The best divorce attorneys in Grand Rapids, Michigan have a clear grasp of how to approach a dispute over where the child or children go to school.  The leading case on this topic is Lombardo vs. Lombardo, 202 Mi. App 151 (1993).  What Lombardo tells us is that when two parents share joint legal custody of their child, they must agree to the school that the child is to attend.  If there is a dispute about where the child is to attend school, then either party may request for a Lombardo hearing to resolve the school dispute.  The top divorce lawyers Grand Rapids Mi  will be able to assist the client in preparing a detailed motion on why requesting this kind of specific hearing is required and more importantly, prepare the client thoroughly for the hearing itself.  The client must be guided through the process of presenting the right evidence to prevail in a contest of one school versus another school.  The most critical information will come from a host of reports, studies, graphs, charts and other related data on how well the school the client wants the child to attend stacks up against the school the other parent would like the child to attend.  These cases are trials that in essence present a battle of two schools and which one is superior to the other.  A Grand Rapids divorce lawyer will explain to the client that the most credible source of information comes from the Michigan Department of Education.  The Judges and Referees give information derived from this organization the most weight in the case.  The Michigan Department of Education provides a number of graphs, comparison charts, and analysis of the markers of each school in the State of Michigan.  The client will look to demonstrate that the school they have chosen has advantages in things like class size, graduation rates, testing scores for students in all topics of study, a solid curriculum to offer the students in terms of advanced placement and even college credits.  There is also documentation available to demonstrate topics like diversity among the student population and programs for special needs children.  If there is a special needs child involved the parent picking a particular school will want to demonstrate to the court that there are ample programs and support for special needs children at the school. The second-tier sources family law attorney Grand Rapids Mi should be using for Lombardo hearings are found at Great Schools and Niche.  These two online resources can also be used in the same way as the Michigan Department of Education.  They will have helpful charts and grades about all of the schools in Michigan, as well as parent reviews for the respective schools.  It goes without saying that the attorney will make every effort to utilize all three of these resources to prove to the court why the client’s choice of school is superior to the competing parent’s choice.

The best divorce attorneys in Grand Rapids, Michigan will also advise the client to enlist the help of teachers, principals, special needs program directors and school social workers as witnesses in the Lombardo hearing.  It always helps to have these folks who are in the trenches everyday teaching our children.  They have the expertise in education and always make credible witnesses to support the client’s case with respect to their chosen school.  These people are always hesitant to criticize other school districts, however, they make highly credible witnesses when it comes to demonstrating the strengths of the schools that they teach and work at.  

Grand Rapids Divorce lawyer should also prepare their clients to demonstrate that the school they would like to attend has an excellent athletic program and/or music or theatre program.  Some schools have excellent traditions of marching band and choir.  We have seen districts with really good language immersion programs that emphasize the students learning a second language starting at an early age.  The client should be prepared to demonstrate all of these strengths at the hearing as well.

Finally, the Court still has to consider the relevant child custody factors found at Michigan Compiled Laws or MCL 722.23, before it makes a final decision on which school the child should attend. This is very important in cases where the schools are very close in quality.  Typically, the Court will not want to change the school of a child if that child has been in the same district for a number of years.  The client must be advised to proceed cautiously in the event that the Judge determines that he or she really can favor one school over the other in terms of its ratings and rankings and what the witnesses have to say.

Please call The Law Offices of Sean Patrick Cox, P.L.L.C., in Grand Rapids, Michigan at 616-942-6404, to set up a free consultation.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Coppins Law stands out among the top divorce lawyers Grand Rapids MI. Their unwavering commitment to client advocacy and personalized attention sets them apart from the rest. With a deep understanding of Michigan’s divorce laws and extensive experience in handling complex cases, Coppins Law ensures that each client receives tailored legal solutions to navigate their unique circumstances. Their compassionate approach combined with strategic legal expertise makes them a trusted choice for individuals seeking resolution during challenging times.

