When the court issues a child custody order, both parents must follow that order. The court will have already considered what would be in the child’s best interests and attempted to set up a custody arrangement that focuses on their needs.
However, those needs—like life in general—can change significantly over time. This may mean that you need to modify the custody order. Be sure not to break the standing order. Instead, petition the court for a modification and only change your behavior after the new order has been issued.
Moving and relocating
For example, you may want to relocate with your children, but the custody schedule you have may be impossible if you and your ex live further apart. Often, this petition for a modification will include explaining to the court why you want to move to show that you’re not just trying to interfere with your ex’s custody rights. Potential examples include moving closer to extended family members, taking a job or finding a lower cost of living.
The child’s needs and preferences
The child’s life will also change substantially as they get older. When they enter high school, they may want a different custody arrangement based on their participation in school, clubs, activities and peer groups. The relationship the child has with their parents can also change significantly at this time. Moreover, children who have disabilities, diseases or other disorders may have special needs that must be met, necessitating a change to the custody arrangement.
Regardless of why you want to modify the arrangement, the key is to do so in advance and to understand exactly what legal steps you’ll need to take while seeking this modification.