Child Custody Modification Lawyer in Roswell

As families face evolving circumstances, they may find their initial child custody arrangements no longer work for them. If your situation requires modifying an existing custody order to better meet your child’s needs, Speights Law can help.

Our Roswell family law lawyer can guide you through the process, whether it involves changing visitation schedules, living arrangements, or other aspects of the custody order. Our legal professionals have helped Georgia families resolve challenging family disputes for more than 20 years.

Call us today for a private consultation to explore your legal options and how our Roswell child custody modification lawyer can lead your case.

How Child Custody Modifications Work in Georgia

A child custody modification involves changing an agreement that governs who makes decisions that affect a child’s health and well-being. This may involve altering visitation schedules, adjusting living arrangements, or modifying parental duties based on new circumstances.

Common Reasons for Changing a Child Custody Agreement

Several common reasons for seeking a modification of custody arrangements include:

Changes in employment: If a parent gets a new job that requires them to change their daily routine or lifestyle, a revised custody agreement may be necessary.
Relocation: If one parent plans to move a considerable distance away, it may affect visitation schedules and living arrangements.
Child’s needs: As children grow, their needs, preferences, and activities change, which might require adjustments in custody arrangements.
Parental fitness: Changes in a parent’s ability to care for the child, such as health issues, substance abuse, or criminal activity, can prompt a review of custody terms.
Co-parenting challenges: If parents find it challenging to cooperate or follow the existing plan, modifications might be needed to ensure the child’s stability and well-being.

When Can Families Consider a Custody Agreement Change?

Family courts in Georgia allow parties to modify a custody agreement in Georgia when it is apparent that a change is needed. Your reasons may involve any of the situations listed above.

However, note that the judge in your case will always consider doing what is in the best interests of the child. This means any changes to an existing custody agreement must serve your child first.

Our Roswell child custody modifications lawyers can advise you on whether your case meets the criteria for changing an agreement.

Modifying a Custody Arrangement Starts in Court

Changing a child custody arrangement is a formal procedure that starts with a court petition. This petition must clearly outline the reasons for the requested modification and provide evidence supporting the need for the change.

The court may require mediation to help parents reach an agreement. If mediation is unsuccessful, a court hearing will be scheduled. During the hearing, both parents can present their case, and the judge will decide based on the child’s best interests.

If the court approves the modification, it will issue a new custody order. Both parents must adhere to the terms of the updated order. We can advise you about the process for modifying an order. Call Speights Law today for a private consultation.

How Our Lawyers for Child Custody Changes in Roswell Can Help You

Modifying a custody arrangement can be a complex process, but having a legal professional to handle it for you can make it easier to manage. Our Roswell child custody modification request lawyer will explain Georgia’s child custody laws and how they affect your case.

We also will:

Evaluate whether your circumstances warrant a modification and guide you through the legal process.
Build your case and gather evidence to support it (e.g., financial records, medical records, character witness testimony, etc.)
Prepare your legal paperwork to ensure it is accurately completed and submitted to the court on time.
Lead negotiations with the other parent to work through child custody issues and reach an agreement that best benefits your child.
Represent you in court and advocate on your behalf for a favorable outcome.
Lead your appeal if the court issues an unfavorable decision.

Our lawyers understand that family disputes can be emotionally hard to deal with, especially when they involve legal action. You will receive compassionate guidance as we work to protect your rights and interests and help you find the best solutions for your family.

Things to Keep in Mind When Requesting a Custody Modification

Pursuing a change in a custody agreement can be a sensitive process. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind:

Consider reasons for wanting to change the custody order: Changes in your circumstances are significant enough to warrant a modification. Courts typically require substantial reasons, such as relocation, job changes, or shifts in the child’s needs.
Focus on your child’s best interests: Always focus on how the proposed changes will benefit your child and align with their best interests.
Consider your child’s perspective: Depending on the child’s age and maturity, consider their preferences and involve them appropriately in the process.
Keep careful records and gather evidence: Thoroughly document any changes in circumstances, such as new job schedules or relocation plans, and collect evidence that supports your request for modification.
Understand the legal requirements: Be aware of the legal procedures for filing a petition to modify the custody arrangement and what the court will consider as it reviews your request.
Prepare for court hearings: Be ready to present your case clearly and convincingly in court. This includes explaining why the modification is necessary and how it will benefit your child.
Stay flexible and patient: Be willing to compromise and find solutions that work for both parents and the child.

Get Help From Our Roswell Child Custody Modification Lawyer

Courts put custody arrangements in place for a reason, but they aren’t set in stone in most cases. If you believe a child custody order no longer works for your family, you can consider modifying it for an outcome that better benefits your child.

Our Roswell child custody modification lawyers can represent you in proceedings and work toward a new arrangement that better serves your child’s needs. Call us today to get started. We offer weekend and evening appointments for your convenience.

Randall Ivey