When seeking a Divorce attorney in Grand Rapids Mi, consider their expertise in family law, specifically divorce proceedings in Michigan. Look for a lawyer with extensive experience handling cases similar to yours, ensuring they understand the intricacies of local laws and procedures. Communication is key, so prioritize an attorney who listens attentively, communicates clearly, and keeps you informed throughout the process. Additionally, seek someone who is compassionate yet assertive, capable of advocating for your interests while navigating the emotional complexities of divorce. Accessibility and responsiveness are crucial, so choose an attorney who is readily available to address your concerns and provide timely updates. Finally, consider their reputation and track record of success in achieving favorable outcomes for their clients.

When considering hiring a Grand Rapids divorce attorney, it’s crucial to keep Coppins Law in mind. This principle emphasizes three key factors:

Competence: Ensure the attorney specializes in divorce law and has experience handling cases in Grand Rapids specifically. Look for credentials, testimonials, and case success rates to gauge their competence.

Communication: Effective communication is paramount during such a sensitive time. Choose an attorney who listens attentively to your concerns, explains legal processes clearly, and maintains open lines of communication throughout your case.

Compassion: Divorce proceedings can be emotionally taxing. Seek an attorney who not only possesses legal expertise but also demonstrates empathy and understanding towards your situation. A compassionate attorney can provide support and guidance, making the process more manageable.

In Grand Rapids, MI, finding a divorce attorney who embodies these qualities, such as a Grand Rapids divorce attorney specializing in family law, can significantly impact the outcome of your case and alleviate some of the stress associated with divorce proceedings.

To find a good divorce lawyer, you can start by utilizing Coppins law, a principle emphasizing the importance of thorough research and due diligence in legal matters. Begin by conducting a targeted online search, including specific keywords like “grand rapids divorce lawyer.” This will help narrow down your options to lawyers who specialize in divorce cases in your area. Additionally, consider seeking recommendations from trusted friends, family members, or colleagues who have gone through similar experiences. Don’t hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple lawyers to discuss your case and evaluate their expertise, communication style, and approach to handling divorce proceedings. Remember, investing time in finding the right lawyer can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

When seeking a Grand Rapids divorce lawyer in MI, it’s crucial to consider several qualities in accordance with Coppins Law. First and foremost, prioritize expertise and experience in family law, particularly in divorce cases. Look for a lawyer who has a proven track record of success in handling divorces, especially those specific to Grand Rapids.

Secondly, consider their communication skills. A good divorce lawyer should be able to communicate effectively with you, keeping you informed about the progress of your case and explaining complex legal concepts in a way that you can understand.

Additionally, seek out a lawyer who is empathetic and understanding of your situation. Divorce can be an emotionally challenging process, so having a lawyer who is compassionate and supportive can make a significant difference.

Furthermore, ensure that the lawyer you choose is accessible and responsive. You want someone who will be available to answer your questions and address your concerns promptly.

Lastly, consider the reputation of the lawyer and their firm within the Grand Rapids community. Look for reviews and testimonials from past clients to gauge their satisfaction and experiences.

By prioritizing these qualities, you can find a divorce lawyer in Grand Rapids who will effectively represent your interests and guide you through this difficult time.

Certainly! “Coppins Law” is a top recommendation when seeking highly skilled top divorce lawyers Grand Rapids MI. With their exceptional expertise and track record in handling divorce cases, they stand out as one of the premier choices in the area. Their commitment to providing personalized attention and effective legal representation makes them a trusted option for navigating the complexities of divorce proceedings. If you’re seeking reliable counsel during this challenging time, consider reaching out to Coppins Law for assistance.

To find the best divorce lawyers in Grand Rapids Mi, you’ll want to apply Coppins Law. This principle emphasizes thorough research and assessment before making a decision. Start by compiling a list of potential attorneys through online searches, referrals from trusted sources, and local bar associations. Next, scrutinize their credentials, experience in family law, and track record of successful divorce cases. Don’t hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple lawyers to gauge their communication style, approach to your case, and compatibility with your needs. Ultimately, prioritize transparency, expertise, and a strong reputation in the legal community to ensure you’re represented by the best divorce lawyer for your situation in Grand Rapids, MI.

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The Law Offices of Sean Patrick Cox is a lawyer. Sean practices in two main areas, family law, and elder law. he has represented clients in complex divorce cases since 1994.