You may wish to change the court’s decision in a divorce, child support, or child custody case. As a Los Angeles divorce lawyer, Charles M. Green assists clients in modifying these types of court orders
When the court finalizes a divorce decree and related issues, it establishes new rights and responsibilities for you and your former spouse. Complying with the agreement is important because it helps you to move past the divorce and because staying in compliance protects you from court sanctions and penalties.
However, your circumstances may change in a way that requires modifying the court order. You may no longer be able to afford payments or may need to prevent your former spouse from taking specific actions related to your children.
Making judgment modifications is a complicated task. It requires getting a judge to change a decision already made, so many courtrooms place a high burden of proof. Mr. Green, as an experienced legal counsel, can represent you effectively in this divorce & family law matters.
The most common judgment modification requests in Los Angeles are for child custody, child support, and spousal support issues. These provisions usually can only be altered if there is a significant change in your circumstances. Some examples:
For child custody, you may require a modification if the custodial parent is planning to move to a different city or state with the children.
For spousal support, if you are the one who provides support and your income changes substantially, it may warrant a modification in the amount you should pay.
For child support, your children may require additional financial aid due to the growing costs of care. Mr. Green can help you to make this case to the court.
Charles M. Green, APLC, recommends mediation over a courtroom trial for judgment modifications. Mediation is a less expensive and less time-consuming option, and it provides a more predictable outcome.
Mr. Green will work with you and with the other party to find a resolution. Modifying the court order through cooperation rather than a combative trial can benefit both parties and help you achieve your goals.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation to explore options for judgment modifications.
A judgment modification refers to changing or altering a court order or judgment already issued. It’s typically done when circumstances significantly change.
Yes, in California, spousal support can be modified. Modifications can be requested if there is a significant change in financial circumstances. However, the spousal support cannot be modified if the parties have signed a written stipulation agreeing otherwise.
Yes, a divorce decree in California can be modified. The modification can be done by appealing the judgment to a California District Court of Appeals or by filing a motion to modify the terms of the agreement with the court where the original judgment was filed.
In California, you can request a modification to your child support by petitioning the court yourself or with the help of your county’s Family Law Facilitator or a private attorney. Alternatively, your local child support agency can review your case at no charge.
In California, child support can be modified at any time if circumstances change significantly. This could include changes in income, custody or visitation changes, or significant changes in the child’s needs.
Yes, modifying a court order without going to court is possible. This can be done through a process known as a “stipulated modification” or a “consent order modification,” where both parties involved in the original court order agree to the proposed modifications and submit a written agreement to the court for approval.