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Why do some Michigan parents modify their custody orders?

On Behalf of | Oct 5, 2024 | Family Law And Divorce

A Michigan custody order should clearly outline the parental responsibilities and privileges of parents who no longer live together. Custody orders establish how much time each parent spends with the children and how much decision-making authority they may have. The terms of a custody order can have a profound impact on parent-child relationships and the overall upbringing of the children.

A custody order carries the full weight of the courts and is enforceable in scenarios where either parent flagrantly violates the order. Both parents may need to carefully review the custody order and try their best to follow it consistently. Sometimes, the custody order doesn’t truly work for the family. In such scenarios, parents may need to ask the courts to formally modify a custody order.

What are some of the warning signs that a modification might be necessary soon?

Frequent changes to the schedule

Maybe a parent has obtained a new job, or perhaps one of the children joined team sports. When there are changes in household schedules or living arrangements, parents may need to adjust their custody exchanges. Such adjustments can be a source of conflict and can make day-to-day life feel less stable for the children. When an outdated custody order requires frequent adjustments, parents may want to request a formal custody modification.

Shifts in the family relationships

Perhaps one parent recently remarried, and the children do not get along well with their stepsiblings. Maybe one parent has started drinking more frequently, which has led to conflict between them and the children. As family relationships change, the division of custody may need to change as well. In cases were older children refuse to spend time with one parent or one parent stops showing up for their time, modifying the custody order so it reflects current arrangements is often the best option.

Concerns about safety

Unfortunately, some parents have to request custody modifications because they start to worry about the safety of their children. In scenarios where there are concerns about neglect or abuse, one parent may have to ask the courts to make substantial changes to the current custody arrangement.

Sometimes, parents agree on the necessary changes. They can pursue uncontested modifications that simply require court approval. Other times, litigation may occur. In such scenarios, parents have to establish that the circumstances warrant a modification, propose specific custody changes and then convince a family law judge that those changes are in the best interests of the children. Handling all of that alone can be overwhelming to someone working a job and caring for their children.

Parents often need assistance when handling complex family law matters, including post-judgment custody modifications, and that’s okay. Learning about why people choose to change their custody orders can help parents recognize when taking action might be necessary.

 

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