It’s no secret that as your child grows up, their needs and routines will change. As such, if you and the child’s other parent are no longer together, the custody arrangement you created when your child was a toddler may no longer reflect what is best for your teenager. As such, you may wonder if it’s possible to change a custody agreement in Missouri. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including when a change may be necessary and how to petition the court. You’ll also discover the importance of exploring your legal options with St. Louis child custody lawyers to assist you during these matters.
When Can a Custody Arrangement Be Modified?
It’s important to understand that generally, for the court to grant a custody modification, a substantial change must occur that warrants altering the court-ordered custody agreement. Changes that could result in a modification include, but are not limited to, the following:
- One parent moving far away
- A parent’s job hours changing
- Concern for the child’s safety due to neglect or substance abuse by the parent
- A considerable change in the child’s health or educational needs
Generally, if a parent wants to change the custody order enforced by the court, there are a number of considerations that must be made. First and foremost, it’s important to understand that if custody changes are proposed, the court must consider whether or not these changes are in the best interest of the child, just as they do when considering custody matters during divorces. As such, if both parents agree to the proposed changes, the court generally will enforce them, as they believe both parents will prioritize the best interest of their child.
However, if one parent contests the changes, you’ll need to take additional steps to petition the court to show that the changes that occurred are substantial and warrant a modification.
What Steps Must I Take to Make Changes?
If you feel as though changing the custody arrangement is in the best interest of you and your child but your ex does not agree to the changes, the first thing you must do is file a Motion to Modify Child Custody with your local court. You’ll need to include evidence that shows a substantial change has occurred and warrants a change in the custody arrangement to protect the best interest of the child.
Once you submit the petition, your spouse will be served a summons that informs them when they can appear in court to contest these matters. Once your court date occurs, the judge will examine the evidence and listen to your arguments before issuing a decision. If they agree to modify the custody agreement, they will create a new document that is enforced by the court with the new changes and stipulations included.
As you can see, there are a number of important considerations that must be made when you want to modify a custody arrangement in Missouri, which is why enlisting the assistance of an experienced attorney is in your best interest during these complicated matters. At Stobie Family Law Group, our dedicated legal team understands how difficult these circumstances can be, which is why we are ready to fight for the best interests of you and your family. Connect with us today to learn how we can help you.
