If you’re going through a divorce or custody case in Michigan, you’ll likely hear about the Friend of the Court, or FOC.
FOC offices are unique to Michigan. They play a serious role in family law, and knowing what they do can help you prepare for your case and avoid surprises.
What Is the Friend of the Court in Michigan?
The Friend of the Court is part of Michigan’s family court system. Each county has its own FOC office with employees who help judges make decisions about children. The main task of these employees is to look out for children’s interests during family disputes.
The FOC doesn’t take sides between parents. Instead, FOC employees collect information and make sure that court orders about custody, parenting time, and child support are followed.
What Does the Friend of the Court Actually Do?
The FOC handles several important tasks in family law cases:
- Investigate family situations by visiting homes, talking to parents, and sometimes interviewing children
- Tell the judge what they think would be best for the children
- Make sure parents follow court orders
- Step in if someone stops paying child support or doesn’t follow the custody schedule
- Figure out child support amounts using Michigan’s rules
- Offer mediation to help parents work out disagreements without going to court
- Keep track of support payments, taking money directly from paychecks if needed
The FOC stays involved long after the case ends. Until your children grow up, FOC employees may check in when there are concerns about child custody, well-being, and financial support.
How the Friend of the Court Affects Your Family Law Case
The FOC has a lot of influence over what will happen in your case since judges usually follow their advice about where children should live and how much support should be paid.
If you don’t agree with what the FOC recommends, you can ask for a hearing with the judge. However, this will require you to explain why the FOC is wrong, which can be tough.
Tips for Working With the Friend of the Court
The FOC can greatly affect your family’s future, which means that it pays to establish a rapport. To show that you’re committed to working together, follow these tips:
- Keep good records of payments and messages about parenting time
- Answer quickly when the FOC contacts you
- Always be truthful with FOC employees
- When problems arise with your child’s co-parent, communicate them to the FOC without exaggerating
FOC staff deal with many families every day. What they want to see is parents who put their kids first.
When You Might Need a Family Law Attorney
Working with the FOC can be tricky. You might need someone who knows both the written rules and how things really work in your local FOC office. If you and your ex strongly disagree about custody, if your ex isn’t following court orders, or if you need to change existing orders, a lawyer can help the FOC see your side more clearly.
Work With a Michigan Family Law Attorney
At Gucciardo Family Law, our attorneys work effectively with the FOC in Michigan. Contact us today to learn how we can help you get the best outcome for your family.
