Modification of Custody & Visitation

To modify custody, the parent filing the lawsuit must prove that a material change in circumstances has affected the child’s welfare since the last court order. The parent must also show that awarding custody to the non-custodial parent serves the child’s best interests.

Parents may request changes to visitation or the parenting plan whenever a material change in circumstances occurs. Even without a material change, parents may seek modifications to visitation or the parenting plan once every two years following the filing of the previous order.

Georgia courts recognize several situations as material changes in circumstances, including parental relocation, parental alienation, abuse or neglect, substance abuse, and a child reaching the age of 14 and choosing the non-custodial parent. In these situations, the court reviews the child’s best interests and evaluates whether the current custody or visitation arrangement remains appropriate. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling these complex and sensitive family law matters and know how to build strong cases for our clients.

Modification of Child Support

A court may modify child support when a substantial change in circumstances affects either the financial situation of the parents or the needs of the child after the original support order.

When calculating child support, courts evaluate several factors, including health insurance costs, extracurricular activities, school expenses, additional qualified children in the household, and extraordinary medical expenses. Financial circumstances often involve complicated income and expense issues. Our attorneys thoroughly investigate and evaluate each party’s finances and accurately calculate child support obligations under the Georgia Child Support Guidelines and Worksheet.

Modification of Alimony

Whether a court can modify alimony depends on the specific language in the settlement agreement or court order and whether a material change in circumstances has occurred since the previous order.

Because every alimony case involves unique facts and legal considerations, our family law attorneys carefully review each situation to determine whether modification is possible. We help clients understand their rights and pursue the most effective legal strategy for their circumstances.

Every type of modification follows different legal requirements regarding when a case may be filed, what circumstances qualify for modification, and which county has proper jurisdiction. Family law modifications can quickly become complicated, making experienced legal representation essential. Contact Chandler, Britt & Jay, LLC today to schedule a consultation with an experienced family law attorney.