Arbitration. The reference of a dispute to an impartial third person chosen by the parties to resolve the dispute. The parties agree in advance to abide by the arbitrator’s award, which is issued after a hearing in which the parties have an opportunity to be heard.
Best Interests Factors. MCL 722.23 standardizes the criteria that the court must use in deciding disputed child custody cases. In deciding a child custody dispute, the court must consider each of the statutory factors, and make a specific finding on the record.
Case Management Conference. Courts hold these conferences early on after filing and service of process. Most courts require the participation of both attorneys and both parties, although this depends on the particular judge. At the case management conference, the court will generally ask about the necessity of Friend of the Court referrals, and set deadlines for discovery, mediation, and other scheduling matters. Some judges address other issues particular to the individual case. Usually, not much gets resolved at the case management conference; it’s simply an opportunity for the court to keep tabs on the case’s progress. However, every judge is different, so it’s a good idea to have an attorney that has experience with your particular judge.
Early Intervention Conference.
Praecipe.