Riverside Divorce Attorney: Modifications
Modifications of Child Support, Spousal Support & Child Custody Orders
When a significant change in circumstances occurs after a divorce, the parties can ask the court for a modification of the original court orders and agreements. Agreements or court orders in regards to child support, spousal support, child custody or visitation are determined based on the needs and circumstances of the parties involved at the time the divorce is finalized. What originally worked in a divorce settlement may present a number of difficulties later due to life changes. If you need to make a modification to a court ordered divorce arrangement, contact an experienced Riverside divorce attorney to get help with the process.
Modifications to child support can be made if you can demonstrate to the court that a drastic change in circumstances has occurred. Common types of modification include lowering the amount of support you are paying, or if you are the one receiving child support you can ask the court to modify your original order for more money. Circumstances that typically warrant a modification include:
- An unexpected job loss or lay-off
- A serious illness, injury, or medical emergency that prevents you from working
- If the other parent suddenly got a raise in income
- A change to the child's needs and expenses
- Relocations of either parent
Spousal support modifications fall under the same guidelines as child support. If you are trying to modify your spousal support order for more money, you must demonstrate that a significant change in circumstances warrants more money. Similarly, if you are the one paying spousal support and you want to pay less, you must prove that you have experienced some type of hardship that justifies modifying the order.
Divorce Lawyer in Riverside
If you are interested in modifying a court order, it is best to work with a knowledgeable Riverside family law attorney who can inform you of your legal rights and represent you in court or at any hearings you may need to attend. At Hanson, Gorian & Bradford, we have great deal of experience handling modifications on behalf of clients throughout Riverside, Temecula, and Murrieta, and would be happy to meet with you to discuss your case in more detail.
Contact a Riverside divorce lawyer at our firm if you would like to make a modification to your existing child support or spousal support orders.