One of the biggest considerations parents must make during a divorce is child custody. A child custody arrangement allows parents to work out custody rights and a custody schedule. Parents can be given the right to continue deciding what is best for their child and spend time with their child on scheduled days.
A child custody schedule may work at first. However, parents may face challenges that impact their ability to follow a custody arrangement. If parents want to alter a custody arrangement, they may need to prove that there are substantial changes in circumstances. Here is what you should know:
What are substantial changes in circumstances?
Substantial changes in circumstances refer to major changes in a parent’s or child’s life that may impact a child’s well-being. A court may need proof that there are substantial changes in circumstances before altering a custody arrangement. Here are a few common types of substantial changes:
- A parent moved away: The distance between parents after a parent moves may make it harder for parents to follow a custody arrangement.
- A parent lost their job: If a parent does not have an income, they may be unable to provide for their child’s needs, such as food, clothing and shelter.
- A parent has a medical condition: A parent’s medical condition could prevent them from meeting regularly scheduled custody days.
- A parent has endangered their child: A parent who has abandoned, neglected or abused their child, is using drugs or has been arrested, could be an endanger to their child’s safety.
- A parent is not following the arrangement: A parent may refuse to follow a custody arrangement, making things harder for the other parent.
- A child’s needs have changed: As a child grows, they may have different needs and wants that can only be met if a custody arrangement is altered.
If you need to alter a child custody arrangement, it can help to reach out for professional legal guidance and learn what you can do.