Trusted Parenting Time Lawyer Representing Portage Parents
Often, the most sensitive aspect of a divorce is resolving which parent the children are with on a daily basis. Tensions can run high, and the experience can be exhausting for both parents and children.
You need an experienced child custody attorney who understands the specifics of state, county and local guidelines and procedures. My name is Joseph W. Vander Horst, and I understand the way child custody, support and parenting time matters are handled differently in various counties in Michigan.
Comprehensive Services For Legal Issues Related To Children
At my firm, Vander Horst Law Office PC, I assist clients from southwest Michigan communities every day in all matters related to child custody, visitation, support and parenting time, including:
- Parenting time schedules
- Child custody and support modifications
- Fathers’ rights
- Paternity determinations
In addition, I offer help with the following support-related issues:
- Child support guidelines
- Child support enforcement
- Child support recovery
Let me help protect your parental rights and your children’s best interests. Reach out online to discuss your custody and support concerns.
Positively Influencing Parenting Plan Arrangements
If you are working through a divorce or paternity suit, you may be worried about how custody will be determined and whether you will be able to spend time with your children.
The way child custody, support and visitation rights are handled in southwest Michigan is unique. Unlike most states where the judge is the primary decision-maker regarding custody arrangements, in Michigan, the process is driven by nearly everyone else. Attorneys, psychologists, social workers, parents and children all have a hand in helping to decide who the custodial parent will be.
If you are making child custody arrangements, it is important to find an attorney who understands the specifics of the state and local guidelines and has experience working with them. That is exactly what you can expect from me as an attorney. With over 30 years of experience, I have the skill needed to carefully guide clients through this process.
Parenting Plans
Parenting plans are necessary for determining who will have custody of the children, who will make day-to-day decisions and who will make decisions regarding health care, education and religion. I help my clients understand the differences between legal and physical custody, and I create a plan that focuses on the best interests of their child.
I work with both men and women to resolve all family law matters.
Understanding Factors Of Visitation
Although divorce reflects a change in the relationship between parents, it should not negatively impact a parent’s relationship with their children. Michigan courts consider several key factors when determining visitation schedules:
- Child’s age and developmental needs
- Each parent’s work schedule and availability
- Distance between parents’ homes
- Child’s school and activity schedule
- Child’s established routine
- Each parent’s ability to provide care
- History of parental involvement
- Child’s relationship with siblings
A good visitation schedule or parenting plan is necessary for parents to maintain or build good relationships with their children. I take the time to listen to our clients’ concerns and build visitation schedules that reflect their needs. Let me help you create a visitation plan that works for both you and your children.
Want A Fair Visitation Schedule? Let’s Make It Happen.
Don’t let custody issues strain your relationship with your children. As your dedicated family law attorney at Vander Horst Law Office PC, I’ll help create a visitation plan that works for both you and your children from Portage or Kalamazoo County. Call 269-348-7109 today for a free consultation to protect your parental rights.