Child custody is a crucial part of a divorce involving children. You and your spouse can agree on this subject and make it official, or the court can make an order based on the child’s best interest. Nonetheless, it’s possible to modify the existing order.
The following are three reasons to change a child custody order:
Physical relocation
If the parent with physical custody is relocating to a different state or country and has decided the kids will remain in New Jersey, you may request a modification. This is especially necessary if the move will harm the kids and the noncustodial parent.
If you are the one relocating, you can have the other parent take physical custody and vice versa. However, this may not be a big deal if the parent relocating doesn’t have physical custody. All you may need to do is change the parenting plan and create more time for virtual visits.
Abandonment
A custodial parent should ensure that the kids eat, go to school, are groomed and so on. Actions contrary to this may constitute negligence or abandonment. Thus, when you realize your children are missing from school for unexplained reasons, stay at home without an adult or lack other daily needs, you may request a modification.
However, before doing this, reach out to your co-parent to find out the root of the problem and suggest solutions. If they don’t follow agreed solutions, they may be neglecting the kids.
A change in a child’s needs
If your kid’s physical, mental or emotional needs have changed and one parent is best suited for such situations, you may modify the custody order.
Child custody orders are not permanent – they can be changed. It may help to get legal guidance to increase the chances of your request being approved.
