How to Modify Child Custody Orders?

Changing circumstances may require a modification of a child custody order. Some courts do not require changes in circumstances to modify child custody orders. When both parents agree to a change, however, the requirements for modification may be less stringent. For example, children may be able to choose a parent to live with when they reach a certain age in Georgia. Other states have stricter time limits on modifying child custody orders, such as Illinois and Virginia, which typically require two years. 

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Changes in circumstances 

The court will consider changes in circumstances when modifying child custody orders based on these changes. These changes may not be financial, but they must be significant enough to warrant a change. For example, if a child needs specialized medical care or is in danger of developing mental illness, a parent may be unable to provide the necessary financial support for their child. Whether such a change is justified is a difficult question to answer, but the court will consider these changes if they are substantial enough. 

Other changes in circumstances that may lead to a change in child custody orders include the new living situation of one parent or a parent’s substance abuse. Other significant changes in circumstances may occur when the current custodial parent starts living with someone else who threatens the child’s safety. If the new partner has a criminal record, this fact can be particularly significant. In addition, one parent has suddenly passed away. A child may be unable to return to the home if the non-compliant parent is found in contempt of court. 

Requesting a post-judgment modification of a child custody order 

A post-judgment modification is a process in which a party named in a judgment seeks to alter the terms of a court order for a specific reason. These modifications typically pertain to support and custody agreements. In some cases, a lump-sum alimony payment can be modified only if it was fraudulently obtained. In such cases, you should seek the services of a family law attorney to help you file a motion to modify the existing child custody order. 

A final judgment will usually set forth specific child custody and support orders, as well as a time-sharing schedule and a co-parenting plan. However, circumstances can change, and new situations arise that do not address the original judgment. In such cases, parents may feel that they need to request a post-judgment modification of their existing child custody order. In such situations, it is important to seek legal counsel and demonstrate that a substantial change in circumstances has occurred in the parents’ lives. 

Filing a conciliation conference motion 

A Conciliation Conference is an informal proceeding where the parties try to reach an agreement about the child’s custody and visitation arrangements. It is not a court-ordered hearing, so the parties will not have to present evidence or witness testimony. The conciliation conference may not involve the child or the children. However, if the parties cannot agree, the court may do so. 

The goal of a conciliation conference is to reach an agreement between the parents without having to go through a court hearing. The conciliator will attempt to narrow the points of disagreement, and the conference will take place in a conference room in the county courthouse. The physical arrangements of the conciliation conferences will vary by county. In general, attorneys representing both sides will attend the conference. Parents will meet with attorneys to ensure they are on the same page before filing a conciliation conference motion to modify child custody orders. 

Changing the physical caretaker of a child 

Changing the primary caretaker of a child is an especially difficult issue in family law. The court will consider a variety of factors when determining custody, including the parent’s resources, support, and preference. In the end, the court will always consider the child’s best interests. Here are some things to consider when determining who should get custody of your child. The first consideration is the parent’s ability to properly raise the child. 

The primary caretaker of a child is the parent who has provided the child with the most basic needs. That parent may also attend conferences at the child’s school and schedule extracurricular activities. They may also be involved in teaching the child reading and writing skills. Child custody decisions are usually made according to who has a stronger emotional bond with the child. The mother and father can be primary caretakers or share the responsibilities equally.