Michigan Senate Bill SB0942

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/29/26
• Refer: 4/29/26

Caption

Family law: child custody; information on the presumption of equal or approximately equal parenting time; require the friend of the court to provide. Amends sec. 5 of 1982 PA 294 (MCL 552.505). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0940'26, SB 0941'26

Impact

The enactment of SB 942 would significantly alter the landscape of family law in Michigan by mandating that each office of the Friend of the Court actively inform and assist parents throughout the custody determination process. By enforcing the presumption of equal parenting time, the bill seeks to standardize custody arrangements, which could potentially lead to a decrease in custody-related disputes and court congestion. Furthermore, the educational component of the bill aims to empower parents by providing them with resources and options for resolving disputes amicably, which aligns with modern family law trends emphasizing collaborative practices.

Summary

Senate Bill 942 aims to amend the Friend of the Court Act in Michigan by enhancing the duties and responsibilities of the offices of the Friend of the Court related to domestic relations matters. The bill emphasizes the presumption of equal or approximately equal parenting time for parents in a custody dispute, which encourages shared parenting arrangements. Additionally, it mandates that the Friend of the Court office provide an informational pamphlet to all parties involved, detailing their rights and responsibilities, the procedures for dispute resolution, and the availability of community services. This is intended to foster a more informed environment for parents navigating the child custody process.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as progressive, there are concerns regarding its implications. Opponents may argue that the presumption of equal parenting time does not account for complex family dynamics and situations where one parent may not be suitable for equal custody due to safety or behavioral concerns. This aspect of the bill has stirred debate among family law practitioners and advocates, as they weigh the benefits of promoting shared parenting against the necessity of ensuring child safety and well-being. Consequently, discussions surrounding SB 942 highlight the ongoing challenges in reforming family law to effectively balance parental rights with the best interests of children.