When Circumstances Have Changed: Modifying A Current Custody Arrangement

Custody arrangements and visitation schedules are designed to give children a predictable schedule of when they are going to see both parents. Once a visitation schedule is finalized, it can be difficult to get the schedule changed if both parties can't agree on a change. If your life circumstances are different, if you get married, or you find a great job that is farther away, it may be possible to get the current arrangement changed if the court decides the circumstances warrant the change. The court will look at the lives of your children and try to come up with a resolution that best serves their needs.

When You Previously Lost Custody

If you have a limited visitation schedule because of problems in your past, there will come a time when you get your life back together. If you are now stable, got any treatment you needed, and have the ability to care for your children, this is enough to petition the court for a change in the custody arrangement. When you don't have physical custody of your children and your visitation is limited because of bad choices you made, you can turn your life around and try to regain the custody you lost.

If You Have Concerns Regarding the Other Parent

Your children may begin to tell you about a partner of your ex that is now living in the home that they don't feel comfortable with. While this is not a reason for a custody change, subsequent partners in and out of the home may be enough for a change to occur. If your children are nervous about visiting your ex when they never were before, it may be time to address the issue in court. Any concerns regarding substance abuse or domestic violence should be reported immediately and addressed through a modification of custody.

The Wishes of Your Children

There may come a time when your children decide they want to live with you full-time. Even when your ex hasn't done anything wrong, the wishes of your children are important. If your children do not want to visit with your ex as much as they used to, it's possible that the custody order can change.

Custody arrangements provide children and families with a solid routine to follow each week. If there has been a significant change, it may be time to try to modify the existing arrangement through a family attorney.