Get the Book the Judges Use
Prepared by ICLE for the SCAO, the Michigan Family Law Benchbook covers the family law matters that judges address. Written from the judge's perspective, it includes handy charts and scripts, along with concise summaries of the law.
With this book, you will be able to:
- Hone your advocacy skills in divorce matters with tips from judges from around the state
- Work more effectively with the Friend of the Court staff
- Advise your clients using the child custody "decision tree" designed by and for judges
- Handle paternity and parenting time issues with the benefit of judicial advice
- See how a judge might evaluate spousal support factors
- Apply complex Michigan and federal Indian child welfare laws
Highlights of the latest update include:
- Michigan Court of Appeals opinions on conservatorships, guardianships, parenting time, custody, and binding precedent
- New sections on the new 2025 tax act provisions and the effects of divorce on the duty to support a noncitizen immigrant
- Amendments to MCR 3.207 and .210 regarding ex parte orders
- Amendments to MCR 3.613 addressing name changes
- Amendments to MCR 7.215 on citing unpublished opinions
PRINT BOOK
796 pages, 1-volume, 7x10 paperback. Includes a download of forms. Current to 05/01/26. Next update June 2027. Subscription service available.
ONLINE BOOK
Fully searchable and continually updated. Citations link to Michigan caselaw, statutes, and court rules. Includes online index, downloadable forms, and summary of changes. Price is for a one-year subscription.