As your child grows up, you may notice that it is becoming more and more difficult to follow their custody order. Their needs may change as they pursue new extracurricular activities, begin at a new school, or demonstrate new interests. Our child custody modification attorneys share what you should know about when growing pains make it difficult for you to follow your custody agreement.
Custody Modifications
The first thing to remember is that custody modifications are not made lightly. The court will only consider a modification if there has been a significant change in circumstances since the original custody order was put in place. This could be something like one parent getting a new job that requires them to travel frequently or a child starting to exhibit behavioral issues that make it difficult for them to adjust to their current custody arrangement.
Common significant changes the court may consider include:
- A substantial change in travel schedule for one or both parents,
- A substantial change in work schedule for one or both parents,
- A substantial schedule change for the child,
- A change in the child or parent’s health,
- A change in one parent’s ability to care for the child, or
- Any substance abuse issues for one parent.
Seeking a Modification
If you think you might need a custody modification, the first step is to talk to a trusted child custody modifications attorney about your concerns. They can review your current situation and help you determine if a modification would be the right step for your family.
When you file a petition for custody modification, the court will look at various factors to decide whether or not to grant your request. They will consider things like the child’s age, their relationship with each parent, and any changes in circumstances that have occurred since the original custody order was put in place. They will also consider if this modification is in the child’s best interests.
Dedicated to Protecting Your Family
If you think you might need a custody modification, make sure to talk to one of our experienced family law attorneys at Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein to learn more about how we can help you navigate the modification process. We can help you understand if your child’s growing pains are just that or if they will require a modification to their custody order.
Are you concerned about your current custody order? Schedule a consultation with our modifications attorneys today to learn more about how we can help your family.