siblings
Parents' demonstrated willingness to cooperate and communicate
Child's adjustment to home, school, and community
Mental and physical health of all family members
History of domestic violence, abuse, or substance issues
Geographic proximity between parents' residences
Each parent's work schedule and availability
What Is a Parenting Plan in Michigan?
A parenting plan is a written agreement outlining how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children after separation or divorce. In Michigan, parenting plans are required in all cases involving child custody and serve as a roadmap for co-parenting.
The plan covers everything from daily schedules to holiday arrangements to decision-making authority. Once approved by the court, it becomes a legally binding court order that both parents must follow.
Michigan Parenting Plan Requirements
Michigan law requires parents to submit a parenting plan to the court. According to Michigan Compiled Laws § 722.27a, parents must address all aspects of the child's care, custody, and upbringing.
Key Requirements Under Michigan Law:
Mandatory Elements:
Residential schedule showing where child will be at all times
Allocation of parental rights and decision-making responsibilities
Child support payment arrangements
Medical, dental, and vision care provisions
Educational decisions and school arrangements
Holiday, vacation, and special occasion schedules
Transportation and exchange logistics
Best Interest Factors:
Michigan courts evaluate parenting plans based on the child's best interests, considering:
Child's age, developmental needs, and preferences (when age-appropriate)
Each parent's ability to provide stability and meet child's needs
Child's relationship and attachment to each parent and siblings
Parents' demonstrated willingness to cooperate and communicate
Child's adjustment to home, school, and community
Mental and physical health of all family members
History of domestic violence, abuse, or substance issues
Geographic proximity between parents' residences
Each parent's work schedule and availability
What Is a Parenting Plan in Michigan?
A parenting plan is a written agreement outlining how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children after separation or divorce. In Michigan, parenting plans are required in all cases involving child custody and serve as a roadmap for co-parenting.
The plan covers everything from daily schedules to holiday arrangements to decision-making authority. Once approved by the court, it becomes a legally binding court order that both parents must follow.
Michigan Parenting Plan Requirements
Michigan law requires parents to submit a parenting plan to the court. According to Michigan Compiled Laws § 722.27a, parents must address all aspects of the child's care, custody, and upbringing.
Key Requirements Under Michigan Law:
Mandatory Elements:
Residential schedule showing where child will be at all times
Allocation of parental rights and decision-making responsibilities
Child support payment arrangements
Medical, dental, and vision care provisions
Educational decisions and school arrangements
Holiday, vacation, and special occasion schedules
Transportation and exchange logistics
Best Interest Factors:
Michigan courts evaluate parenting plans based on the child's best interests, considering:
Child's age, developmental needs, and preferences (when age-appropriate)
Each parent's ability to provide stability and meet child's needs
Child's relationship and attachment to each parent and siblings
Parents' demonstrated willingness to cooperate and communicate
Child's adjustment to home, school, and community
Mental and physical health of all family members
History of domestic violence, abuse, or substance issues
Geographic proximity between parents' residences
Each parent's work schedule and availability
What Is a Parenting Plan in Michigan?
A parenting plan is a written agreement outlining how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children after separation or divorce. In Michigan, parenting plans are required in all cases involving child custody and serve as a roadmap for co-parenting.
The plan covers everything from daily schedules to holiday arrangements to decision-making authority. Once approved by the court, it becomes a legally binding court order that both parents must follow.
Michigan Parenting Plan Requirements
Michigan law requires parents to submit a parenting plan to the court. According to Michigan Compiled Laws § 722.27a, parents must address all aspects of the child's care, custody, and upbringing.
Key Requirements Under Michigan Law:
Mandatory Elements:
Residential schedule showing where child will be at all times
Allocation of parental rights and decision-making responsibilities
Child support payment arrangements
Medical, dental, and vision care provisions
Educational decisions and school arrangements
Holiday, vacation, and special occasion schedules
Transportation and exchange logistics
Best Interest Factors:
Michigan courts evaluate parenting plans based on the child's best interests, considering:
Child's age, developmental needs, and preferences (when age-appropriate)
Each parent's ability to provide stability and meet child's needs
Child's relationship and attachment to each parent and siblings
Parents' demonstrated willingness to cooperate and communicate
Child's adjustment to home, school, and community
Mental and physical health of all family members
History of domestic violence, abuse, or substance issues
Geographic proximity between parents' residences
Each parent's work schedule and availability
What Is a Parenting Plan in Michigan?
