Walla Walla Attorney Modifying Child Support and Child Custody Orders
Life is unpredictable, so your circumstances may change at any moment. Sometimes, the terms of your child support or child custody order may no longer work due to a change in circumstances. If this happens to you, it’s important to understand your right to request a modification.
The court order modification lawyers at Pacific Northwest Family Law can assist with every step in the process of changing the terms of a court order. We will work tirelessly to ensure you can secure a court order that is in your family’s best interests. Call 360-926-9112 to schedule a consultation regarding your case.
Who Can Request Modifications in Child Support and Child Custody Cases?
In the state of Washington, both parents have the right to ask the court to modify child support or child custody orders.
What Types of Modifications Can Be Made to Child Support or Child Custody Orders?
Some of the changes that parents may request include:
- Increase or decrease in child support payments
- Changes to the child’s living arrangements
- Changes to the non-custodial parent’s visitation schedule
- Changes to the child’s holiday or vacation schedule
It’s important to note that the change must be approved before it takes effect. You must comply with the terms of the initial court order until the judge has approved your modification request.
Valid Reasons to Modify Child Support or Parenting Plans
Parents have the right to request a modification if there has been a significant change in their circumstances. Some of the most common reasons why parents ask to modify their child support orders include:
- One or both parents lost their job.
- One or both parents received an increase in pay.
- There has been a change in the custody agreement.
Some of the most common reasons why parents ask to modify their child custody orders include:
- One parent is relocating to a different city or state.
- The child’s schedule has changed.
- The child is no longer safe with the custodial parent.
- It is in the best interests of the child to modify the initial order.
If you are requesting a modification, you must show the court proof that these changes have occurred.
How Often Can You Modify Child Support and Child Custody Orders in Walla Walla?
Parents can request child custody or child support modifications whenever a change is warranted. However, the rules for modifying child support orders vary based on how long it has been since the last modification or order was issued.
If the child support order has been in effect for less than one year, it cannot be modified unless the requesting party provides proof of a substantial change in their circumstances. If the child support order has been in effect for at least two years, parents do not need to provide proof of a substantial change in circumstances as long as the modification is needed to accommodate a change in income.
Book An Appointment With Pacific Northwest Family Law to Discuss Your Court Order Modification Case
If you are interested in modifying your child support or custody order, seek legal representation from the family attorneys at Pacific Northwest Family Law. Let us guide you through the process of modifying your court order and fight to achieve the results you desire. To schedule a consultation with our Walla Walla court order modification attorneys, call 360-926-9112 or book your appointment online.