Life is unpredictable. Circumstances change, and what once seemed like a fair child custody agreement (Parenting Plan) or child support agreement may no longer work. Whether you need to adjust a custody, timesharing, or child support arrangement, filing a modification can help ensure the best outcome for you and your child.
Most people think that just because you have a written agreement for timesharing or child support that it cannot be changed. However, that is not the case. There are hundreds of examples where the Courts will modify a custody, timesharing, or child support agreement. In addition, many times, both parties recognize that there has been a change in circumstances and we can put together an agreement that evolves with your family’s current situation.Â
TK Law’s office in Altamonte Springs, Florida, almost exactly halfway in between the Orange County and Seminole County Courthouses. This was intentional, when you are considering modifying your Parenting Plan or Child Support, you want lawyers that know the law and the way the local judges rule on similar circumstances. Our experienced family law attorneys provide trusted legal representation for all custody, visitation, and child support modifications. If your situation has changed, we can help you figure out a plan and if necessary, petition the court a modification.
Do You Need to Modify Your Custody or Child Support Agreement?
To speak with a knowledgeable Florida family law attorney today Call 407-834-4847
When Can You Modify Custody, Timesharing, or Child Support?
Florida law requires that any request for custody, child support, or visitation modification be based on a material and substantial change in circumstances and the modification must be in the best interests of the minor child(ren). Some common reasons for modifying a court order include:
- A significant increase or decrease in either parent’s income;
- A need to relocate for work, family, or other essential reasons;
- A parent denying contact or failing to uphold the current custody, timesharing, or visitation agreement;
- A parent deliberately alienating the minor child against the other parent;
- A parent failing to exercise the timesharing previously agreed upon or awarded leaving the other parent with a substantial portion of the responsibility;
- A true emergency that would result in irreparable harm that could not be resolved later and actual, articulable evidence that the Court can rely on to support your arguments. Generally speaking, family law and modification cases are generally very fact-dependent. Our family law attorneys will work diligently to present a strong case for your modification and ensure the court understands the necessity of your request.
Important Considerations for Parents
Even if both parents agree on a permanent modification, court approval is usually required before making any changes to a custody, timesharing, or child support order. Importantly, by ratifying the agreement with the Court, it avoids confusion and enforcement issues in the future.
- Continue following the existing court order until the judge approves your modification.
-  Do not adjust child support payments without a court order—even if your co-parent verbally agrees. It is important to notify the Court, the Department of Revenue and Child Support Enforcement of any changes to child support. We have seen it many times where the Department of Revenue and Child Support Enforcement Departments may find that you are in violation of the child support order and try to suspend your driver’s license or enter a judgement against you based on a mistake over the amount of child support that has been paid or unpaid. Â
- Protect yourself legally by working with an experienced family law attorney to ensure your rights and financial obligations are properly addressed. It is always good to have these conversations and agreements documented and in writing. However, it is even better to have proper agreements that protect you from future court actions and protect your rights in case you need to enforce the terms of the agreement.Â
Enforcing Custody, Timesharing, and Child Support Orders
If your former spouse is violating your custody, visitation, or child support agreement, legal action may be necessary. The key legal analysis that is involved in enforcing a custody, timesharing, or child support order
Our attorneys can petition the court to enforce the terms of your divorce decree, ensuring compliance with:
✔ Child support obligations
✔ Visitation and timesharing schedules
✔ Parental responsibility (decision making)
Don’t let a co-parent disregard your agreement or court order—let us help you take the appropriate legal steps to protect your rights.
Contact TK Law for Custody, Visitation, or Support Modifications
At TK Law, we understand the importance of child custody, visitation, and support modifications. When you visit our office, we will provide an honest assessment of your case and your chances of success.
- Call us today at (407-834-4847) to schedule a consultation.
- Payment plans available | Major credit cards accepted