Few things remain the same following a divorce as children grow and life moves on. Because of that reality, it is important to be familiar with the family law resources available to help with modifications related to a divorce as circumstances change and the need arises.
The family law process recognizes that modifications may be needed following a divorce related to child custody, child support or alimony and spousal support. In some circumstances divorce-related modifications may be possible following a final divorce settlement and child custody order, child support order or order for spousal support has been issued.
A modification request may be made based on significant change in circumstances which must also be permanent and not temporary. If there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances of one of the parties involved, that was not anticipated when the most recent order was entered, it may be possible to seek a modification. Child support modifications may be granted based on a significant change in circumstances of one of the parents and child custody modifications must always be in the best interests of the child. It is important to keep in mind that the parties should always abide by whatever legal order is in place until a modification has been granted by the family law court.
Whether a parent or former spouse is seeking a modification or opposing a requested modification, the family law process provides tools to help guide them through the process. It is useful to be familiar with what the options are and how a divorce settlement agreement may be modified to account for future changes in the lives of the parties.