When your relationship with your child is at stake, nothing matters more. As a Southfield custody & visitation lawyer with over 50 years of experience, I represent parents and grandparents throughout Oakland County who are dealing with custody disputes and parenting time issues.

From my office in Southfield, I work with families in Royal Oak, Birmingham, Farmington Hills, West Bloomfield, and surrounding communities. I understand how local courts approach custody decisions — and how important it is to present your case clearly and effectively.

How Is Child Custody Decided in Michigan?

Michigan courts focus on one standard: the “best interests of the child.” This means the judge looks at a number of factors to determine what arrangement will best support the child’s well-being.

These factors can include:

• The emotional ties between parent and child
• Each parent’s ability to provide care and stability
• The child’s home, school, and community environment
• The mental and physical health of each parent
• Each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent

As a child custody attorney, I help you understand how these factors apply to your situation and build a strong case based on real evidence.

What Is the Difference Between Custody and Parenting Time?

Custody in Michigan is divided into two parts:

• Legal custody — who makes major decisions about the child’s upbringing (education, medical care, etc.)
• Physical custody — where the child primarily lives

Parenting time (sometimes called visitation) refers to the schedule that allows each parent to spend time with the child.

Even if you are not seeking primary custody, it is critical to protect your parenting time rights from the start.

Why Custody Decisions Matter Long-Term

Many parents underestimate how much a custody decision can affect their future. Once an order is in place, it can be difficult to change.

In some cases, the custodial parent may be allowed to move — even out of state — which can significantly impact your ability to see your child. Strong representation early in the process can help create a custody and parenting time arrangement that protects your relationship long-term.

As a family law & custody lawyer Oakland County clients rely on, I focus on building agreements and court orders that are realistic, enforceable, and designed to last.

Handling Complex and Contested Custody Cases

Not all custody matters are straightforward. I have extensive experience handling complex and contested custody cases, including:

• High-conflict custody disputes
• Interstate custody and relocation issues
• Cases involving grandparents’ rights
• Situations requiring expert testimony

In some cases, it may be necessary to involve professionals such as psychologists or other experts to help the court understand what arrangement is truly in the child’s best interests. I am experienced in working with these experts and presenting their findings effectively.

Negotiation When Possible — Trial When Necessary

Many custody cases can be resolved through negotiation, which allows parents to maintain more control over the outcome. However, when an agreement cannot be reached, I am fully prepared to take your case to trial.

As a Southfield custody & visitation lawyer, I approach every case with the understanding that your relationship with your child is worth protecting — and worth fighting for when necessary.

Choosing the Right Attorney Matters

Custody cases are not something you get a second chance at easily. Mistakes made early can be difficult — sometimes impossible — to fix later.

That is why it is important to work with a child custody attorney who understands both the legal process and what is truly at stake. I provide straightforward advice, careful preparation, and strong advocacy every step of the way.

Talk to a Southfield Custody Lawyer Today

If you are facing a custody dispute or want to protect your parenting time, I offer free consultations to help you understand your options.

Call (248) 763-6014 or visit 19390 West Ten Mile Road in Southfield, Michigan to get started.