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When is it time to change your child custody order?

On Behalf of | Jun 17, 2022 | Child Custody

It may have been a couple of years since you first set up your child custody arrangement. At the time, the parenting plan may have worked well around your child’s school schedule and your work. Now, life is looking a bit different and you feel you need it’s time to update your custody order.

Before you make alterations to your arrangement, you will – ideally – get the permission of your child’s other parent. It’s always best when co-parents can work together for their children’s sake. When that’s not possible, however, you can still ask the court to intercede and make the modifications for you. Just make sure that you’re asking for a good reason.

Judges consider the well-being of your child

You’ll have to present a case for why you wish to change your parenting plan to a judge. They’ll be the big decider if your agreement will change, and they make that decision solely on what’s best for the child – not the parents. 

Several situations might move a judge to consider altering your custody order:

  • Your child is at risk of physical or psychological damage because of neglect or abuse by your co-parent.
  • Your child’s other parent has a substance abuse problem or has committed a crime. 
  • Your child’s other parent isn’t following the original custody order, depriving you of parenting time unfairly.
  • Your child may simply want to live with you due to personality conflicts with their other parent. 
  • There has been a change in your or the other parent’s living situation or work schedule that prompted the agreement alteration.

If you’re seeking to alter your child custody order then you may want to seek experienced legal support to ensure that you fully understand the process and the steps you need to take.