When the court issues a child custody order during a divorce, the parents have to follow that order. It can divide both physical and legal custody. It is very common for custody to be split up, meaning that parents have to share time with their children, but sole custody is also used in some situations.
But you may still have to be a co-parent for years after your divorce occurs. Life can change significantly during this time. Is it possible to change the custody order, or are you just stuck with it until your child turns 18?
Modifications are possible
You can modify a child custody order, and the key is to ensure that you do this through the court system. Don’t just “modify” it on your own. There are official steps you need to take, and you can’t make all of these decisions or alterations without the court’s assistance and approval.
For instance, maybe you want to move because you’ve been offered another job. This may seem like a valid reason to move – and the court may agree with you. But if you simply move and take your child with you, keeping your ex from seeing them, that’s a violation of the custody order.
Instead, you need to go to the court and petition for a modification. You can then give them your reasoning – the job you’ve been offered – and the court can work to find a solution that will keep both parents involved. The court can then issue a new order, which you have to follow.
The proper legal steps
Breaking the order without the court’s involvement could lead to serious accusations of violating your ex’s rights, and you could even be held in contempt of court. That’s why it’s so important to know exactly what legal steps you need to take to protect your interests.