What Is a Status Quo Order in a Michigan Divorce?

Divorce is difficult for anyone. But when children are involved, the process becomes even more emotional — and often contentious.

Thus, patience, understanding, and communication are key to making the change as smooth as possible for minor children. Parents still need to work together to make child-rearing decisions, coordinate the physical exchange of the children, and provide financially for the kids.

Each parent may know in theory that they’ll have to work with the other one. In practice, though, the parents’ feelings often affect the children, or they can start making changes independently that may not be in their children’s best interests.

If you’re experiencing these or similar difficulties early on in the divorce process, a Michigan court might issue a status quo offer during your divorce proceeding. This help to reduce the impact of divorce on children until living arrangements are more settled.

Maintaining Status Quo During a Michigan Divorce

A Michigan status quo order for a divorcing couple with children is a court order to maintain the child(ren)’s current status and promote stability. The exact orders in your status quo petition may be unique to your situation, but they often require the parents to:

• Maintain the same living arrangements for the children
• Adhere to the same school schedules, including pick-up, drop-off, and bus routes
• Keep the child enrolled in their usual extra-curricular activities and sports

Divorce is already a difficult time for children; keeping a familiar routine with familiar teachers, friends, and coaches minimizes disruption and stress. In some situations, the status quo order may stipulate parenting time (custody) and other decision-making privileges.

Consequences of  Disrupting a Michigan Status Quo Order

A status quo order is a court order. In other words, it is a legally binding document that both parents must follow. Failure to do so — an act called “disrupting the status quo” — carries serious legal consequences.

Parents who violate an order placed to serve the children’s best interests may lose custody or visitation, be assessed fines, or be ordered to reimburse the other parent for expenses incurred as a result of the order violation.

Although a status quo order is a civil matter, violating one can also lead to criminal charges. It’s critical for each parent to understand the obligations of a status quo order and follow them accordingly.

Divorce Lawyers in Michigan Help You Maintain a Status Quo Order

Your lawyer fights to ensure that you have the best possible outcome in a divorce. This includes helping you file and maintain a status quo order and document when the other parent fails to.

A status quo order could be part of temporary orders and may not become final. However, if one parent knowingly violates the order, the judge may not be as willing to give them as much possession time with their kids.

If you’re going through a divorce and are worried about the effect on your children, the legal team at Gucciardo Family Law can help you file a motion for status quo. We’re here in your time of need and have your and your children’s best interests at heart.P