It’s time to improve Michigan’s family courts.
Three decades after Michigan established its family court system, we know the statute isn’t meeting
the needs of families.
Now, there’s a stronger way forward. Michigan House Bill 5445 is the roadmap.
This new legislation includes a new, non-rotating Family Division bench, a true “one family, one judge" mandate, and minimum training for judges who are new to family law.
The time to act is now.
Children and Parents Deserve Better
The Family Law Section of the State Bar of Michigan supports common-sense reforms that can address many of the issues in today's judicial system. Their plan is based on the state’s business court model, which requires judges to apply for the bench and ensure they have proper training.
Their plan is based on the principle of "one family, one judge" and requires family law judges to be well-versed in the law they'll administer.
Here's how—and why—it will work.
A new, non-rotating Family Division bench will be created.
A true "one family, one judge" mandate will be implemented to ensure judges have a complete picture of each Michigan family's experience.
Judges without minimum experience in family law will be required to receive the necessary education and training.