Child custody modifications are common
At the Law Offices of Ronald K. Stitch, we commonly help clients who need modifications to child custody orders. The state of California has guidelines in place to ensure that both parents continue to support their children, even when their lives change. There are various reasons that custody or visitation modifications may be needed. This can include:
- Relocation. If one parent moves, the will usually require a change to custody or visitation agreements.
- Criminal issues. If a parent runs into trouble with the law, the other parent may need to request custody or visitation changes.
- Physical abuse. If a parent physically abuses a child, law enforcement should be involved, and the other parent should request custody modifications.
- Substance abuse. When one parent abuses alcohol or drugs, changes to child custody may need to occur on a temporary or permanent basis.
Child support may need to change
There are various reasons that child support modifications could be requests. If the financial situation of the paying spouse improves or worsens, then child support may need to be adjusted accordingly. It is important to understand that child support is mandatory, and neither spouse can change the payment amounts without approval from the California family court.
Spousal support may change
Whether you are paying spousal support or receiving payments, modifications may be necessary after the divorce. This could be due to the receiving spouse remarrying or even actively working to avoid remarrying so they can continue to receive alimony payments. It may also be necessary to make changes if the paying spouse’s financial situation changes dramatically.
Mediation may be an option
At the Law Offices of Ronald K. Stitch, we offer mediation services for clients who want to resolve these issues through a more amicable and efficient process. Mediation provides a calmer environment to go through these processes, something that is helpful when there are children between the two parties.
Let us help make the adjustments you need
When two people separate, their lives will inevitably change. This can lead to once viable divorce agreements no longer tenable. When changes need to be made to child support, child custody, alimony, and more, you need to work with a skilled attorney. Please understand that no changes to final divorce arrangements can happen without working through the courts. At the Law Offices of Ronald K. Stitch, we are ready to help you through this. Our Westlake Village modifications attorneys understand these laws and will ensure you are treated fairly. You can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or by calling 818-237-4574.