Michigan Parenting Time and Visitation Laws
By Olivia Wathne, Esq. | Legally reviewed by Catherine Hodder, Esq. | Last reviewed May 19, 2025
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Michigan visitation rights, also known as "parenting time", ensure children maintain strong relationships with both parents after separation or divorce. Courts consider factors like the child's emotional bond with each parent, home stability, and school ties when determining visitation schedules.
As long as the court determines that it's in the best interests of the child, it will ensure that a child has visitation with both the custodial and non-custodial parents. Although Michigan provides model guidelines for determining visitation schedules and terms, not all counties have adopted them. Some may have their own variations.
This article is intended to give you a general overview of how the state of Michigan determines parenting and grandparenting time, common terms and conditions, and other important details.
Michigan Visitation Rights
In Michigan, visitation rights (parenting time) are established within the framework of the custody arrangement determined by the courts. The primary aim is to ensure the well-being of the child, facilitating strong relationships with both parents post-separation or divorce.
Michigan courts assess factors such as the emotional bond between the child and each parent, the stability of the home environment, and the child's ties to their school and community. Visitation schedules are designed to complement the physical custody arrangement, which may be sole physical custody or joint physical custody. It can also include regular overnights and holiday visits.
Parents are encouraged to agree on a visitation plan. If they can't, the court will establish a fair and practical schedule to ensure the child's best interests are met.
Michigan Parenting Time and Visitation Laws: The Basics
You want have more time to visit with your child, which means you probably aren't interested in translating dense legal text. It's important to understand your rights and obligations with respect to parenting time in Michigan, so we've provided the following "plain English" summary of the relevant Michigan laws to help you.
Michigan Parenting Time Statutes |
Michigan Compiled Laws Section 722.27a, et seq. (Child Custody Act of 1970) |
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Michigan Parenting Time: Model Guidelines |
Not all counties in Michigan have adopted the state's model guidelines for parenting time schedules, so check with your county for specifics: Alternating Weekends - From 6:00 p.m. Friday until 6:00 p.m. Sunday Weekdays - One evening per week from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on a day to be determined by the parties (Wednesday if parties can't agree) Holidays For the following holidays, the father has parenting time in odd-numbered years and the mother has parenting time in even-numbered years:
For the following holidays, the father has parenting time in even-numbered years and the mother has parenting time in odd-numbered years:
Spring, Summer, and Winter Break
Mother's Day and Father's Day - Child shall be with the mother for the entire weekend of Mother's Day and with the father for the entire weekend of Father's Day, from 6:00 p.m. Friday until 6:00 p.m. Sunday Telephone Contact - When in the care of one parent, a child shall have the right to contact the other parent by telephone or internet. The frequency of calls is established on a case-by-case basis, but at least once a week for school-age children. If the child is residing at a different location than usual, the other parent shall be informed of the address and an alternate telephone number. Other Parenting Time Options - Other options may include the child's birthday and the option for one of the parents to be the first choice as a child care provider when needed Note: Although these guidelines specifically indicate "father" and "mother," same-sex parents also have parenting time rights under Michigan's equitable parent doctrine. Cases may vary depending on the circumstances. |
Common Terms and Conditions of Parenting Time |
The following specific terms and conditions of parenting time may be included in the court order if requested by either party:
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Factors Considered When Determining Parenting Time (Visitation) in Michigan |
In order to determine the length, frequency, and type of parenting time, the court considers the following factors:
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Grandparenting Time |
A child's grandparent may seek a grandparenting time order under one of the following circumstances:
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Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Research the Law
Michigan Parenting Time and Visitation Rights: Related Resources
Have Questions About Your Visitation Rights? A Michigan Attorney Can Help
Spending time with both parents is usually in the best interests of a child, assuming there aren't any concerns such as child abuse. If you need help asserting your right to visit your child, you may need the assistance of an experienced professional. Speak with a qualified Michigan family law attorney near you to learn more.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- Custody & child visitation cases are emotional, and a lawyer can seek the best outcome
- A lawyer can help protect your children's interests
- Lawyers can seek to secure visitation rights
Get tailored advice and ask a lawyer questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.
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