Child custody orders are modifiable. However, you must establish a specific basis for the modification of the child custody order. It is important to understand if your current custody arrangements are working out well, courts are hesitant to make changes. This will put a significant burden upon you to demonstrate there has been a significant change in circumstance which should cause a court to change child custody.
Bad Behavior of the Custodial Parent
Examples of types of behavior or circumstances involving the residential custodial parent which can be alleged to change the custody of the children can involve issues such as alcohol abuse, drug addiction, child abuse, child neglect, inappropriate living conditions, actions by Child Protective Services and/or the custodial parent not being physically fit or capable of continuing to take care of the children.
Show You Have Made Arrangements to Handle Custody
If you are looking for custody of the children, you must show you have an apartment or house large enough to accommodate them. You must also show it is in the child or children’s best interests to change custody.
Temporary Custody Orders
The changing of child custody happens at the end of the case if you can prove this is in the child’s best interest. However, prior to the change in custody taking place, you can make an application to the court to give you a temporary change in custody during the pendency of the case. If should be noted sometimes these cases can linger in the courts for anywhere from six months to two years.
Retaining Legal Counsel
If you are involved in a child custody proceeding, it is extremely important you hire experienced, dedicated legal counsel to represent you in these proceedings. What may look simple to you, will most likely end up being enormously complicated. If you are serious about changing child custody, your first step should be to hire a child custody lawyer to help you. If you don’t, you may find yourself groping in the dark!
