Why A Custody Order Could Be Modified
Do you have a custody order that is not working for you as well as it could? If so, consider having a family court make modifications to it. Even when parents still have a good relationship after a divorce, making formal modifications to a child custody order is the ideal thing to do. Here is why you may be looking to modify your custody order.
A Parent Is Moving
Custody arrangements often depend on where each parent lives in relation to each other. When the parents live close to each other, it's possible for visitation to happen more frequently and for shorter periods of time. When the parents are living far apart, visitations need to be planned for a longer period of time to make it worthwhile for everyone involved. A move by either parent could justify an evaluation of the custody agreement. Making the arrangement formal will help guarantee that the child still gets to spend time with both of their parents, even in situations that are not ideal because of where the parents live.
A Child Wants A Change
Is your child now old enough where they can decide whose home they wish to live at, and have expressed interest in wanting a change? Consider this a valid reason to change what their living arrangement is in the custody agreement. Don't feel like you should go against the order, since where the child lives can have legal ramifications you may not be aware of. This includes how much child support is paid, and even who gets to claim the child as a dependent on their taxes. It will also guarantee that each parent still has scheduled visitation.
A Parent Has Changed Jobs
Your custody order could have been based on employment, which had a big impact on when visitation happened or who had custody of the child. For example, working a consistent weekend shift would make weekend visitation difficult, and working a consistent night shift would make having custody difficult. When employment changes happen, consider the possibility of custody changes as well.
The Custody Order Isn't Working
Sometimes the court ordered custody situation isn't working out for whatever the reason may be, and you need help mediating a new agreement. This can be facilitated by a family court so that any changes are formal. Consider having a family lawyer attend any mediation with you, so that you have help getting the changes that you are looking for.