Changing Custody & Support Orders in Orange County
A major change in one’s life may warrant a change in existing court orders related to custody or support. When this occurs, it is important to work with an attorney who can help you take the appropriate steps to legally modify the order or orders. A verbal agreement or a change without your ex-spouse’s knowledge could backfire, negatively impacting your financial situation and time with your children. In extreme cases, criminal charges could even be filed against you.
Moshtael Family Law delivers quality legal representation and caring, personalized service in modifications of orders and all areas of divorce and family law. Our Orange County divorce lawyers know what is at stake in these situations, and we utilize our resources and our knowledge to develop winning strategies that help you achieve your goals in modifying or challenging modifications to an existing court order.
Reasons for Modification
Typically, the Courts will look for a change in circumstances that is substantial enough to justify a modification. If children are involved, their best interests will also be given considerable importance, as a modification should not degrade conditions for a child or harm him/her in any way. That is why it is so important for your lawyer to prepare a clear and persuasive case on your behalf to request a modification or challenge a requested modification.
The following are examples of circumstances that may warrant a change of child custody, spousal support, visitation, or child support:
- Significant increase or decrease in income
- Job loss
- Incarceration
- Significant changes in the amount of time a child spends with each parent
- A change in the child’s medical or educational needs
- Remarriage
- Relocation
