How do I get an order for child support?
If no one has yet commenced a civil lawsuit that raises the child support issue, you first must file a complaint that includes a request that the court enter a child support order. The next step is to file a motion asking the court to enter a child support order. The motion must be filed with the court clerk.

In Lenawee County, the motion/complaint is referred to the Friend of the Court unless parties have previously agreed to opt out of the friend of the court services. In most situations, the friend of the court establishes the first support recommendation. Once approved by the court, the recommendation then becomes a temporary order and awaits final judgment. Lenawee FOC Financial Intake staff are required to use the Michigan Guidelines for Support in making their recommendations. You may access the Michigan Guidelines for Support through the Michigan Courts Friend of the Court Bureau Website

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1. How do I get an order for child support?
2. Do I need an attorney to get a support order?
3. May I receive child support after my child reaches age 18?
4. If I have been paying child support as required by the court's order but the custodial parent will not allow me the parenting time required by that order, do I have to keep paying support?
5. The other parent is not paying child support as ordered. What can I do?
6. My court order says to pay support through the Friend of the Court or the Michigan State Disbursement Unit. May I pay the other parent directly?
7. If I am receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Family Independence Program (FIP) public assistance, may I also receive child support?
8. Will the Friend of the Court make sure that child support money is spent on the children?