A parenting plan is a written agreement outlining how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children after separation or divorce. In Michigan, parenting plans are required in all cases involving child custody and serve as a roadmap for co-parenting.
The plan covers everything from daily schedules to holiday arrangements to decision-making authority. Once approved by the court, it becomes a legally binding court order that both parents must follow.
Michigan Parenting Plan Requirements
Michigan law requires parents to submit a parenting plan to the court. According to Michigan Compiled Laws § 722.27a, parents must address all aspects of the child's care, custody, and upbringing.
Key Requirements Under Michigan Law:
Mandatory Elements:
Residential schedule showing where child will be at all times
Allocation of parental rights and decision-making responsibilities
Child support payment arrangements
Medical, dental, and vision care provisions
Educational decisions and school arrangements
Holiday, vacation, and special occasion schedules
Transportation and exchange logistics
Best Interest Factors:
Michigan courts evaluate parenting plans based on the child's best interests, considering:
Child's age, developmental needs, and preferences (when age-appropriate)
Each parent's ability to provide stability and meet child's needs
Child's relationship and attachment to each parent and siblings
Parents' demonstrated willingness to cooperate and communicate
Child's adjustment to home, school, and community
Mental and physical health of all family members
History of domestic violence, abuse, or substance issues
Geographic proximity between parents' residences
Each parent's work schedule and availability
RETAINER FEE
PETITION
COURT FILING FEE
SUMMONS
AFFIDAVIT
MOTIONS
ARGUMENTS
TEMPORARY ORDERS
HEARINGS
SUBPOENAS
DEPOSITIONS
SETTLEMENT
CONFERENCES
JUDGEMENT
TRIAL
APPEALS
What Is a Parenting Plan in Michigan?
A parenting plan is a written agreement outlining how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children after separation or divorce. In Michigan, parenting plans are required in all cases involving child custody and serve as a roadmap for co-parenting.
The plan covers everything from daily schedules to holiday arrangements to decision-making authority. Once approved by the court, it becomes a legally binding court order that both parents must follow.
Michigan Parenting Plan Requirements
Michigan law requires parents to submit a parenting plan to the court. According to Michigan Compiled Laws § 722.27a, parents must address all aspects of the child's care, custody, and upbringing.
Key Requirements Under Michigan Law:
Mandatory Elements:
Residential schedule showing where child will be at all times
Allocation of parental rights and decision-making responsibilities
Child support payment arrangements
Medical, dental, and vision care provisions
Educational decisions and school arrangements
Holiday, vacation, and special occasion schedules
Transportation and exchange logistics
Best Interest Factors:
Michigan courts evaluate parenting plans based on the child's best interests, considering:
Child's age, developmental needs, and preferences (when age-appropriate)
Each parent's ability to provide stability and meet child's needs
Child's relationship and attachment to each parent and siblings
Parents' demonstrated willingness to cooperate and communicate
Child's adjustment to home, school, and community
Mental and physical health of all family members
History of domestic violence, abuse, or substance issues
Geographic proximity between parents' residences
Each parent's work schedule and availability
What Is a Parenting Plan in Michigan?
A parenting plan is a written agreement outlining how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children after separation or divorce. In Michigan, parenting plans are required in all cases involving child custody and serve as a roadmap for co-parenting.
The plan covers everything from daily schedules to holiday arrangements to decision-making authority. Once approved by the court, it becomes a legally binding court order that both parents must follow.
Michigan Parenting Plan Requirements
Michigan law requires parents to submit a parenting plan to the court. According to Michigan Compiled Laws § 722.27a, parents must address all aspects of the child's care, custody, and upbringing.
