Michigan Enforcing Child Custody Orders

Unless you have opted not to receive the services of the friend of the court or your court order does not contain specific custody language, the friend of the court will assist in enforcing custody orders.

When parents cannot resolve problems regarding custody, the friend of the court office in the county where the case is filed can help parents reach an agreement, and if appropriate, take action to enforce the court order. You may want to view the Model Friend of the Court Handbook for some common child custody questions and answers.

The friend of the court is required to enforce custody orders. The law says that upon receipt of a written complaint stating the specific facts alleging a violation of a custody order, the friend of the court shall initiate enforcement proceedings. This is found in the Friend of the Court Act at MCL 552.511b. In addition, Michigan Court Rule, MCR 3.208(B), requires the friend of the court to enforce custody provisions of the court's orders. These provisions may be enforced under the Friend of the Court Act or the Support and Parenting Time Enforcement Act. You may also want to view the Michigan Custody Guideline.

The friend of the court must also, upon request, assist a party in preparing a written complaint regarding custody. See MCL 552.511b(1).