Can Michigan Child Custody Agreements Be Modified?

After a judge enters their final order on child custody matters, circumstances may change for one or both parents. Fortunately, modifications for custody arrangements are possible when necessary.

If you’re seeking to modify your child custody arrangement, a qualified custody lawyer at The Gucciardo Law Firm, PLLC, is ready to help you.

What Is a Child Custody Agreement?

A child custody agreement is meant to provide details regarding child custody arrangements. They can be created with mutual cooperation from the parents, without involvement from the court, if the parents can work together and agree. If this is the case, parents would draft their agreement and submit it to the court for approval.

But when parents are not able to agree, a judge can step in and make important decisions, ideally keeping the best interests of the child in mind.

Child custody agreements include several details, including:

• Custody arrangements
• Visitation
• Schedules
• Time-sharing
• Child support

Once a child custody agreement is approved and finalized by the court, both parents are responsible for respecting the agreement at all times. Failing to keep up with the terms of the agreement can result in legal troubles.

Modifying a Child Custody Agreement

Even if both parents wish to uphold the child custody agreement, there may come a time when one parent can no longer keep up their end of the bargain. In these situations, it is possible to modify child custody agreements.

Sometimes, when parents agree, they can work together to modify the child custody agreement to suit their needs. However, if a modification brings about too much tension, the parent seeking the modification can petition the court.

Child custody modifications are not easy, as they require the petitioning parent to show a change in circumstance. That is, the parent must prove that something has changed since the time the custody order was put in place, and that the change affects the child’s best interests and the parent’s ability to follow the order.

This must be more than just a typical life change. A significant change in circumstance could mean many things, including the petitioning parent:

• Losing their job
• Experiencing a change in their income or finances
• Relocating to a different city or state
• Experiencing a negative change in their health

These changes often mean that the parent is no longer able to care or provide for their child in the manner they once did. A judge may modify the child custody agreement if they believe the petitioning parent has exhibited an actual change in circumstances and that modifying the child custody agreement would benefit the child.

Speak with a Michigan Custody Attorney

Modifying child custody agreements can be challenging and confusing, but a custody attorney can utilize their knowledge and skills to pursue the best outcome.

The Gucciardo Law Firm has over two decades of experience helping clients in Michigan with child custody matters. We know the impact custody agreements can have on your children, and we work to reach the most favorable outcome for parents and children.

Contact our firm today to request a consultation with one of our Michigan custody lawyers.