Columbus Ohio Family Law Attorneys Handling Modifications
Most people would like to think that by the time their final divorce decree is issued they are finished having to make decisions regarding matters such as child custody, child support and spousal support (or alimony). The truth is life circumstances often change and require these issues and others to be revisited for modifications to be made to those existing agreements or court orders.
The family law attorneys at White & Fish, L.P.A., Inc. are experienced in requesting and resolving modifications to domestic relations court orders. Our goal is always to help individuals and families in Ohio work through changes amicably when possible. If you have a modification question you would like to discuss, contact our offices to schedule an appointment to learn about your options and how we can help you.
Our office handles all types of modifications to existing separation agreements in dissolution cases as well as divorce decrees and other custody orders pertaining to issues such as:
- Child support
- Child custody
- Spousal support (alimony)
- Visitation
- Child relocation or parent relocation
- Move-aways
The attorneys in our firm will first have a detailed conversation with you about the change in circumstances that you believe necessitates a modification. We will examine the facts of your situation to determine if they fit the legal parameters for requesting a modification, such as changing child custody or a parenting time or visitation schedule and whether it's in the best interest of the child. Often, there is no time limit on how often a change can be made, but the courts scrutinize the reasoning and supporting evidence closely, denying frivolous or poorly supported requests.
In the case of a relocation or move-away situation, we understand the requirements of the Uniform Child Custody Act (also known as the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act). If Ohio is your child's home state and other factors apply, you may have the right to modify an agreement or court order issued in another state. However, the best interest of the child standard will guide the court in reaching any determination.
When it comes to spousal support, and sometimes child support, you need to demonstrate a substantial change in financial condition to have a modification granted for an increase or a decrease in amount. Regarding spousal support, our lawyers analyze your separation agreement or divorce decree to determine if your right to modify spousal support is prohibited or limited. Your agreements or decrees must have a specific reservation of jurisdiction by the court for you to be able to modify spousal support, so it is important to have your agreement drafted and reviewed by an experienced attorney.
When it comes to modifications, often you will need to prove that the reason was not foreseeable, such as a loss of a job or an opportunity that requires relocation. We are here to help you shape your argument and modification request to increase the likelihood that your request will be granted by the court. Contact us Link to Contact Us
