Sacramento Custody And Visitation Modification Lawyers

As families change and, in many cases, grow following a divorce, one or both parents may find it desirable or even necessary to change an existing court order concerning child custody or parenting time.

The Sacramento post-divorce modification lawyers of Bartholomew & Wasznicky LLP are experienced in handling child custody matters of all types. Whether parents approach modifications in a spirit of compromise or there is bitter disagreement, we tailor our approach to advance our clients’ interests while also doing what is in the best interests of the children involved.

California Post-Divorce Modifications Attorneys

Whenever there is a dispute as to custody or parenting time, the matter must go first to mediation. The procedure to get into mediation is the same as in the initial action. The key difference between the initial action for custody visitation and a modification of a custody visitation order is that a custody-parenting schedule order has been in effect; therefore, the court’s discretion regarding making orders for custody has narrowed.

The parent bringing the motion for modification must show a change in circumstances that warrants a change in the parenting plan. This burden can be difficult to overcome unless there are substantial reasons for the change. A request for a change in the parenting plan that appears to be financially motivated will be rejected. The primary focus of the mediator and the court will be whether or not sufficient grounds appear to establish that a change in custody or visitation would be in the best interests of the child or children.

FAQs About Post-Divorce Modifications

When people want to seek post-divorce modifications, they often have no clue where to begin. Understanding whether you have grounds to seek a custody and visitation modification can be confusing, as can the process for obtaining one. That’s why we’ve addressed some of our clients’ most common modification questions right here.

What are some circumstances that can lead to post-divorce modifications?

Where custody and visitation are concerned, modifications can be requested when, as previously mentioned, major life changes happen. Some reasons to request modifications include:

• Changes in your children’s lives and needs
• Changes to your work schedule
• Parental alienation
• Relocation

A Sacramento post-divorce modification lawyer can help you understand if seeking a modification is appropriate in your circumstances, and if needed, can help you take the steps to request one.

How long do I have to wait before filing post-divorce modifications?

In California, there is no waiting period to file post-divorce modifications. Rather, you can file a custody and visitation modification whenever a significant change in circumstances occurs in your life or in your children’s lives.

Is it easier to handle post-divorce modifications through mediation?

While post-divorce modifications can be handled through mediation in California, whether it is the appropriate way to address them depends on your unique circumstances. You can determine whether mediation is the right venue to resolve your post-divorce custody concerns by consulting a post-divorce modification lawyer.

Contact Bartholomew & Wasznicky LLP

Our Sacramento custody modification attorneys can assist you in seeking to modify or maintain an existing court order. Arrange a confidential consultation with a lawyer by calling 916-603-2913 or send an email.