This topic matters because many parents feel uncertain about who will get custody of their children. People sometimes believe the courts will always favor one parent. In reality, courts look at what is right for the child. This blog will explain why, and how to prepare.
How Do Courts Decide Child Custody?
Overview: When a judge reviews a custody case, they look for many clues about the child’s situation. Judges often focus on the child’s day-to-day environment, the child’s ties to each parent, and how well each parent can provide stability. They also check if either parent has neglected important duties.
Why It Matters: In Michigan, the judge does not rely on gender to pick the “better” parent. Instead, the court checks who has been more involved and who will be able to care for the child long-term. This perspective often surprises people who assume one parent always wins.
- They examine each parent’s home environment
- They look at school or daycare stability
- They consider medical or emotional needs
- They review how well parents communicate
- They see if the child has a preference
- They note if there is any proven abuse
Real-Life Example: A father in Lansing worried he had no chance because he worked full-time. He took steps to show he could still be a stable caregiver. He learned his child’s schedule, spoke with teachers, and showed proof of involvement. The judge rewarded his efforts with shared custody.
Why Is “Best Interests of the Child” Important?
Core Idea: Best interests are the guiding principle in every custody case. Courts want to see children in a healthy, supportive home. They do not pick favorites based on gender. They check who keeps the child safe and nurtured.
Practical Impact: To show you serve the child’s best interests, gather evidence of your consistent presence. Keep records of doctor visits, playdates, and school events. Simple proof can make a difference in court.
- Stay involved in homework and school meetings
- Keep a log of daily routines
- Maintain good communication with the other parent
- Document your child’s personal needs
- Show you can manage any medical issues
- Provide a caring and stable home setup
Real-Life Example: A mother in Grand Rapids worried about custody because she was unemployed. She showed she was dedicated to her child by attending every parent-teacher conference, scheduling doctor checkups, and maintaining a safe home environment. The court recognized these positive steps.
What Did Attorney Akiva Goldman Emphasize?
Key Points: In our main video, which you can watch here (Child Custody in Michigan), Attorney Akiva Goldman explains how courts in Michigan no longer favor just one parent by default. They base decisions on a thorough investigation of both parents’ capabilities.
Advice: He also points out that knowledge of your child’s life is vital. Know the pediatrician’s name, and any allergies, and be present at school events. Lack of involvement can hurt your case.
- Learn the child’s medical history
- Attend parent-teacher meetings
- Build a strong routine at home
- Ask about your child’s favorite hobbies
- Keep track of sports or club activities
- Never assume the other parent has the advantage
Real-Life Example: A dad from Detroit rarely went to doctor visits. After watching the video, he started taking his child to checkups, kept medication records, and cooperated with the mother. His new involvement improved his standing.
Does Gender Still Affect Custody Outcomes?
Myth-Busting: Many parents think mothers always get custody. This is not automatic in Michigan. The transcript from Akiva Goldman’s office says that was more common decades ago, but modern courts focus on the child’s best interests, not on old stereotypes.
Modern Reality: If a father can show he is stable, responsible, and present, he can get custody. The same goes for a mother who meets the child’s needs. The key is involvement, planning, and proof of care.
- Bring proof of your involvement in daily tasks
- Do not rely on stereotypes to guide your case
- Show the judge you meet emotional and physical needs
- Stay child-focused when dealing with the other parent
- Be open to co-parenting if possible
- Demonstrate reliability with consistent visits
Real-Life Example: A father from Flint worried about bias in the system. He connected with a Michigan child custody lawyer who gathered evidence of his daily tasks (bathing, feeding, reading stories). The court granted him significant parenting time.
How Can You Improve Your Custody Chances?
Action Steps: Research your child’s needs. Be the parent who attends school events, doctors’ appointments, and has open communication with the child’s teachers. Courts are impressed by the consistent effort, not just last-minute changes.
Documentation: Keep organized notes. Write down important details about your child’s routine, special health requirements, and social life. This helps you make a clear case before the judge.
- Use a calendar to log daily tasks
- Track any unusual child behavior
- Record each time you spend with the child
- Share important updates with the other parent
- Attend sports, concerts, or extracurricular events
- Keep receipts for child-related expenses
Real-Life Example: A mother in Kalamazoo built a calendar that showed every day she cared for her child. She included notes on doctor visits and school projects. When her ex claimed she was uninvolved, her calendar proved him wrong.