After completing the divorce process, you will be issued a divorce order or divorce decree that provides instructions regarding the rights and responsibilities of each party. This order will include instructions on things like spousal support, child custody, how assets will be divided, and much more. Much of the order will be a one-time command, such as having the marital home put into one of the party’s name. Other things, however, will have an impact on your life for years to come.
While these orders are intended to remain in place indefinitely, there are times when modifications are needed. When this happens, you’ll need to speak with a Florida divorce lawyer to get it all worked out. The following are some of the most common reasons why it may become necessary to modify an original divorce order.
Substantial Changes in Circumstances
If there is a significant change in the material situation of one of the parents, it may be necessary to update the order to reflect those changes. For example, if you are paying spousal support and you lose your job and have to take lower paying employment, it is likely a good idea to get a modification. Petitioning the courts to reduce (or even eliminate) your spousal support obligations can help make it easier to survive on your new income.
Adjusting to Needs of Children as Needed
As children grow up, their needs change significantly. Altering your divorce decree as your kids get older often makes a lot of sense. It typically isn’t necessary to contact a divorce attorney every time your kid picks up a new hobby, but it can be helpful when they begin school, start driving, and go through other big events. Modifying your agreement can help ensure both parents are still able to foster a strong relationship with their kids and that the children’s needs are being met.
One Parent is Relocating
If one parent is relocating to a place that is more than an hour away, it will almost always be necessary to adjust your agreement. Deciding who will get the children, where they will go to school, and how parenting time will be handled is very important. Having all this written down by the courts can help avoid conflict and misunderstandings.
Other Situations as Agreed
When most people think about modifying a divorce order, they assume that there is going to be a lot of conflict. The reality is, however, that modifications can be made by a mutual agreement between both parties. In many cases, both parties agree that a change is necessary and simply have their divorce lawyer submit the modification to the courts for approval. This can be a quick and affordable option for ensuring the order works for everyone.
Get the Legal Help You Need
Anytime you need to have your divorce order modified, it is important that you work with a family lawyer who can ensure everything is handled correctly. Whether the modification is something both parties want or there is significant conflict, we can help you through the entire process. Contact Farber Law to discuss your situation and get the help you need.
About the Author: Helena Y. Farber is an attorney in Aventura, Florida, whose practice is concentrated in the areas divorce and family law. She can be reached at (305) 520-9205 or via email at hyf@farberlawpa.com.
Disclaimer: The attorney makes this Blog available for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide specific legal advice. By using this blog site you understand that there is no attorney-client relationship between you and the Blog. The Blog should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state.