If your child custody order no longer works for you, it is possible to
have it modified. However, since stability and consistency are paramount
in a child’s life, a judge will only grant your request if it serves
the best interests of your child. The court will not modify your child
custody order for minor reasons, especially if your child is settled in
the routine provided by the current one.
When a Judge Will Modify Your Custody Order
There are several circumstances in which a judge will modify a custody
order. Of course, if your co-parent agrees to have it modified, it will
make the process substantially easier. That said, you must still have
the modification formally approved by a judge. If your co-parent does
not agree to the modification, here are some of the changes in your situation
a judge will consider:
- The parent who is not making the request created a dangerous environment
for the child
- One parent needs to move for a new employment opportunity, which would
make the current custody order impractical
- The developmental and emotional needs of your child changed
- The parent who is not making the request keeps ignoring the visitation schedule
- One of the parent’s work schedules changed
To support your request, you should collect documents that show how the
modification to your current child custody order will benefit your child.
Below are some of the documents you should consider preparing to request
a modification to your child custody order:
- A change in school activities that might impact the parenting schedule
- A journal that details the issues you are having with the current parenting schedule
- Paperwork that shows the other parent is unfit to care for the child
- Statements from teachers, doctors, or witnesses
- If the child is older and more mature, a statement regarding his or her
own wishes would be considered
- Evidence of relocation or a new job
- A comparison of actual parenting time and scheduled parenting time
Once a judge approves of your new child custody order, you and your co-parent
must both follow it. To help ensure the success of your request, be sure
to hire an experienced child custody attorney to handle your case and
walk you through every step of this complex family law matter.
Speak to an Experienced Child Custody Attorney Today!
If you need to modify your
child custody arrangement, you need a knowledgeable child custody attorney on your side.
At the Law Office of Kathryn Marteeny, our child custody team will provide
the skilled legal representation you need to help you obtain a modification
to your custody order. Backed by over three decades of experience and
a proven history of success, you can feel confident in our child custody
team’s ability to secure the results you need for you and your children.
Reach out to our law office today at (713) 936-2300 to schedule a confidential case
review with one of our compassionate and trusted attorneys.