Yes, child support orders can be modified when there has been a substantial change in circumstances affecting either parent’s ability to pay or the child’s needs. Examples include significant changes in income, job loss, remarriage or changes in the child’s living arrangements or medical needs.
Family Law
Family Law
Grand Rapids Family Law Attorneys
At the Van Den Heuvel Law Office, we are prepared to handle your divorce and family law matter. We have extensive experience and a network of experts to help you determine the value of complex assets, including business ownership interests. Let us help you and your family during this difficult time of transition.
How We Can Help When You are Filing for Divorce in Michigan
Divorce impacts all areas of your life, especially your family, finances, and property. We provide knowledgeable and skilled legal services in all areas related to Michigan family law matters, including:
- Divorce. We assist you with negotiations and litigation in your divorce to achieve your goals in the least disruptive way possible to your family. We have the knowledge, skills, and resources to accurately evaluate complex assets such as ownership interests in a business, real estate, pension plans, and other investments
- Child custody. Your children are your top priority, especially when you and your spouse are going through a divorce, so their best interests are our focus. Whether you are arguing over custody, support amounts, or parenting time, we are fully equipped and ready to help you.
- Child support. Determining the appropriate amount of child support that the noncustodial parent should pay can be emotional and overwhelming. It is our goal to ensure that each child has the same standard of living as before the divorce.
- Spousal support. The purpose of spousal support is to prevent the divorce from being financially devastating to either spouse. We fully investigate your spouse’s finances, including assets and property ownership, to make sure you are paid the support you are entitled to receive or that you only pay what is fair and equitable.
- Asset division. We also protect your interests when dividing assets and property, including any debt. We firmly believe that a divorce should not leave you in a financial crisis, so we work to protect your standard of living. We are experienced in valuating Michigan business ownership. We take pride in bringing years of experience to the table when representing spouses in complex, high-asset divorces.
- Adoptions. Whether you are a stepparent wanting to adopt your spouse’s child or a third party wanting to adopt a relative or an unrelated child, we are prepared to guide you through the adoption process step by step. We understand it is highly emotional and challenging at times, but with our compassionate and competent assistance, you can face the adoption process with confidence.
- Paternity. If you are interested in establishing that you are the biological father of your child, our office may be able to help. Our skilled attorneys can assist you in navigating the system and establishing paternity as quickly as possible. We understand that you want to be a part of your child’s life, so proving paternity and your legal rights to your child are a priority to us.
Schedule an Appointment with a Compassionate Family Lawyer in Grand Rapids MI Today
Whether your divorce is simple or complex, you need qualified legal representation. Contact the Van Den Heuvel Law Office to schedule your initial consultation at 616-698-0000 or online. Our offices are open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and after hours by appointment. We are also available on Skype by appointment.
FAQs About Family Law in Michigan
What is spousal support, and how is it determined in Michigan?
Spousal support, also known as alimony, refers to financial support granted by one spouse to the other either during or following a divorce. Michigan courts consider factors including the length of marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, standard of living during marriage, age and health of both parties and contributions to the marriage.
How do courts handle domestic violence allegations in family law cases?
Courts place significant importance on addressing domestic violence allegations with utmost seriousness and may issue personal protection orders to ensure safety. These allegations can significantly impact custody decisions, with courts prioritizing the safety of children and the victimized spouse when making custody and parenting time determinations.
What is the process for establishing paternity in Michigan?
Paternity can be established through voluntary acknowledgment signed by both parents, genetic testing ordered by the court or a court determination. Once paternity is confirmed, the father acquires legal rights and responsibilities, such as the ability to seek custody or parenting time and the obligation to pay child support.
Can I relocate with my children after divorce?
Michigan requires court approval for relocating with minor children if the move would significantly impact the other parent’s parenting time. The court considers factors such as the reason for the move, the child’s relationship with both parents and whether the move serves the child’s best interests.
What assets are considered marital property subject to division?
Marital property encompasses all assets acquired throughout the duration of the marriage, such as real estate, vehicles, retirement accounts, business interests and household items. Separate property, which typically includes assets acquired before marriage or obtained through gifts or inheritance typically remain the sole property of the original owner.
Howard Van Den Heuvel
Justin Van Den Heuvel
