Maplewood Child Custody Modification Lawyer

Once a court passes an order regarding child custody and visitation rights, that order remains in full force and effect until that same court modifies the order or until the parties are able to reach a signed consent order modifying it it. If you want to modify the terms of an existing order for any reason, you may need to go through the formal motion process, unless you are able to reach an agreement with your child’s other parent directly.

Assistance from our experienced custody attorneys can be crucial to making sure this process goes as smoothly as possible. By working with a Maplewood child custody modification lawyer, you could better understand your rights and more effectively pursue the outcome that best serves you and your child’s interests.

Valid Reasons for Seeking an Alteration of Custody

In a broad sense, the foundation of any child custody modification application should be that the requested modification  better serves the interests of the child. It is generally not sufficient to show that an updated order would be equally or slightly more beneficial for the child compared to the current order.

Additionally, you must provide proof and substantiate that here has been a significant change in circumstances since the order you are seeking to modify became effective, that warrants a modification of the prior order. Some examples of grounds that could potentially warrant a modification of a custody or visitation rights in New Jersey include one parent:

• Relocating due to a job or career change
• Subjecting the minor to physical or emotional abuse
• Endangering the minor through their own substance dependency and abuse
• Failing to abide by the terms of the existing order, after other attempts to resolve the issue have been unsuccessful
• Being physically or cognitively incapacitated to the extent that they can no longer provide proper care for the child, or passing away

A Maplewood attorney could discuss a particular child custody order in a confidential setting and offer guidance about whether changing it might be possible given the prospective petitioner’s situation.

Basic Child Custody Modification Procedures in Maplewood

Proceedings for altering a custody agreement in New Jersey are sometimes as simple as both parents jointly requesting a change based on mutual understanding of their changed circumstances. However, if a child’s other parent does not agree that a modification is necessary, the parent who wants the change may need to file an application  seeking a modification.

Depending on the information presented in this initial application, the court may order a custody evaluation to best serve the parties and the child. During the evaluation, both parties present evidence supporting their position on the proposed change. Representation from a seasoned lawyer can be especially important during disputed child custody hearings in Maplewood.

Seek Help from a Maplewood Child Custody Modification Attorney

Modifying the terms of a custody order in New Jersey can be a time-consuming and procedurally complex process, especially if you and your co-parent do not agree about an alteration. Fortunately, you have help available from a dedicated legal professional who has helped people like you resolve similar situations before.

Our Maplewood child custody modification lawyers could provide the custom-tailored legal support you need to preserve your child’s interests. Call our office today for a consultation.