Modify a Divorce Decree in San Diego
Changing the Terms of Your Divorce, Spousal Support, or Child Custody Agreement
Our firm has a motto: "When life changes, we are here to help."
That is true in any family law case, but it is particularly true for post-judgment modifications. Sometimes the terms you set during your divorce do not match your current situation, and new terms have to be drafted. When that happens, call our attorneys to speed up and smooth out the process for you. We offer free consultations.
When Should I Modify My Divorce Decree?
Divorce decrees can be modified when one or both parties experience a "substantial change in circumstances" that affects their ability to comply with a child custody, child support, or spousal support order. A "significant change in circumstances" can include heightened healthcare costs, rising costs of raising a growing child, loss of a job, etc.
- Spousal Support (formerly called alimony) modifications
- Child support modifications
- Child custody/visitation modifications
If your circumstances have changed, then you may need to alter your court orders (as listed above). For example, if you have lost a job or if your child's needs have changed. Altering the court orders quickly may be vital.
Until the order has been changed though the court, you must continue honoring the current order. Having a lawyer handle your modification request will aide you in obtaining your desired result. Our decades of collective experience can help eliminate the delays and uncertainty of filing a court motion.
Grounds for a Custody or Support Modification in California
Grounds for a modification encompass any change that affects your financial situation. When it comes to children, grounds for modification include anything that affects the well-being of your child.
- Increase or decrease in income
- Loss of a job for one parent
- Increase in child care costs
- Parent's lifestyle has become detrimental to child
- One spouse has moved in with a significant other
Whether you have primary custody and are seeking to limit visitation rights, or your financial situation has changed and you want to lower your spousal support payments, modifications can help make the law address your specific needs. Our attorneys are skilled in discovery and investigation and can help present the facts of your situation in order to strengthen your modification request.
Have questions about your specific case? Call our San Diego family law attorneys at (619) 577-4900 today to hear about your legal options and how we can help make your request process faster and smoother.