Key Requirements Under Michigan Law:
Mandatory Elements:
Residential schedule showing where child will be at all times
Allocation of parental rights and decision-making responsibilities
Child support payment arrangements
Medical, dental, and vision care provisions
Educational decisions and school arrangements
Holiday, vacation, and special occasion schedules
Transportation and exchange logistics
Best Interest Factors:
Michigan courts evaluate parenting plans based on the child's best interests, considering:
Child's age, developmental needs, and preferences (when age-appropriate)
Each parent's ability to provide stability and meet child's needs
Child's relationship and attachment to each parent and siblings
Parents' demonstrated willingness to cooperate and communicate
Child's adjustment to home, school, and community
Mental and physical health of all family members
History of domestic violence, abuse, or substance issues
Geographic proximity between parents' residences
Each parent's work schedule and availability
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Antrim County Divorce Guide: Bellaire, Michigan Filing
Arenac County Divorce Guide: Standish, Michigan Filing
Baraga County Divorce Guide: L'Anse, Michigan Filing
Barry County Divorce Guide: Hastings, Michigan Filing
Bay County Divorce Guide: Bay, Michigan Filing
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Berrien County Divorce Guide: St. Joseph, Michigan Filing
Branch County Divorce Guide: Coldwater, Michigan Filing
Calhoun County Divorce Guide: Battle Creek, Michigan Filing
Cass County Divorce Guide: Cassopolis, Michigan Filing
Charlevoix County Divorce Guide: Charlevoix, Michigan Filing
Cheboygan County Divorce Guide: Cheboygan, Michigan Filing
Chippewa County Divorce Guide: Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan Filing
Clare County Divorce Guide: Harrison, Michigan Filing
Clinton County Divorce Guide: St. Johns, Michigan Filing
Crawford County Divorce Guide: Grayling, Michigan Filing
Delta County Divorce Guide: Escanaba, Michigan Filing
Dickinson County Divorce Guide: Iron Mountain, Michigan Filing
Eaton County Divorce Guide: Charlotte, Michigan Filing
Emmet County Divorce Guide: Petoskey, Michigan Filing
Genesee County Divorce Guide: Flint, Michigan Filing
Gladwin County Divorce Guide: Gladwin, Michigan Filing
Gogebic County Divorce Guide: Bessemer, Michigan Filing
Grand Traverse County Divorce Guide: Traverse City, Michigan Filing
Gratiot County Divorce Guide: Ithaca, Michigan Filing
Hillsdale County Divorce Guide: Hillsdale, Michigan Filing
Houghton County Divorce Guide: Houghton, Michigan Filing
Huron County Divorce Guide: Bad Axe, Michigan Filing
Ingham County Divorce Guide: Lansing, Michigan Filing
Ionia County Divorce Guide: Ionia, Michigan Filing
Iosco County Divorce Guide: Tawas City, Michigan Filing
Iron County Divorce Guide: Crystal Falls, Michigan Filing
Isabella County Divorce Guide: Mt. Pleasant, Michigan Filing
Jackson County Divorce Guide: Jackson, Michigan Filing
Kalamazoo County Divorce Guide: Kalamazoo, Michigan Filing
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Keweenaw County Divorce Guide: Eagle River, Michigan Filing
Lake County Divorce Guide: Baldwin, Michigan Filing
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Lenawee County Divorce Guide: Adrian, Michigan Filing
Livingston County Divorce Guide: Howell, Michigan Filing
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Mackinac County Divorce Guide: St. Ignace, Michigan Filing
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Presque Isle County Divorce Guide: Rogers City, Michigan Filing
Roscommon County Divorce Guide: Roscommon, Michigan Filing
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Schoolcraft County Divorce Guide: Manistique, Michigan Filing
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Tuscola County Divorce Guide: Caro, Michigan Filing
Van Buren County Divorce Guide: Paw Paw, Michigan Filing
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Written By:
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What Is a Parenting Plan in Michigan?
A parenting plan is a written agreement outlining how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children after separation or divorce. In Michigan, parenting plans are required in all cases involving child custody and serve as a roadmap for co-parenting.
The plan covers everything from daily schedules to holiday arrangements to decision-making authority. Once approved by the court, it becomes a legally binding court order that both parents must follow.
Michigan Parenting Plan Requirements
Michigan law requires parents to submit a parenting plan to the court. According to Michigan Compiled Laws § 722.27a, parents must address all aspects of the child's care, custody, and upbringing.
