Post-Divorce Modifications and Modifications to Child Custody and Support
Child custody and support are based on the circumstances at the time the orders were signed. Nothing stays the same. New jobs, subsequent marriages, changes in health, and the changing interests and needs of children often require revisiting the original decree.
As an experienced family law attorney, Mary can help. Mary represents clients in modifications of existing court orders. She represents clients requesting modifications, as well as those responding to a modification request. Each situation is different. Situations can include:
- Material changes in circumstances can take many forms and require custody modifications or changes to the court order to allow relocation. A new job, military deployment, or a new marriage may require relocation to another state, requiring changes to an existing visitation schedule.
- Substantial changes in income or circumstances may necessitate changes to child support orders. Spouses obligated to pay support may lose their jobs and accept employment with reduced pay. An accident leading to a disability may result in a significant reduction in income. Conversely, increases in income or a child’s needs could result in an increase in support.
- An ex-spouse’s changing needs or involvement in a new relationship may lead to the modification of an existing spousal maintenance (alimony) order.
A Note On Modifications Because of A Parent’s Desired Relocation
Relocation can be the most complicated type of modification because it has the potential to significantly impact both parents’ relationships with their children. To determine whether to grant the requested modification, the court considers various factors, particularly the impact of the move on the child. Relationships with parents and friends and attachment to their current school or community will also play a role in a court’s decision. The court may approve or disapprove the motion for modification of the existing order.
No matter how complex or how straightforward, modifications to custody and support agreements require skilled legal counsel to navigate you through the process. Experienced family law attorney Mary Jones possesses the skills and experience necessary to resolve matters in your best interests and those of your children.
Whether you are pursuing or disputing a modification, contact Mary E. Jones, family law attorney in Austin at 512-474-4400 to schedule a consultation.
