What are the underlying causes when child custody and visitation orders are modified or updated? What are the typical scenarios where the parties need to revisit their existing child custody and visitation orders?
The only constant in life is change, and the custody and visitation orders which were issued at the end of your divorce are going to evolve and change along with the lives of each parent and the children themselves. There will come a time when you need to modify existing orders to reflect the realities of the situation. If both parents agree upon proposed changes, you simply need them to be written up and submitted to the Court for review and approval. It is not prudent or wise to simply make changes on your own (even if in agreement with your co-parent). If the co-parents are not in agreement the divorce and family law attorneys at Dodd & Dodd can advise you on how best to gain a hearing with our Family Court and accomplish your goals and objectives.
Some of the most common events when child custody and visitation orders are modified or updated include when each child begins school, important changes in the needs of a child or when there is a substantial change in the life of either or both of the co-parents. Prior to starting school, it is much easier for the Court to establish a more even arrangement between the co-parents. Once a child reaches the age to start school, the co-parents must work through issues such as which school the child will attend and the relationship of their respective homes to that school. If they both live in the same school district or general neighborhood the process of custody and visitation is much less challenging. If the co-parents are not close in proximity, the challenges of resolving not only the choice of school but of related custody and visitation schedules can become quite contentious.
Changes in the child’s own life may create a situation where child custody and visitation orders are modified or updated. The health of the child may change, or an accident resulting in seriously injury can change the existing rhythms of a child’s life. Once the child nears or reaches the age of 14 they may legally have an input on custody and visitation arrangements. Changes in the parent’s lives can also impact these arrangements. A new work schedule, a required relocation or planned move and even a new relationship can create challenges requiring a change in existing orders regarding your children.
Do you have questions regarding changing or modifying existing orders after a divorce in Louisville or Louisville? We invite you to review the strong recommendations of our former clients and contact us or call 502-584-1108 to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced divorce and family law attorneys.
