Children have a legal right to financial support from both parents. A parent can’t avoid paying child support by agreeing not to have parenting time (visitation) or by agreeing to have their parental rights terminated.

In Michigan, both parents have a duty to support their child (or children) until the child reaches 18, or perhaps longer (up to age 19 1/2) if the child is still in high school or if the parents agree to extend the time.

In Michigan, the amount of child support is determined using the guidelines established by the Supreme Court. Child support guidelines are based on the monthly net income of both parents and the time the child spends with each parent.

Child Support in Michigan duration: Michigan’s child support laws allow a court to order child support for a child who is nder the age of 18 or until a child is 19 1/2 if they are full time high school students. Proper Cause or Change of Circumstances

Child support modification. Michigan law provides that child support modification is within the sound discretion of the trial court upon showing of a change in circumstances justifying Michigan child support modification. Good v Armstrong, 218 Mich App 1 (1996).

Under the Michigan Child Support Formula Manual it is apparent that overnights and the income of the parties are the primary factors in determining the amount of child support. These two factors effect child support more than any other. The other considerations, include, dependency exemptions, child care, and health insurance costs.

If it has been less than 36 months since the last court order review, either parent may file a court motion to change the child support order. Note: There may be a fee associated with filing a court motion – check with your local court. You will be asked to complete a case questionnaire, which is provided at the time of your review.