How To Modify A Child Custody Or Time-Sharing Agreement In Fort Lauderdale

Life after a breakup can bring about many changes. If you are a parent, child custody or time-sharing arrangements that were put in place through the Broward County Family Court may no longer work or meet you and your child’s needs.

Whether it’s due to a change in circumstances, the need to relocate, or a stubborn refusal on the part of the other parent to cooperate, you may need to modify your original order. Our Fort Lauderdale child custody attorney explains when this is an option and the steps involved.

When Can You Modify Child Custody Or Time-Sharing Agreement in Fort Lauderdale?

The Florida Statutes generally encourage child time-sharing in cases of divorced or single parents. However, there are still situations in which awarding one parent custody and the other visitation makes more sense.

In either case, once a court order is in place, both parents are required to follow it. However, you may be able to request modifications to your court order if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as:

• Relocation: If one parent wants to relocate a significant distance away or if an out-of-town parent, previously awarded visitation, moves back to the area.
• Changes in one parent’s financial or living situation: For example, if one parent is no longer able to provide a stable home for the child, the court may adjust the custody schedule.
• Safety issues: If one parent engages in behavior that is detrimental to the child or the other parent, the court may modify the original order.
• Refusing to comply with court orders: Failure to adhere to the parenting plan or custody schedule is a common reason for modifications.

How to Modify Child Custody And Parenting Plans In Fort Lauderdale

Once a Florida parenting plan or child custody agreement is put in place, there is a legal process you need to follow if you want to change it:

• File a Petition for Modification: Your petition must explain why you are requesting modifications.
• Provide Evidence of Changed Circumstances: The court will only modify the custody arrangement if there is a substantial change in circumstances. You need evidence, such as documentation of a move, a change in employment, or any other change that affects the child’s best interests.
• Attend Mediation: The court encourages mediation rather than fighting your case out in court.
• Attend a Hearing: If mediation does not work, the case proceeds to court and the judge will decide whether a modification is warranted.

For Trusted Legal Help, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Child Custody Attorney

Once a Fort Lauderdale parenting plan or child custody order is in place, you must follow it. However, you may be able to request modifications if there is a significant change in circumstances or problems that put you or your child at risk.

To protect your rights in the Broward County Family Court, get trusted, experienced legal representation from the Law Office of Sandra Bonfiglio. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our Fort Lauderdale child custody attorney.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.13.html

flcourts.gov/Resources-Services/Office-of-Family-Courts/Family-Court-in-Florida/Family-Law-Forms/Parenting-Plan-12.995-Forms-A-C