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Michigan Form FOC 19: Motion and Order to Show Cause for Contempt (Custody/Parenting Time)
What this form does, who files it, what it costs, and how to avoid the errors that get Michigan filings rejected.
Reviewed and updated by the Clear Path document team. Informational only — not legal advice.
Quick Answer
What is Michigan form FOC 19?
Form FOC 19 asks the court to order the other parent to appear and explain why they should not be held in contempt for violating a custody or parenting-time order.
Who files it
A parent whose custody or parenting-time order is being violated, or the Friend of the Court.
Where it goes
The circuit court where the family case is pending; the Friend of the Court receives a copy.
Filing fee
A motion fee of about $20 applies in most circuit courts.
What you need before you start
- The date and terms of the order being violated
- Specific dates and details of each missed or denied parenting time
- Any written communication showing the violation
How to complete and file form FOC 19
- 1
List the order and each specific violation with dates.
- 2
File the motion with the clerk and pay the motion fee.
- 3
The judge signs the order to show cause setting a hearing date.
- 4
Serve the other parent as the order requires and file proof of service.
Mistakes that get FOC 19 rejected
- Describing violations in general terms instead of dates and details
- Filing contempt before trying the Friend of the Court's own enforcement process
- Serving improperly, which forces the hearing to be adjourned