I filed a Motion to change parenting time and the Referee said I did not meet the “threshold” pursuant to Vodvarka and Shade. What does this mean?

 Answer:  Vodvarka and Shade are the names of two Michigan Court Of Appeals opinions that set the standards for when custody and parenting time can be reviewed. When you file a Motion to modify custody or parenting time the Court must first determine if there has been a change in circumstances since the entry of… Read More »

I filed a Motion regarding Child Support. Why is the Friend of the Court handling this and not the Judge?

Answer:  I get asked often about the process for hearing Motions in Livingston County. When someone files a Motion that has to do with Custody, Parenting Time or Support, the Judge assigns the case to be heard by a FOC Referee. The Referee first conducts a Screening Hearing. At the Screening Hearing the Referee attempts… Read More »

Legal Planning for Young Adults

Question:  My son is leaving for college in a couple weeks.  Is there any specific legal planning he needs now that he is 18 years old?   Answer:  Yes.  Your son is now a “legal adult” under Michigan law. You can’t make financial or medical decisions automatically for him anymore.  Also, you can’t access his… Read More »

Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Team MTO

Our office and families participated in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s on September 30, 2017. We had a great time walking to support a great cause that affects so many people. The walk generated over $100,000.00 towards advancing Alzheimer’s support, care, and research. If you have a family member recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it is important… Read More »