Bill > HB5212

This bill amends Michigan's Child Custody Act to establish a presumption of equal or approximately equal parenting time for parents in custody disputes. The bill requires courts to advise parents about joint custody and provide a specific notice to parties in custody actions explaining their rights to joint custody. The legislation creates a legal presumption that children benefit from spending equal time with both parents, unless specific evidence demonstrates that such an arrangement would not serve the child's best interests. When parents agree on joint custody, courts must grant it unless clear and convincing evidence shows it would harm the child. The bill also modifies existing language around parenting time, emphasizing that children have a right to strong relationships with both parents and that parenting time should be granted to promote those relationships. Additionally, the bill maintains existing protections for children in cases involving parental criminal sexual conduct and provides specific guidelines for how courts should consider parenting time, including factors like the child's special needs, potential for abuse, and the practicality of travel. The legislation aims to create a more balanced approach to child custody that prioritizes meaningful involvement of both parents in a child's life.

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https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-5212