What does the Friend of the Court do in Michigan?

Investigations and recommendations

When the court orders it, the office investigates and makes a written report and recommendation on custody or parenting time based on the Child Custody Act factors, and on support using the Michigan Child Support Formula (MCL 552.505(1)(g) and (h)). If you ask, a custody or parenting time investigation must include a meeting with you.

Before deciding a contested custody matter, the court must let the parties review any Friend of the Court report and file objections (MCR 3.210(C)(6)).

Dispute resolution and enforcement

The office offers alternative dispute resolution for custody and parenting time disputes, with domestic violence screening (MCL 552.513, MCR 3.224). It also starts enforcement when support falls behind by at least one month’s payment, or when a parent submits a written complaint with specific facts about a custody or parenting time violation (MCL 552.511 and 552.511b).

Opting out and complaints

Parents can ask the court not to open, or to close, a Friend of the Court case, subject to limits such as receipt of public assistance, or evidence of domestic violence or uneven bargaining positions together with evidence that a party’s choice is against that party’s or the child’s best interest (MCL 552.505a). Without an open case, the parents handle administration and enforcement themselves.

A grievance about office operations or staff goes to the office in writing first, then to the chief judge, each with a 30-day response period (MCL 552.526). Disagreement with a recommendation in your case is raised by objecting under the court rules, not by grievance.