Key Requirements Under Michigan Law:
Mandatory Elements:
Residential schedule showing where child will be at all times
Allocation of parental rights and decision-making responsibilities
Child support payment arrangements
Medical, dental, and vision care provisions
Educational decisions and school arrangements
Holiday, vacation, and special occasion schedules
Transportation and exchange logistics
Best Interest Factors:
Michigan courts evaluate parenting plans based on the child's best interests, considering:
Child's age, developmental needs, and preferences (when age-appropriate)
Each parent's ability to provide stability and meet child's needs
Child's relationship and attachment to each parent and siblings
Parents' demonstrated willingness to cooperate and communicate
Child's adjustment to home, school, and community
Mental and physical health of all family members
History of domestic violence, abuse, or substance issues
Geographic proximity between parents' residences
Each parent's work schedule and availability
1. Residential Schedule
School year weekly schedule with specific days/times
Summer schedule variations
Pick-up and drop-off times and locations
Transportation responsibilities
2. Holiday and Special Occasion Schedule
Thanksgiving, Christmas/Hanukkah, Easter
Spring break and winter break
Mother's Day and Father's Day
Child's birthday and parents' birthdays
Other religious or cultural holidays
3. Decision-Making Authority
Legal custody allocation (education, medical, religious decisions)
Joint vs. sole decision-making arrangements
Emergency decision protocols
Dispute resolution for disagreements
4. Communication and Access
Parent-child communication schedule (calls, video chats)
Parent-parent communication methods (email, text, apps)
Response timeframes for urgent vs. non-urgent matters
Information sharing about child's wellbeing, school, activities
5. Child Support
Payment amount and schedule
Healthcare coverage responsibility
Division of unreimbursed medical expenses
Childcare expense allocation
How expenses are documented and reimbursed
6. Healthcare
Selection of primary care physician
Medical appointment scheduling and attendance
Emergency medical decision protocol
Prescription medication management between homes
Health insurance coverage details
7. Education and Childcare
School selection and enrollment decisions
How school information is shared between parents
Parent-teacher conference attendance
Homework responsibilities and support
Daycare provider selection and arrangements
8. Extracurricular Activities
How activities are chosen and approved
Cost sharing arrangements
Transportation to/from activities
Both parents' attendance at events and games
9. Transportation and Exchange
Specific pick-up and drop-off locations
Responsibility allocation for transportation
Neutral exchange locations if needed
Protocols if parent is late
Child safety seat requirements
10. Dispute Resolution
Mediation requirement before returning to court
Mediator selection process
Cost allocation for mediation
Timeline for resolution attempts
Step 1: Understand Your Child's Needs
Consider your child's:
Age and developmental stage
School schedule and location
Extracurricular commitments
Medical or special needs
Relationship with each parent
Siblings' needs and schedules
Step 2: Evaluate Practical Factors
Logistics:
Distance between parents' homes
Work schedules and flexibility
School district boundaries
Transportation availability
Support systems (grandparents, extended family)
Parenting Capacity:
Each parent's availability
Parenting skills and experience
Home environment stability
Ability to meet child's specific needs
Step 3: Draft the Plan
If You Agree:
Discuss and negotiate all terms together
Use state-approved court forms
Ensure both parents sign
Submit to court for approval
If You Disagree:
Each parent drafts their own proposed plan
Submit both plans to court
Attend mediation if required by court
Court decides based on child's best interests
Step 4: Include All Required Information
Use official state forms ensuring:
All mandatory elements included
Specific, detailed schedules (not vague terms)
Clear decision-making allocation
Comprehensive dispute resolution process
Both parents' current contact information
Step 5: Get Court Approval
Filing Process:
Complete parenting plan form
File with family/domestic relations court
Pay required filing fees
Serve other parent if contested
Attend hearing if scheduled
Receive signed court order
RETAINER FEE
PETITION
COURT FILING FEE
SUMMONS
AFFIDAVIT
MOTIONS
ARGUMENTS
TEMPORARY ORDERS
HEARINGS
SUBPOENAS
DEPOSITIONS
SETTLEMENT
CONFERENCES
JUDGEMENT
TRIAL
