Houston Child Custody Modification Lawyer Provides Help When You Need It Most

An experienced family law firm that’s with you every step of the way

When you’re going through a divorce, an attorney can protect your rights as a parent. Houston divorce lawyer Robert Reid McInvale helps individuals who need to seek a child custody modification due to changing circumstances or living conditions. Our firm is here for our clients when they need us most.

What’s involved in a child custody modification?

A child custody agreement is based on the financial and living situation of both parents at one point in time, but circumstances can change over the years. You might switch jobs or need to move to another state, making your current arrangement no longer viable. Or, the other parent may no longer be suitable to have custody or visitation time with your children.

There are a number of circumstances that must be present to file for a modification, and the following are some of the reasons why you may need to do so:

• Relocation. If you or your ex-partner must move to a different state due to a job change or other factor, you may need to modify the original decree to reflect the new circumstances.
• Failure to follow original agreement. When one parent does not adhere to the child custody agreement, it can be frustrating for the parent who is acting responsibly. A modification can reduce the burden on you and your children.
• Child endangerment. If your ex-partner maintains poor living conditions, is abusive or is living with someone else who places your children in danger, you have a right to seek a child custody modification to protect your kids.
• Change in child’s best interest. If there has been a change in circumstances for the custodial parent that endangers the children physically, mentally, or emotionally, a modification can be done in order to protect the child’s best interest.

How the process works

To get this process started, your lawyer must file a Petition to Modify the Parent-Child Relationship with the local clerk’s office where you established your original custody arrangement. You can request this location to be moved if your children have lived somewhere else for at least six months. If all parties agree to the new arrangement, they all need to sign an Order in Suit to Modify the Parent-Child Relationship. A judge then signs the order.

If the modification is contested, you must demonstrate that the proposed changes are in the best interests of your children and that circumstances from the original decree have materially changed. If the children are over the age of 12, they may provide input about which parent they would like to live with and other aspects of the arrangement.

To make sure you have covered all of your requirements and have made a strong argument for a custody modification, seek the guidance of an experienced child custody attorney. This will give you the best opportunity for success as you seek an arrangement that’s in your best interests and your children’s.

Consult with a skilled Houston custody lawyer today

If you need help modifying a child custody agreement due to changing circumstances in your life, speak with Robert Reid McInvale. You can give our firm a call at 866-959-7824 or contact us online to learn more about your options. We’re proud to serve individuals and families throughout Houston and the surrounding communities.