Westport, CT Divorce Modifications Attorney
Sometimes, life changes make it difficult or even impossible to adhere to the conditions of previous court orders after a divorce. It is very common, actually, for families to revise court orders in their divorce decrees. What may have worked in the past may not fit the current needs of your family. If you are finding it challenging to meet the court-ordered requirements of your divorce, a Westport divorce modifications lawyer can assist you in getting those terms modified.
Connect With a Compassionate Family Law Firm
Reich & Truax, PLLC, is a dedicated group of family lawyers who focus on family law. Our team-minded approach to legal matters allows us to leverage our respective strengths. We work together and use creative problem-solving skills to help our clients resolve their legal issues. We would like to do the same for your family.
Why Hire a Divorce Modifications Lawyer?
You should hire a divorce modifications lawyer if you need to make changes to your existing divorce decree. Some of the most common reasons divorcees hire a divorce modification attorney to modify court orders are described below.
- One parent needs to relocate. Sometimes, one parent gets a new job or a promotion that is in another town or even in another state. If the move interferes with the current parenting plan, the family’s visitation schedule may need revising. In this scenario, one parent may propose a new custody agreement that accommodates their new job.
- The supporting parent’s income changes. Westport’s median income is $119,872. When a supporting parent’s income is reduced due to extenuating circumstances, they may ask the judge to lower their required child support payment amount.
- The child’s needs change. Circumstances may change for children, whether it be due to health, education, or extracurricular activities. Modifications of custody arrangements or the visitation schedule, for example, may be necessary.
- One parent remarries. Whatever the unique circumstances of a family may be, remarriage can often require a change in orders.
- There’s a change in a child’s or a parent’s health condition. A disabling health condition can warrant the need for a modification of divorce terms in some families.
What Can Be Modified?
Families can seek to modify various areas of divorce agreements. Orders concerning the division of property, assets, or debt are typically not eligible for modification. Most other terms of divorce can be altered after the fact, with good reason. Below are areas of divorce orders that can be modified in Connecticut.
How to Modify a Divorce Decree
Divorce modification cases aren’t always easy, though. If one side is being outwardly stubborn or acting out of spite, rather than out of care for the child, the judge will notice and often rule in favor of the other parent. If the dispute, though, regards a valid issue, and their concern is presented in a diplomatic way, a judge is more likely to be receptive to reasonable and logical objections.
Whichever side you’re on, a Westport divorce modification lawyer can present your case. If you are opposed to a divorce modification your former spouse is requesting, having an attorney represent you can optimize your chances of getting an outcome that is more favorable.
If you are proposing a modification that your former spouse is contesting, a good attorney can benefit your case as well. Oftentimes, whichever side you’re on, a simple and well-structured report that presents a sound case for your position is all it takes. Suggesting a change may require documented evidence as to why the change makes sense, whereas opposing a change may require evidence for why it should not be made.
For example, when a parent wants to change custody or a visitation schedule, and the other parent does not agree, a logical explanation of either side’s stance can be effective. This could mean obtaining testimonies from family members and other individuals close to the child. Statements from their physician, counselor, or teachers that show their support for the change regarding how it would affect the child can be helpful in divorce modification cases.
It is important to enter into a divorce modification hearing with a clear plan for the change or a clear explanation of why you don’t support it, along with evidence to back it up. A Westport divorce modifications attorney can be a great resource for putting together a straightforward and well-planned case. An attorney who is well-versed in divorce modification laws is also an ideal ally to have in the Stamford/Norwalk Judicial District, where you would file your case.
Why Choose Us?
Reich & Truax, PLLC, has represented countless Westport divorce modification cases. We can be straightforward with you regarding your potential to get your modification approved. If it needs an objective eye to make it a more practical request or more child-centered, we can help with that. Let us present your case to the judge and show you what an advantage working with an experienced family law firm can be.
FAQs About Westport, CT Divorce Modifications Laws
A: Yes, certain parts of a divorce agreement can be changed in Connecticut. Modifiable terms of a divorce order can involve child or spousal support and custody arrangements, like parenting time or the education of a child. The party requesting the change must have a well-documented good reason for the change.
A: Circumstances under which a court-ordered award of alimony can be modified typically involve a change in income for either party. A judge may grant a modification of divorce orders for reasons like:
- A job change
- A job loss
- A change in earning potential
- Retirement
- Remarriage
- Cohabitation
A major change in the health of one party can also influence the likelihood of a modification getting approved.
A: To modify alimony in Connecticut, you must file a motion for the request with the family court. Your request must have detailed evidence documenting a legitimate need for the change. Approval of your request is subject to the judge’s review of the financial situations of both parties. If valid grounds for the change are identified, the judge will likely grant the request for an alimony modification.
A: A divorce order can be modified by either party as long as the existing divorce decree or court order doesn’t prohibit modification. It’s not enough, though, to just say you want something to be changed. The requesting party must have a valid reason for the modification. In some cases, proof of this is required by the court before they will grant the change.
Consult an Experienced Westport Divorce Modifications Attorney
If you need to hire a divorce modifications lawyer in Westport, our team has the experience, education, and passion to advance your case. Contact Reich & Truax, PLLC, and let’s get started on your case.