On March 23, 2020 Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed into effect Executive Order No. 2020-21. This Order temporarily requires Michigan residents and businesses to suspend all activities that are NOT necessary to sustain or protect life. In essence, it is a stay-at-home order that only allows you to leave your home for essential purposes. What does this mean for child custody? Are you still required to make parenting time exchanges?
The answer is, YES. Section 7 of Governor Whitmer’s Order provides for exceptions to the stay-at-home order, and specifically mentions custody orders. Section 7(b)(4) states:
(b) Individuals may also travel:
(1) To return to a home or place of residence from outside this state.
(2) To leave this state for a home or residence elsewhere.
(3) To travel between two residences in this state.
(4) As required by law enforcement or a court order, including the transportation of children pursuant to a custody agreement.
In other words, you are still bound by your custody order, and you are allowed to travel consistent with your court order for pick-ups/drop-offs.
As always, extraordinary circumstances may arise. If you have additional questions or concerns, please contact our office at (616) 259-8463 or via email at dbarnett@4grewal.com.
