Aerial view of the Michigan State Capitol building in Lansing, Michigan.

Child Custody

Retired U.S. Army Colonel • Trial-Tested • Thousands of Cases in Mid-Michigan

"I represent clients the same way I served in the Army—prepared, disciplined, and committed to protecting what matters most."

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Child Custody Attorney in Okemos, MI

Few things in life feel more urgent than the possibility of losing time with your children. A child custody dispute in Lansing can leave you feeling powerless, especially when you are unsure how the courts will view your situation.

Spickard Law represents parents throughout Ingham County who are determined to maintain a meaningful role in their children’s lives. Contact our office to schedule a consultation with a family law attorney in Lansing who will fight for what is best for your children and family.

Custody Types

Michigan recognizes several forms of custody, and the arrangement the court orders will directly shape your day-to-day life as a parent. The type of custody awarded affects everything from school enrollment to medical decisions, which is why having an attorney who understands the distinctions matters so much. Spickard Law works to position you for the arrangement that best serves both you and your child:

  • Legal Custody: The right to make major decisions about your child’s education, healthcare, and religious upbringing.
  • Physical Custody: Determines where your child lives regularly and how daily care is handled.
  • Sole Custody: One parent receives full legal or physical custody when the court finds the other parent unfit or unable to co-parent effectively.
  • Joint Custody: Depending on the specifics of the arrangement, both parents share decision-making authority, physical time with the child, or both.

How Child Custody Is Decided in Michigan

Michigan courts base every custody determination on the best interests of the child, weighing a detailed set of factors before reaching a decision. Under MCL 722.23, the court must consider each of these factors and explain its findings on the record:

  • The love and emotional bond between the child and each parent
  • Ability of each parent to provide food, clothing, and medical care
  • Stability and continuity of the existing home environment
  • Moral fitness of each parent
  • Mental and physical health of all parties involved
  • The child’s preference, if they are of sufficient age and maturity
  • Willingness of each parent to encourage a close relationship with the other
  • History of domestic violence or substance abuse
  • Each parent’s involvement in the child’s school and community activities
  • The child’s ties to siblings, extended family, and their neighborhood

Why Choose Spickard Law?

Custody battles demand more than legal knowledge alone. They require an attorney who understands the emotional stakes and prepares your case with the level of detail that Michigan family courts expect:

  • Thorough investigation of the best interest factors
  • Preparation of witnesses
  • Representation at mediation and Friend of the Court proceedings
  • Aggressive advocacy during contested custody hearings
  • Guidance through parenting time disputes
  • Assistance with relocation requests
  • Enforcement of existing custody orders
  • Modifications of existing custody orders
  • Coordination with guardians ad litem when appointed
  • Post-judgment modification petitions

Speak to Our Team Today

Are you worried about losing custody or being shut out of your child’s life? The earlier you get legal guidance, the stronger your position becomes when it is time to face the court. Contact us online or call 517-908-0818 to schedule a consultation with a child custody lawyer in Lansing who will build a case that reflects the parent you truly are.

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