APPEALS
RETAINER FEE
PETITION
COURT FILING FEE
SUMMONS
AFFIDAVIT
MOTIONS
ARGUMENTS
TEMPORARY ORDERS
HEARINGS
SUBPOENAS
DEPOSITIONS
SETTLEMENT
CONFERENCES
JUDGEMENT
TRIAL
APPEALS
Shared Parenting (Joint Custody)
What It Means:
Both parents share decision-making authority
Significant parenting time with both parents
Requires ongoing cooperation and communication
Flexible, customizable time-sharing arrangements
Benefits:
Both parents remain actively involved
Shared parental responsibility and burden
Often better for children's emotional wellbeing
Can be tailored to family's unique needs
Challenges:
Requires substantial cooperation between parents
More complex logistics and scheduling
Potential for ongoing conflict
May be difficult with high-conflict co-parents
Requires parents living reasonably close
Sole Custody
What It Means:
One parent is primary residential and legal custodian
Other parent typically has visitation/parenting time
One parent makes major decisions independently
Less equal distribution of parenting time
When It's Appropriate:
History of domestic violence or abuse
Substance abuse issues
Parent unable or unwilling to co-parent effectively
Significant geographic distance between homes
One parent has been absent or minimally involved
Mental health concerns affecting parenting ability
When You Can Modify
State law allows modification when there has been:
Material/substantial change in circumstances
Change affecting the child's best interests
Significant change in parent or child's situation
Common Examples of Changes:
Parent relocation to different city or state
Significant change in work schedule
Child's changing needs as they age
Parent remarriage or new household members
Safety concerns or domestic violence
Changes in school enrollment
Development of special needs
Parent's military deployment
How to Modify
If Both Parents Agree:
Draft modified parenting plan together
File motion to modify with court
Submit agreed-upon modification
Attend brief hearing (sometimes waived)
Court issues new order
If Parents Disagree:
File motion to modify with court
Demonstrate substantial change in circumstances
Attend court-ordered mediation
Present evidence at modification hearing
Court decides based on child's best interests
Important: You MUST get court approval for all modifications. Informal agreements between parents don't change the legal order and aren't enforceable.
1. Being Too Vague
Don't Say: "Reasonable visitation" or "Parents will work it out"
Do Say: "Parent B has parenting time every Wednesday 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM and alternating weekends Friday 3:00 PM through Sunday 6:00 PM"
2. Ignoring the Child's Schedule
Always consider:
School start and end times
Extracurricular activity commitments
Homework and study needs
Social activities with peers
Age-appropriate sleep requirements
Travel time between homes
3. Creating an Unrealistic Schedule
Common Issues:
Too many transitions (excessive exchanges)
Unreasonable drive times for young children
Ignoring parents' actual work schedules
Not accounting for traffic patterns
No flexibility built in for life's unpredictability
4. Forgetting Important Details
Don't Forget:
Who claims child as tax dependent (alternating years)
How medical emergencies are handled
Passport custody and travel permissions
Social media and digital privacy rules
Communication with extended family members
Pet custody and care responsibilities
5. Using the Plan as Punishment
Avoid:
Restricting parenting time to spite ex-partner
Using schedule to control former spouse
Creating unnecessary complications
Refusing reasonable schedule requests
Fighting over minor, insignificant issues
Using children as pawns or messengers
6. Not Planning for Growth and Change
Remember:
Infant needs vastly differ from teenager needs
School schedules change as children advance
Extracurricular activities evolve over time
Build in periodic review periods
Allow for age-appropriate modifications
Stay flexible as circumstances change
Michigan-Specific Considerations
Parental Relocation
Under Michigan law, if a parent wants to relocate with the child:
Must provide 100-mile days written notice to other parent
Notice must include new address and reasons for move
Other parent can object within specified timeframe
Court hearing required if relocation is contested
Parenting plan must be modified to accommodate new arrangements
Right of First Refusal
Consider including: "If either parent is unavailable for more than [X] consecutive hours during their scheduled parenting time, they must first offer that time to the other parent before arranging alternative childcare."
