Friend of the Court

foc@shiawassee.net

Mon - Fri 8am to 5pm

Circuit Courthouse
208 N Shiawassee Street, 1st Floor
Corunna, MI 48817

Click Here For Directions

Phone:  989-743-2397
Fax:      989-743-2439

 

Facilitation

*NOTE: All parties scheduled for a facilitation conference will be REQUIRED to attend the SMILE Program. For more information please click the link listed here: SMILE Program

Facilitation Conference Questionnaire

Domestic Violence Questionnaire

The facilitation process is designed to inform and assist those parents who need to address issues involving their children. Those issues include custody, parenting time, and child support. Those problems and concerns are approached in a comprehensive and educational manner. A facilitator works with the parties in an attempt to formulate mutually acceptable solutions. The Facilitation Conference is tailored to deal with each unique case. Discussions will relate directly to the current family situation. The focus will be on the best interests of the children.

When applicable, the following steps will be taken after a "Summons and Compliant" form involving minor children has been submitted to the Court:

Step 1:

  • After Proof of Service and order of the Court, the Friend of the Court office will send a Notice of Hearing, Order regarding Facilitation, Facilitation Conference Questionnaire and a Domestic Violence Screening Questionnaire to each party requiring them to meet online or in-person at the Friend of the Court office. Parties will be scheduled to meet with the facilitator as soon as practicable. EXCEPTIONS: If an order has been entered by the Court that addresses custody, parenting time and child support, and there is no objection to that order, a Facilitation Conference will not be held. 

Step 2:

  • Parties will meet with the Facilitator on their scheduled date for the Facilitation Conference. The issues of custody, parenting time and support will be discussed based on each individual case.

Step 3:

  • The Facilitator will follow the outlined facilitation program allowing the parties to actively participate by asking questions, stating their positions, concerns etc.

Step 4:

  • The Facilitator will offer information and discuss issues with the parties while maintaining the focus on the best interests of the child or children.

Step 5:

  • An Ex Parte order may be submitted to the Court for signature with or without the parties having reached an agreement. The parties will have twenty-one (21) days to object to the order.