Many times, after a couple has divorced, their new lives tend to go in different directions. In addition, the needs of their children may change as well. This often will make the custody arrangement the parents had worked out during the divorce difficult to maintain. If you find yourself in this type of situation, contact a Family Court Lawyer in Suffolk County NY for help in correcting the situation.
When you realize your current custody order is no longer working, try to discuss the issue with your former spouse. Many times, if the spouses can agree on making changes to their arrangement, a Family Court Lawyer in Suffolk County NY, will only need to draw up papers, file them and then a judge can approve them. This is often the easiest and simplest way to deal with custody change issues.
Unfortunately, if you and your ex-spouse are unable to come to an amicable agreement, the situation can be a bit more difficult. To change a custody order in this type of instance, you will most likely need to go back to court and start a new legal process regarding your child’s custody arrangement. If this happens, you will definitely need the help of a family court lawyer.
If the matter must go before a judge, then a motion or petition will need to be filed. This document must clearly detail why the custody agreement needs to be changed. These documents will also need to explain what the new proposed arrangement would be.
Once the papers have been filed, a hearing will be set up so the matter can be heard before a judge. In most circumstances, the judge will only change a custody order if significant changes have occurred in the child’s life. It is up to the party requesting the change to prove these circumstances exist. A lawyer will be able to assist in this matter.
If you find you are divorced and need to alter your custody agreement, seeing a lawyer is one of the first steps in dealing with the issue. By hiring a lawyer experienced in these matters, you will find the process can be accomplished in a smooth and timely fashion.