Michigan Court Forms
Official Forms:
FOC 10a
Where to Find Forms:
Michigan court website
County clerk's office
Court self-help center
Major Michigan Counties
Primary counties with family courts:
Wayne, Oakland, Macomb
Check your local county court for:
County-specific local rules
Additional form requirements
Mediation program details
Filing fee schedules
Self-help resources
Sample Parenting Plan Schedule
Regular Weekly Schedule
School Year (September - May):
Week 1:
Monday 3:00 PM - Wednesday 8:00 AM: Parent A
Wednesday 3:00 PM - Friday 8:00 AM: Parent B
Friday 3:00 PM - Monday 8:00 AM: Parent A
Week 2:
Monday 3:00 PM - Wednesday 8:00 AM: Parent A
Wednesday 3:00 PM - Friday 8:00 AM: Parent B
Friday 3:00 PM - Monday 8:00 AM: Parent B
Summer Schedule (June - August):
Same weekly pattern continues
Each parent gets 2 weeks consecutive vacation time
Vacation requests must be submitted 60 days in advance
Vacation time supersedes regular schedule
Holiday Schedule
Odd-Numbered Years:
New Year's Day: Parent B (9:00 AM - 9:00 PM)
Easter Sunday: Parent A (9:00 AM - 7:00 PM)
Memorial Day Weekend: Parent B (Friday 3:00 PM - Monday 8:00 AM)
July 4th: Parent A (9:00 AM - 9:00 PM)
Labor Day Weekend: Parent B (Friday 3:00 PM - Monday 8:00 AM)
Thanksgiving: Parent A (Wednesday 3:00 PM - Sunday 6:00 PM)
Christmas Eve: Parent A (10:00 AM - December 25, 10:00 AM)
Christmas Day: Parent B (10:00 AM - December 26, 10:00 AM)
Even-Numbered Years:
Parents alternate from odd-year schedule
Special Days Every Year
Mother's Day: Child with mother (9:00 AM - 7:00 PM)
Father's Day: Child with father (9:00 AM - 7:00 PM)
Child's Birthday:
Parent with regular schedule has child
Other parent gets 2 hours for dinner/celebration
Birthday party hosting alternates annually
Exchange Locations and Times
School Days:
Morning exchanges: At school
Afternoon exchanges: At school or [designated neutral location]
Non-School Days:
Exchanges at: [Neutral public location - library, police station, etc.]
Or at residential parent's home (curbside pickup)
Q: Is mediation required for parenting plans?
A: Many courts require mediation for contested custody cases. Check your local court rules. Even when not legally required, mediation often helps parents reach agreements more efficiently and affordably than litigation.
Q: Can we change our parenting plan without going to court?
A: No. Any changes must be approved by the court to be legally enforceable. Even if both parents agree, you need to file a modification motion and obtain court approval for the changes to be valid.
Q: What happens if one parent violates the parenting plan?
A: The other parent can file a motion for contempt of court. Potential consequences include makeup parenting time, monetary fines, modification of the custody arrangement, or in serious repeated cases, change of primary custody.
Q: How much parenting time does the non-residential parent typically get?
A: There's no standard formula. It varies significantly based on circumstances. Shared parenting arrangements often provide 40-50% time with each parent. Traditional visitation might be alternating weekends plus one weeknight, totaling about 20-30% of time.
Q: Can a child refuse to follow the parenting plan?
A: Generally no. Until age 18 (or age of majority), children must follow court orders. However, courts may consider a mature child's preferences in modification proceedings. Parents should address refusal issues through proper court channels rather than allowing the child to dictate arrangements.
Q: How far apart can parents live?
A: There's typically no specific distance limit, but practical distance affects the feasibility of shared parenting. Long distances may require different arrangements, such as extended summer parenting time instead of weekly exchanges during the school year.
Q: What if parents disagree about medical treatment?
A: Your plan should specify who makes medical decisions. If it's joint decision-making, you need mutual agreement for non-emergency care. For disputes, mediation or court intervention may be necessary. Emergency care can be authorized by whichever parent has the child at the time.
Q: Can grandparents be included in the parenting plan?
A: Yes. You can include provisions for grandparent time and involvement, though it's not required. This can be particularly helpful for families where grandparents provide significant childcare or have especially close relationships with the children.
Creating a comprehensive Michigan parenting plan requires careful consideration and attention to detail. A well-crafted plan provides clarity, reduces conflict between parents, and most importantly, serves your child's best interests now and as they grow.
Key Takeaways:
Be specific and detailed in all provisions
Focus primarily on child's needs and wellbeing
Consider both immediate and long-term circumstances
Build in reasonable flexibility for life changes
Maintain respectful communication with co-parent
Follow the court order once approved
Whether you're working together on a mutually agreed parenting plan or each submitting separate proposals, investing time to create a thorough, thoughtful plan will benefit your entire family for years to come.
A strong parenting plan serves as your family's roadmap through the challenges of co-parenting, providing stability and predictability for your children during a time of significant change.
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