Custody Modifications: How and When to Seek a Custody Lawyer Near Me

Did you know that in around 51% of custody cases, both parents agree that the mother should have custody? Concluding a custody case without disagreements and fights is rewarding, but unfortunately, that isn’t always the outcome. Child custody arrangements during or after a divorce can often turn problematic and bitter, significantly impacting your child’s well-being.

Whether it’s establishing initial arrangements or petitioning to modify existing orders, seeking assistance from a professional Custody Lawyer near me is crucial. If you aim to resolve your child custody battle through modifications, here’s how and when you can seek help from lawyers.

Custody Modification

Custody modification refers to the legal process of altering existing custody arrangements. Life doesn't stand still, and things can shift, making modifications necessary. But starting this process means meeting certain legal standards, and that's where having a professional lawyer alongside you becomes crucial.

Role of Custody Lawyer

Having a custody lawyer is really important when you're trying to make changes in current arrangements. Their experience in family law will guide you through all the complicated legal stuff, give smart advice, and collect evidence to help your case in court. These aspects can make a big difference in how things turn out.

When to Seek a Custody Lawyer Near Me for Custody Modifications

Deciding when to seek a custody lawyer for modifications involves dealing with these specific circumstances that warrant legal intervention. This includes:

1.      Significant Changes in Life Circumstances

If either of the parents has experienced any major life changes, like job relocations, remarriage, health issues, or financial alterations, which could impact the existing custody arrangement, you can hire a lawyer to make modifications so your orders align with the current situation of your lives.

2.      Child's Safety Concerns

If there are genuine worries about the child's safety or well-being when they are living with the other parent, legal intervention becomes necessary. A custody lawyer near me not only investigates this issue, but upon finding evidence of abuse, they modify custody for the child's protection.

3.      Relocation without Agreement

Relocation without agreement in child custody cases can be legally complex and emotionally sensitive. When a parent wishes to move with a child and the other parent doesn't agree to the relocation, it often leads to a legal dispute.

A lawyer, while prioritising the best interest of the child, will present you with the different options available to you, such as mediation, negotiation, or going to trial, and help you choose the most suitable course of action.

4.      Parental Interference

When one parent consistently disrupts the other parent's relationship with the child, disregards visitation rights, or challenges the agreed-upon custody arrangement, you seek help from a custody lawyer near me to enforce the existing arrangement or seek modifications in the order.

5.      Child's Wishes or Preferences

 As children grow older, their preferences regarding custody might change. A custody lawyer not only understands this but will also help to modify current arrangements to meet the child’s wishes and needs.

6.      Parenting Time Changes

 A modification can be made if parents want to adjust their schedule and timing. For example, if one parent's work schedule changes or if there's a need for more flexibility due to the child's school or extracurricular activities, the existing visitation or custody schedule might need to be modified. In such a situation, a lawyer can help you figure out a new visitation adjustment.

7.      Legal Custody

If one parent becomes more involved or less involved in the child's life, a modification to legal custody might be warranted to ensure the child's best interests are met. Legal custody refers to the right and responsibility to make major decisions about the child's upbringing. This includes decisions related to education, healthcare, religious upbringing, and other significant aspects of the child's life. If you want to make modifications, you would need a Custody Lawyer near me who can alter who holds decision-making authority.

8.      Preparation for Court Proceedings

 When anticipating or engaging in court proceedings regarding custody modifications, having a custody lawyer is crucial to guiding through the legal process, representing interests, and presenting the case convincingly in front of the judge.

9.      Signs of Substance Abuse

When evidence of substance abuse by a parent arises, making modifications to custody becomes crucial. Substance abuse encompasses alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription medications, and any other addictive substances that cause parents to lose control and endanger the life of their child. During such situations, a custody lawyer can assist in building a case to modify orders for the sake of the child's safety.

How to Find the Right Custody Lawyer Near Me for Modification of Orders

Here is how you can find a professional and experienced custody lawyer for your child:

1.      Research Online

Use websites, social media, and legal directories to find custody lawyers near me. Look for their reviews and information about their experience in family law and handling custody cases.

2.      Ask for Referrals

Seek recommendations from friends, family, or acquaintances who have gone through similar custody battles. Personal referrals can provide information about the attorney's skills and approach.

3.      Check Bar Associations

You can also look in local or state bar associations, as they have directories of attorneys specialising in family law. These listings can help you identify qualified lawyers in your area.

4.      Evaluate Experience and Expertise

Inquire about the lawyer's experience in handling custody cases. Look for a lawyer who has a strong track record in family law and a deep understanding of the local court system.

5.      Check Permits

Lastly, verify the lawyer's credentials, including their licensing, certifications, and any disciplinary actions through the state bar association to ensure that your case is in reliable hands.

Conclusion

Seeking a custody modification is not an easy process. It requires you to understand the process, know when to seek legal assistance, and be informed about your rights so that you can get the best possible outcome for yourself and your child.

Having a reliable custody lawyer near me makes this complex and emotionally taxing process easier. They ultimately focused on safeguarding the child's well-being by handling this sensitive matter professionally.