Support & Custody Modification FAQs
Questions about post-decree modifications in Connecticut?
At Happy Even After, we work to ensure that our clients understand their rights and their legal options. If you have been divorced and are now considering going to court to request a modification to the terms of the court orders concerning child custody, child support, alimony or other issues, come to us first.
Even simple mistakes and oversight in the process can cause the petition to be denied and you owe it to yourself to ensure that you do not make such an error. Let our Connecticut divorce attorneys review the matter first and help you make an informed decision about how to proceed.
For now, read through our answers to commonly asked questions on the topic of post-decree modifications:
Can you change a Connecticut divorce judgment?
People's lives change. What once worked at the time of your divorce in regards to parenting time, child support and spousal maintenance may not make sense anymore. You can modify your Connecticut divorce agreement under certain circumstances.
Can you modify a parenting plan in Connecticut?
Yes. Maintaining and documenting contact with your children is essential to a successful modification of custody or parenting plan. If you observe developments that cause you to be concerned, be prepared to demonstrate to the court your active involvement in your children's lives.
If a parent is actively involved with their children, and can demonstrate that involvement - financially and otherwise - the court is more likely to consider their motion than a parent who rarely interacts with their children on any level.
Can we modify without going to court?
While many divorced couples make changes to their parenting plan on their own and without court involvement, problems sometimes do arise, and the parties are left to unravel the mess. Usually one party argues that a certain course of action should occur based on their past conduct while the other party argues that they should refer back to their divorce agreement. Even if the changes are amicable, it is best to get all post-divorce modifications finalized through the courts.
When can child support be modified?
If your financial situation has changed substantially since your divorce, you may be entitled to an increase or decrease in child support.
What factors does the court consider in addressing a modification request in Connecticut?
Factors such as a decrease in a party's ability to pay support, remarriage, cohabitation, change in health, or change in financial abilities may be grounds to seek a financial modification. The court may increase, decrease or suspend support payments if a substantial change in financial circumstances is found.
Sometimes, life evolves and a parenting plan needs to be modified or custody needs to be modified. Reasons to modify a parenting plan may include a parent seeking additional parenting time, a parent's desire to relocate, a change in a parent's work schedule or a child's own activity schedule. As always, Connecticut courts look out for the best interest of the child.
How can Happy Ever After help with modification needs?
The experienced attorneys at Happy Ever After work with clients to identify how the law applies to their situation and to assist them in seeking modification of the existing alimony or spousal support order. We have extensive experience and will aggressively and zealously advocate for your interests.
Contact us to learn more!
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"The best decision that I've ever made"Divorce is never easy but the folks at this law firm made things so easy. They explained everything to me in detail, they kept me updated on proceedings & what to expect. The attorney gave me superior representation in court. The electronic communication was fast, billing was handled promptly with details & the staff was exceptionally professional. The best decision that I've ever made was to hire this firm.- Jenine W.
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"Renee helped me find the strength that I didn’t know I had."Renee sees the whole picture and doesn’t just focus on the legal issues. She recognizes the emotional impact of divorce and knows how difficult it can be, even if you are the one initiating it.- Julie
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"Renée was very thorough and smart when it comes to divorce and child custody especially for fathers’ rights."I had to find an attorney and the Happy Even After was highly recommended to me so I made my consultation with Renée. Right away I felt at ease. Renée took some of my worries away and she reassured me this is all normal procedure in getting a divorce. Renée was very professional, respectful, polite and kind... Renée was very thorough and smart when it comes to divorce and child custody especially for fathers’ rights. Everyone in her office was very professional, polite and caring. The paralegal was very helpful. She would get things done ASAP and if you needed something, she would send it through email right away. It was always a pleasure speaking with her on the phone, in person or through email. I also had the pleasure of working with Leslie who prepared my financial affidavit. She was always a pleasure to speak with, very polite, professional and helpful. Leslie would walk me through something I did not understand step-by-step or would find the answer for me. Overall, the whole firm was excellent. I highly recommend Happy Even After to anyone that's going through a divorce..... thanks for the positive experience from Renée and her law firm!!!!- Phil