Can the Other Parent Change Our Parenting Time Schedule Without a Court Order?
Michigan Parenting Time Rights Explained
Parenting time disputes are one of the most common—and most stressful—issues Michigan parents face. Confusion often starts with one simple question:
“Can the other parent change our parenting time schedule without a court order?”
In almost every situation, the answer is no.
This guide explains what Michigan law says, what your rights are, what to do when the other parent refuses to follow the schedule, and how Triton Legal PLC helps parents throughout Bay, Midland, Saginaw, Gladwin, Clare, Arenac, Iosco, and Tuscola Counties protect and enforce their parenting time.
1. Michigan Parenting Time Orders Are Legally Binding
Once a judge signs a custody or parenting time order, both parents are legally required to follow it. This includes:
The regular parenting time schedule
Holiday and school break schedules
Exchange times and locations
Transportation responsibilities
Any specific conditions in the order
Neither parent may unilaterally:
Change pickup or drop-off times
Cancel scheduled parenting time
Switch weekends or weeks
Add new conditions
Reduce the other parent’s time
Create a “new schedule” on their own
Unless both parents agree or the court approves a change, the existing order remains fully enforceable.
2. When Can Parenting Time Be Changed?
There are only three legal ways to change a parenting time schedule in Michigan.
A. Both parents mutually agree
Parents often make minor adjustments when it helps the child. But agreement must be:
Voluntary
Mutual
Clear
If one parent is attempting to force a change, it is not a valid agreement.
B. The court issues a new order
Parenting time changes must typically come through:
A Motion to Modify Parenting Time and/or Child Custody
A Motion for Change of Domicile
A Consent Order signed by both parents and the judge
Until the judge signs the new order, the current schedule remains binding.
C. A temporary emergency order
A judge may issue a temporary emergency order in rare situations involving immediate safety concerns.
3. What if the Other Parent Is Not Following the Parenting Time Order?
If the other parent is ignoring, altering, or interfering with the order, take the following steps:
1. Document each violation
Record missed exchanges, messages, and any attempts to resolve the issue.
2. Offer reasonable makeup time
This shows good faith and protects your credibility with the court.
3. Do not retaliate
Denying parenting time in return usually harms your case.
4. Contact an attorney early
Patterns of interference often escalate if not addressed promptly.
5. File a Motion to Enforce Parenting Time
Courts may order:
Makeup parenting time
Attorney fees
Fines
Additional conditions
Custody changes in severe cases
Michigan courts take violations seriously, especially when interference becomes chronic.
4. Can the Other Parent Refuse Parenting Time?
Generally, no, unless there are extreme circumstances. Even in these situations, the proper next step is a motion to the court—not unilateral action.
“The child doesn’t want to go” is not a legally valid reason to deny court-ordered parenting time unless a judge has made a ruling based on safety or best interests.
5. What If the Other Parent Claims They Can Change the Schedule Due to Work or Activities?
Michigan courts expect cooperation, but they do not allow one parent to override the order because of:
Work schedules
New relationships
Extracurricular activities
Personal convenience
Travel plans
If a schedule change is needed, it must be done through:
Mutual agreement
A court order
6. When Should You File a Motion to Modify Parenting Time?
A modification may be appropriate when:
The current schedule no longer meets the child’s needs
The other parent repeatedly violates the order
Safety concerns arise
There has been a meaningful change in circumstances
School, medical, or logistical needs have shifted
The court will evaluate whether the proposed change is in the child’s best interests.
7. When Does Parenting Time Interference Become a Custody Issue?
Repeated, intentional interference shows the court that a parent may not be fostering a healthy parent-child relationship. Over time, this can result in:
Custody modifications
Restrictions on parenting time
Enforcement orders
Attorney fee awards
Serious and ongoing violations can lead to significant legal consequences.
Protect Your Parenting Time. Triton Legal Can Help.
If the other parent is changing your parenting time schedule without agreement or a court order, you do not have to tolerate it. Triton Legal PLC helps parents assert, enforce, and protect their rights under Michigan law.
Speak with an attorney today:
Read more about child custody and parenting time here.