Some parents can negotiate their own custody arrangements. They talk with one another about their schedules and children to reasonably divide parental rights and responsibilities. Other people litigate because they cannot agree on the best way to share parental responsibilities.
Typically, both parents are slightly dissatisfied with custody orders. Neither parent usually gets everything they want, and both have to make some sacrifices. People can adjust to spending weekends, school vacations and certain holidays away from their children.
However, they may eventually decide that the original arrangements do not work well for their family. Parents can go back to court to request a custody modification. The courts can change the custody order based on how family circumstances have evolved. What are some of the scenarios in which parents might pursue a custody modification?
1. When one parent moves
Relocations are often necessary after divorces or breakups. People move to new houses when they find affordable options or when they start new relationships.
New jobs and educational undertakings can also require a move. If either parent intends to move a significant distance from their current home or out of the state, a custody modification is likely necessary.
2. When circumstances improve
Sometimes, the courts establish imbalanced custody arrangements due to safety concerns. Issues with abuse or addiction might lead to one parent having far more time with the children than the other.
Other times, instability might lead to imbalanced custody arrangements. Loss of a job or a lack of appropriate housing can make it difficult for a parent to fully share parental rights and responsibilities. When one parent improves their circumstances by undergoing treatment, securing a job or obtaining better housing, they may be able to ask for a custody modification.
3. When schedules shift
Many changes for the family can drastically alter the schedule. A parent starting a new job could affect when they are available for their children.
The children moving to a different school or starting sports could be circumstances that put pressure on the current custody arrangement. Whenever there is a substantial change in circumstances, including the family schedule, custody modifications might become necessary.
Parents may be able to cooperate and create uncontested modifications if they agree on how to adjust custody arrangements. Otherwise, they can litigate if they do not agree. Understanding when a custody modification might be beneficial can help parents assert themselves. Keeping a custody order up-to-date can help limit conflict and disruptions for the entire family.