Tampa Child Custody Modification Attorney
If there is one thing that is constant in life, it is change. If a child custody court order was issued pertaining to you and your child, there are times when that order may simply not be practical any longer. If your personal circumstances change and it is impacting the child custody order, you can petition the court for a modification. However, these cases are extremely complex and difficult to prove. Below, our Tampa child custody modification attorney outlines when you can change an existing order and the process to follow.
When Can You Modify a Child Custody Order?
In ideal situations, parents can agree to a change in the child custody arrangement. In these instances, the new plan is submitted to the court and as long as it is fair, the court will approve the change.
When parents cannot agree, they may have to go to court to resolve the issue. When petitioning the court to modify a child custody order, you will have to show that there has been a significant change in circumstances that warrants a modification. You will also have to show that the changed circumstances were unforeseeable at the time the original order was issued. Some common examples of a significant change in circumstances are as follows:
- A parent becomes employed, particularly if they were unemployed at the time of the original order,
- A parent loses a job,
- Other unforeseen changes in a parent’s financial situation,
- The needs of the child change,
- The preferences of the child change, if they are of a certain age and maturity,
- A parent or the child becomes very sick or injured,
- One parent develops a drug or alcohol addiction,
- A child is abused by one parent,
- A parent is convicted of a felony, or
- A parent needs to move due to employment or other legitimate reasons.
How to Modify a Child Custody Order in Tampa
Modifying a child custody order is a complicated and emotionally challenging process. It is important to have a Tampa child custody modification attorney review the facts of your case to determine that you have grounds to file a motion and who can advise on the evidence necessary in your case. A lawyer can also negotiate with the other side to give you the best chance of obtaining a favorable outcome.
If you cannot reach an agreement with the other side, you may have to take the matter to court. You will petition the court for a change and present evidence supporting your arguments. The other side will also present evidence and their own arguments before a judge will make the final decision. Many people seeking child custody modifications have never been to court before, so it is critical that you have legal advice throughout the proceedings.
Our Child Custody Modification Attorney in Tampa Can Help You Through the Process
If you require a child custody modification, it is critical that you do not go it alone. At Florida Law Advisers, P.A., our Tampa child custody modification attorney can guide you through the process and prepare a strong case to give you the best chance of a successful outcome. Call us today at 1 (800) 990-7763 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more.
