Some parents, to shield their kids from excessive emotional turmoil during divorce, are willing to bargain with their ex when it comes to parenting time, just to ensure that their children’s lives are not disrupted even more than they already have been.
This might seem like a smart move at the time, but it’s important to consider all avenues when it comes to taking care of your kids during and after your Michigan divorce. You don’t want to regret your decisions – and miss out on time with your kids that should rightfully be yours.
The General Parenting Time Schedule
Macomb County maintains a parenting time schedule that is the jumping-off point for developing a personalized parenting time agreement. The general outline for non-custodial parents to have time with their children:
- Every other weekend
- One night a week
- Alternate holidays and birthdays
- Extended time in the summer
Parenting time can be frustrating. You don’t want to be forced to watch the clock with your kids, but if that’s the deal you make, then you must follow it. If you accept the basic formula as set forth by the court, weekend parenting time can be as specific as having the child from 6 p.m. on Friday until 7 p.m. on Sunday during the school year and 8 p.m. during the summer. Weekday parenting time will be one night per week from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on school days and 9 p.m. during the summer.
Figuring Out Your Unique Parenting Time Schedule
What if you child is little enough to have a 7 p.m. bedtime? What if you have a baby that is still nursing? What if there are extracurricular activities that don’t end until after 9 p.m.?
The ages of the children, the work schedule of the parents, the lifestyles that you all lead – these matters are relevant when it comes to determining fair parenting time. You have a lot to consider during your divorce negotiations, and your “freedom” from your marriage may make the rest of your life a little more complicated, especially when children are involved.
Take your time putting together a parenting time plan so it works for you and, especially, for your children. Interim orders that are granted while your divorce is in progress can help you see what’s doable and what’s not ideal when it comes to getting enough time with your kids. Work with a Michigan divorce lawyer who is dedicated to developing a fair and equal parenting time plan for you so you can be part of your child’s life.
Filing a Post-Judgment Action to Change Parenting Time
If you discover that the parenting time terms you agreed to in your original divorce settlement are not working, a post-judgment action can be filed requesting a change. The judge will always rule in the best interests of the child regarding all parenting time and child custody matters, but your Michigan divorce lawyer will guide you best as you figure out what options are open to you and whether you will be successful in your filing.
Life changes during and after divorce and, as your children grow, things will change with their schedule, needs, and education too that might call for a shift in parenting time. Contact Michigan Divorce Help PLLC in Mount Clemens to get answers to all your questions about parenting time in a Michigan divorce.