One of the most critical factors parents keep in mind when going through the process of divorce is protecting the children. A divorce or separation can have a profound impact on the rest of a child’s life, which is why the courts focus custody matters on the child’s best interests. However, life is prone to changes. If your current custody agreement is no longer working, you may be able to modify the custody agreement with the help of a Suffolk family lawyer. At Simonetti & Associates, voted best divorce lawyer on Long Island every year since 2014, our priority is to advance the best interests of your children after circumstances change. Our team has helped countless families obtain reasonable modifications to custody orders. Continue reading to learn more about child custody modification.
Child Custody Modifications
If your existing custody agreement is not working anymore, you have the right to petition the court for a custody modification. In order to achieve this, the changes must be in your child’s best interests. You must also be able to show that significant changes in circumstances have occurred. Some of the most common reasons parents seek a modification of custody may include:
- One parent is dealing with substance abuse issues.
- An unstable home environment.
- Domestic violence in one parent’s home.
- The child is requesting a change (the child is over 12 years old).
- One parent has substance abuse problems.
- The custodial parent moves frequently.
- The custodial parent has an unpredictable work schedule.
- Significant changes in income.
No matter what is currently taking place, it is essential to have a Suffolk family lawyer review your case to determine if your child custody agreement should be modified. If you and your former spouse have mutually agreed that there should be a change in custody, you can work out a new agreement without modifying the existing agreement. While this can be a practical short-term solution, there are downsides to informal custody arrangements. If the other parent wants to go back to the original arrangement, you have no legal standing to prevent them from doing otherwise. Seeking modification through formal channels with the help of our team is the best way to safeguard your rights.
Contact Our Suffolk Family Lawyer
At Simonetti & Associates, our team is well versed in child custody modifications. We will work with you to minimize any stress surrounding your custody battle and protect your child’s best interests. You should not hesitate to set up a case evaluation to discuss your rights and needs. To learn more about modifying custody agreements, be sure to contact our Suffolk family lawyer today!
