Five Common Post-Divorce Modifications

Going through a divorce can be one of the most challenging phases in anyone’s life, and the final decree isn’t always the end of the story. Lives evolve, circumstances change, and post-divorce modifications become an essential step to ensure that court orders remain fair and relevant. In Kansas, navigating these legal waters calls for a solid understanding of what can be modified and when.

If you’re seeking guidance from a skilled divorce attorney in Kansas after your decree has been finalized, here are five common areas where modifications might be necessary.

Modification 1: Child Custody

Changes in employment, health, or living situations can profoundly affect child custody arrangements. Perhaps one parent has moved or undergone significant lifestyle changes, or the child’s needs have evolved as they’ve grown older. When these changes impact the child’s best interests, a modification in child custody may be in order. For instance, if a non-custodial parent becomes more capable of providing care, custody arrangements might shift to reflect this new capability.

Modification 2: Child Support

Financial situations are rarely static, and a change in income for either parent can prompt a reevaluation of child support payments. In Kansas, either parent can request a review of child support if there’s a material change in circumstances, such as a significant increase or decrease in income, or new financial needs of the child. Remember, the focus is always on what best supports the child’s well-being.

Modification 3: Alimony/Spousal Support

Much like child support, alimony or spousal support can be modified post-divorce. For example, if the paying ex-spouse loses their job or experiences a salary reduction, they may seek to lower their spousal support obligation.

Modification 4: Parenting Time/Visitation

The initial parenting time schedule that was set during the divorce may not work indefinitely. Changes in work schedules, the needs of the children, or relocation might require adjustments to visitation arrangements. A parent might need more time with their children or need to reallocate visitation to weekends due to new job demands. The goal should always be to serve the best interests of the children while accommodating parents’ schedules.

Modification 5: Relocation

Relocating with a child post-divorce can be complex, particularly if moving impacts the other parent’s ability to maintain a relationship with the child. Relocation may necessitate changes in custody, visitation, and support orders. In Kansas, the relocating parent is typically required to provide notice and obtain approval from the court or the other parent before moving, especially if the move would significantly affect the current custody and visitation arrangements.

Kansas Divorce Lawyer

Adjusting to life after divorce isn’t always straightforward. As dynamics shift, the decrees that once seemed perfect may no longer suit your current situation. That’s where post-divorce modifications come in. They’re not about winning or losing; they’re about reflecting change and upholding equity for all parties involved.

If you need assistance with modifying your divorce decree in Kansas, don’t navigate these complex legal processes alone. Contact the experienced divorce lawyers at Colgan Law Firm LLC by calling 913-721-9999. They have the expertise to guide you through each step, ensuring your post-divorce modifications are handled with care and professionalism.