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St. Louis Child Custody Modification Lawyer
By Jennifer Piper• January 15, 2024Posted in
While child custody orders are final once entered by a St. Louis family law court, specific changes in one or both parent’s circumstances could serve as a basis for a modification of your custody order. It is crucial to consult with a dedicated family law attorney if you are interested in filing a request for a child custody modification. A knowledgeable St. Louis child custody modification lawyer can advise you on your available legal options and promote the best interests of your child or children. Contested Versus Uncontested Custody Modifications While some child custody disputes involve issues such as where the child will live when a parent wishes to move out of state, other modifications concern which parent the child will be with on any…
7 Common Reasons for Modifying Child Custody
By Jennifer Piper• August 26, 2024Posted in
There are many reasons why you might need to modify an existing custody order to better suit the changing needs of your child and family. As life progresses, changes are inevitable. This is especially true in questions related to child custody. Here are some of the most common reasons that child custody orders are changed. 1. Changes in your Child’s Needs As your child grows, their needs change. A custody arrangement that worked well for a toddler might not be suitable for a teenager. Older children often have more activities, such as sports, clubs, and social events. If one parent is better able to transport the child to these activities or provide support for their interests, a modification may be necessary. Additionally, as children mature,…
Child Custody: A Guide to Modifications
By Jennifer Piper• February 26, 2024Posted in
Exploring adjustments to child custody or support arrangements can be complex, yet it’s a journey that you may need to undertake. If you’re contemplating a modification regarding child custody, this guide is designed to simplify the process. Modifying Child Custody Embracing Mediation and Collaboration Mediation and collaborative law offer more amicable solutions to handle modifications for you and your family. Many parenting plans advocate or even require using these methods before resorting to legal avenues. Contact Family Ally If you have questions or need legal assistance regarding child custody, child custody modifications or any other family law matter, please contact Jennifer Piper at 314-449-9800 to schedule a consultation. Family Ally is located at 130 S. Bemiston Ave., Suite 608, St. Louis, MO 63105.
How Long Does It Take To Modify Child Support?
By Jennifer Piper• August 19, 2024Posted in
The process of modifying child support modification can be frustrating, especially if you are facing an urgent financial change. Understanding the timeline and what factors influence it can help you better prepare and manage expectations. On average, the process of modifying child support can take anywhere from six months to a year and a half. In some cases, it might take even longer. This range is broad because the duration depends on the specifics of each case. Factors That Affect the Timeline for Modification Reasons for Modifying Child Support Several situations might necessitate a modification of child support, including: Conclusion Modifying child support is a complex and lengthy process, but understanding the factors that influence the timeline can help manage your expectations. If you’re considering…
St. Louis Child Support Modification Lawyer
By Jennifer Piper• January 15, 2024Posted in
Missouri state law allows modifications to be made to existing child support arrangements in certain circumstances. If you are seeking to modify your current child support arrangement or your former spouse is requesting a modification and you wish to contest it, it is wise to consult with a seasoned family law attorney. A St. Louis child support modification lawyer can review the details of your case and explain what the next steps may entail. Requirements to Alter Child Support Certain requirements must be met in order to modify child support arrangements. While either parent may file for a modification, adjustments can only be made to a child support order if a substantial and continuous change in either party’s or your child’s circumstances has occurred to…
Can Child Custody Orders Be Changed?
By Jennifer Piper• November 17, 2025Posted in
Child custody orders can be changed if there has been a change in circumstances and the new arrangement is in your child’s best interest. In Missouri, you can modify custody, decision-making authority, or parenting time through the court. Many parents choose to resolve these matters privately through Mediation or the Collaborative Divorce process because those approaches offer privacy and allow you to create solutions that truly fit your family’s needs. Custody and Parenting Plans Can Change Under Missouri law, any part of a custody arrangement can be modified. That includes who makes decisions for the child, where your child attends school, and how parenting time is divided. To request a change, you must show that circumstances have changed since the original order and that the…
St. Louis Child Custody Enforcement Lawyer
By Jennifer Piper• January 15, 2024Posted in
If a parent fails to comply with their child custody order, they could be held in contempt of court and face additional legal punishments through a family access motion. If you need help enforcing your current parenting time arrangement, a St. Louis child custody enforcement lawyer can provide effective legal representation. A family law attorney who is well-versed in the state’s child custody laws can explain the legal issues involved in your case and your options for filing a motion requesting enforcement of your arrangement. Overview of Child Custody Arrangements in St. Louis There are two types of child custody to be aware of in St. Louis. Legal custody refers to a parent’s decision-making authority regarding the child’s health and well-being. On the other hand,…
Can You Modify Child Custody Without the Other Parent Agreeing?
By Jennifer Piper• May 18, 2026Posted in
Yes, but you cannot modify child custody without the other parent’s agreement unless you go to court. Judges have broad discretion in custody cases and want parents to try to resolve disputes first through negotiation, Mediation, or Collaborative Divorce. When a Custody Agreement Is Not Possible You may believe a custody change is necessary, but the other parent refuses to agree. There is no way to force a custody modification without either an agreement or a court order. If you cannot agree, your only option is to take the matter to court. However, before going down that path, it is worth trying to resolve things through guided conversations using either Mediation, or the Collaborative Divorce process. If those efforts fail, the court becomes your next…
Child Custody Issues with a Special Needs Child
By Jennifer Piper• May 7, 2026Posted in
Your Special Needs Child’s Daily Needs Come First When your child has special needs, custody is not just about where they spend their time. You have to look closely at what your child needs to function each day. Some children rely on medical equipment, mobility aids, or home modifications. If one home is set up for those needs and the other is not, moving back and forth may not be realistic or financially achievable. You could find that your child cannot comfortably transition between two homes. In some situations, maintaining one primary residence, sometimes called nesting, may better support your child’s routine. Nesting means that the child stays in the primary residence while you and your spouse move in and out of the home during…
Common Divorce Fear: Divorce Will Harm My Children
By Jennifer Piper• July 22, 2024Posted in
One of the biggest fears you may have when considering divorce or separation from your partner is the impact it will have on your children. It is natural to worry that ending your relationship could harm them. However, it is important to know that divorce or separation doesn’t have to harm your children if you handle your separation thoughtfully and sensitively. Understand the Impact of Conflict Divorce or separation can negatively affect your children, but it largely depends on how you and your spouse manage it. If your separation is filled with anger, fighting, and negativity, it can be very harmful. Arguing in front of your children, speaking badly about the other parent in their presence, or creating tense situations during exchanges can leave lasting…