Change is a fact of life. Following a divorce, spouses go in different directions and start the next chapter of their respective lives. As time goes on, the circumstances that governed their divorce decree are likely to change. As such, divorce orders may need to be modified.
If you need to adjust a custody or support order, you will have to petition the court and receive approval from a judge. Make sure you work with a trusted Fort Collins modification lawyer as you navigate this process. I have over 15 years of experience practicing family law and have helped numerous families successfully modify child custody, child support, and alimony orders.
If a change in your circumstances necessitates a change to the child support payment you are making or receiving monthly, you may be able to request a modification. In Colorado, the change in child support must be an increase or decrease of at least 10%.
A court may grant your modification request if:
You lost your job
The other parent of your child got a pay raise or promotion
You are now supporting another child or multiple children
Health insurance or childcare costs have changed
Your child requires special education or has other special needs
You need to move or relocate
Your child has been emancipated
I represent both sides of a child support modification request – both the parent requesting the change and the parent disputing the change.
Modifying Child Custody in Colorado: What You Need To Know
In Colorado, you can only request a visitation or custody arrangement two years after filing a similar motion. Colorado courts also prioritize the child’s best interests when making any decisions to modify custody.
Generally speaking, courts will not change custody arrangements unless:
Both parents agree to the change
The child has been integrated into the moving party’s family, to which the other party consents
The current situation endangers the child or threatens their emotional development
There are many situations that may convince a court to modify a custody agreement, though you will have to provide substantial evidence. I can help you build a strong case to present to the court.
Modifying Spousal Maintenance
If a judge decided your alimony award, it is subject to modification. If you and your spouse decided your alimony award, it may or may not be modifiable, depending on the circumstances of your agreement. I can review your existing alimony order and determine if you are able to request modifications.
If you can request a modification, the court will have to approve it. You will have to prove that a change in your circumstances necessitates a change to the alimony award.
Valid reasons for requesting a modification include:
A substantial change in income
A substantial change in the cost of living (for example, if you relocated)
A change in childcare or health care expenses
A sudden loss of assets or property
Work with a Fort Collins Modification Attorney
Requesting a modification to a family law order can prove difficult – it can help to have a knowledgeable lawyer on your side. I offer comprehensive counsel to individuals who need to change their custody and support orders. Rest assured I take the time to get to know each of my clients so that I can provide truly personalized representation.
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