Child Custody Modification Attorneys in Burbank
Trusted Family Law Attorneys Serving Burbank
Court orders regarding the legal agreements made by a divorced couple may need to be modified when circumstances that affect one or both parents arise in life. While such circumstances must be significant for a judge to even consider changing the original decree, if things do change, especially when they can affect the best interests of any children involved, a judge will review a well-prepared modification petition and decide accordingly.
If you feel the child custody agreements made at the time of your divorce need to be modified, you should first speak to a knowledgeable lawyer.
Making a child custody decision that is truly in the best interest of the child or children is the guiding principal of California divorce law. Whatever the parent's situation may be, if they want to move for a better job or feel they deserve more frequent visitation, the judge will only change an existing custody agreement if it can be shown that it clearly benefits the child.
Our firm's lawyers have been helping parents understand and reach the best possible child custody arrangements for many years. We know every family and every situation is unique and personal. We can offer you our years of experience in successfully helping our many clients resolve their problems in a creative and individual fashion.
Understanding the Circumstances for Child Custody Modifications
- There are a number of circumstances that could require a change in your child custody agreement including any of the following:
- A parent with sole physical custody wishes to move to a different city or state and take their children with them.
- Your schedule or job duties have changed and you wish to spend more time with your children.
- Your ex-spouse has been arrested for a crime or has recently been released from jail.
- Your ex-spouse has a new relationship and you have suspicions about their behavior or attitude towards your children.
- One parent becomes aware the other is involved in substance or alcohol abuse that could endanger the children.
Common Child Custody Modification Questions
What Is a Child Custody Modification?
A child custody modification is a legal request to change an existing custody or visitation order. A parent may seek a modification when circumstances have substantially changed or when a different arrangement may better serve the child's best interests. The court will review the circumstances and determine whether changing the existing order is appropriate.
When Can Child Custody Be Modified in California?
Child custody may be modified when circumstances have changed in a way that affects the child's welfare or makes the current arrangement impractical. Changes involving a parent's living situation, employment, availability, health, relationships, or conduct may be relevant depending on the circumstances. The court's primary consideration is the child's best interests.
Can I Request a Custody Modification If My Ex Moves?
A parent's move may affect an existing custody arrangement, particularly when the relocation would significantly interfere with the other parent's time with the child. Depending on the circumstances, the move may provide grounds for seeking a new custody or visitation arrangement. An attorney can help you understand how relocation may affect your existing order.
Can a New Job Affect a Child Custody Agreement?
A substantial change in work hours, job responsibilities, or work location can affect a parent's ability to follow an existing custody schedule. If the current arrangement no longer works because of a significant change in employment, a parent may consider requesting a modification that reflects the family's current circumstances.
Can Substance Abuse Lead to a Custody Modification?
Concerns about a parent's alcohol or substance abuse may be relevant to a custody modification when the behavior creates concerns about the child's safety or well-being. Depending on the circumstances, the court may consider whether changes to custody or visitation are necessary to protect the child's best interests.
Can a Parent Request More Visitation Time?
A parent may seek a change to an existing visitation schedule when circumstances have changed or when a different parenting arrangement may better serve the child. The court will consider the circumstances of the family and the child's best interests when evaluating a request for modified parenting time.
What If My Child's Other Parent Was Arrested?
An arrest involving a parent does not automatically result in a change to custody. However, the circumstances surrounding the arrest may be relevant if they raise concerns about the child's safety or well-being. A parent who believes an existing custody order should be changed can discuss the situation with a family law attorney.
Can a Child's Preferences Affect a Custody Modification?
A child's preferences may be considered by a California court in certain circumstances, but they are not necessarily the deciding factor. The court can consider a variety of information when determining what custody arrangement serves the child's best interests, including the child's age and maturity and the circumstances surrounding their preference.
How Long Does a Child Custody Modification Take?
The time required to resolve a custody modification depends on the circumstances of the case, the issues in dispute, the court's schedule, and whether the parents can reach an agreement. Some matters may be resolved through an agreement, while contested cases can require additional court proceedings before a final decision is made.
Why Should I Work With a Burbank Child Custody Modification Attorney?
Child custody modifications can affect when and how you spend time with your children, making careful legal guidance important. A Burbank child custody modification attorney can review your existing order, assess the circumstances that have changed, and help you understand your options for seeking a custody or visitation arrangement that serves your goals and your child's best interests.
If any of these or other significant change occurs that you feel warrants a modification in your existing child custody agreement you should call our offices at (818) 672-1562 and consult with one of our attorneys.
