7 Common Reasons for Modifying Child Custody~ 4 min read

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, their preferences about which parent they spend more time with may shift. They might feel more comfortable or connected with one parent, which can also necessitate changes to the custody arrangement.

2. Health Issues

Health concerns are another significant reason for modifying a custody order. If your child develops a medical condition that requires frequent visits to a particular specialist or hospital, you may need to adjust the custody schedule to ensure they receive the best possible care. Similarly, if a parent experiences health issues that affect their ability to care for your child, a custody modification may be required to prioritize the child’s well-being.

3. Relocation

Moving is a major factor that can impact custody arrangements. Whether you are relocating for a new job, better living conditions, or other personal reasons, moving can complicate existing custody schedules. If the move affects your child’s school, social life, or requires significant travel time to see the other parent, you will likely need to revisit and modify the custody order to accommodate these changes.

4. Changes in Parental Employment

Job changes can significantly impact your ability to adhere to a custody schedule. If one parent gets a new job with different hours or has to travel more frequently, it can create challenges in meeting custody obligations. Adjusting the custody arrangement can ensure that your child remains in a stable and supportive environment, despite changes in a parent’s work schedule.

5. Behavioral Issues

Behavioral problems, whether your child or your co-parent, can be a valid reason for modifying custody. If one parent struggles to manage the child’s behavior or fails to seek necessary help, such as therapy, it may be beneficial for your child’s welfare to spend more time with the other parent. Conversely, if a parent’s behavior, such as neglect, abuse, or substance abuse, poses a risk to the child’s well-being, a court may modify the custody arrangement to protect the child.

6. Parental Conflict and Alienation

Bad behavior by a parent, such as speaking poorly about the other parent in front of the child, can also lead to custody changes. Courts consider the willingness of each parent to support the child’s relationship with the other parent. If one parent is undermining this relationship, it may be necessary to adjust the custody order to ensure a healthier environment for the child.

7. Substance Abuse

Substance abuse by a parent is a serious issue that can prompt a custody modification. Courts prioritize the child’s safety and well-being, and if a parent’s substance use affects their ability to care for the child, custody arrangements may be changed to limit that parent’s access, sometimes even requiring supervised visitation.

Resolving Issues Outside of Court

While some custody modifications can be handled amicably through mediation or collaborative processes, others may require court intervention. Mediation allows you and your ex-spouse to discuss concerns and reach a mutually agreeable solution, often saving time and money compared to going to court. This approach works well for less contentious issues like scheduling changes due to new activities or minor relocations. However, for more severe issues like abuse or significant relocations, court involvement might be necessary to ensure the child’s best interests are met.

Conclusion

Modifying a child custody order is often essential to address the evolving needs of your child and family circumstances. Whether due to changes in your child’s needs, health issues, relocation, employment changes, behavioral problems, parental conflict, or substance abuse, these modifications are in order to ensure that your child remains in a safe and supportive environment.

Contact Family Ally

If you find yourself facing any of these challenges and believe a custody modification is necessary, it is important to seek professional legal assistance. Family Ally is here to help families navigate these difficult transitions. Our experienced team will guide you through the process, ensuring the best possible outcome for your child and your family.

If you have questions or need legal assistance regarding a child custody modification, divorce 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.