Let’s face it. The process of divorcing is inherently difficult. Working through all of the child custody and financial issues that need to be resolved is stressful enough, and not something people want to rehash post-divorce. The reality is that in some situations, parties will revisit child custody and child support periodically for post-judgment modification, and that could happen more than once.

Modifications exist because New Jersey law recognizes the ever-changing nature of family life. Arrangements made at the time of a divorce may not make sense in the future. When modifications involve children and/or money, many factors could come into play. Let’s review them here.

A change in custody arrangements could be necessary due to major changes in the needs or circumstances of parents and/or children. A modification of child custody could also be necessary if one parent relocates far away from where the other party resides. This is called “relocation”.

A modification of child support could be warranted when there is a change in the finances of a parent. Among other things, the change could be due to a promotion, a disabling injury, or loss of a job. Health issues on the part of a child or parent could also lead to a modification of child support.

Securing a modification of child custody or support is typically not easy to achieve. The changes prompting such a request must be major and prospectively longstanding. In addition, they must be sufficiently proven to the judge or arbitrator making the decision.

Accordingly, it is vital that parties seeking post-judgment realize this: Do not adopt a “do it yourself” mentality. As Abraham Lincoln once said, famously: “A lawyer who represents himself has a fool for a client.” What would Honest Abe have said about people who are not legally trained, yet self-representing?

To learn how our law firm will assist you in post-judgment changed circumstances cases, including child custody, parenting time, child relocation, child support, alimony, college financing, or the like, please visit our website. Please contact us by email or phone if you believe we can help you. You will be glad you did.