Life doesn’t stand still, which means that divorce terms may need to be changed at certain times. When that happens, our South Jordan divorce decree modification lawyers can help.
Brown Family Law has helped thousands of clients. Our South Jordan divorce lawyers treat your case with dedication and treat you with the empathy you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our family legal services.
When Do You Need a Divorce Decree Modification?
Divorce decree modifications are generally used when one person in the divorce has a significant change in their circumstances. Typically, modifications are about either child custody or alimony. Property division is not usually considered modifiable after the initial divorce.
Some specific situations where a divorce decree can be modified include:
Child Custody Changes
In certain situations, the best interests of the child may change. For these circumstances, a child custody or visitation modification may be needed. Some examples include:
- A parent needs to relocate.
- A parent’s work changes, such as increased hours or more frequent work trips, and so visitation needs to be adjusted.
- The child develops a medical condition.
- The child’s emotional needs change.
- The child’s educational needs change.
- Safety issues arise regarding one of the parents.
Financial Changes
When one party’s work or financial situation changes, whether for the better or worse, it may impact the terms of a divorce. Some examples include:
- One party loses a job or has a negative change in their income (such as significantly reduced hours).
- One party’s income significantly rises.
- A party who receives alimony remarries or cohabits with a partner.
- There is a serious illness or permanent disability.
When circumstances change, a South Jordan family lawyer can help.
Get Clear Guidance for Your Divorce
How Can a Divorce Decree Modification Lawyer in South Jordan Help You?
Modifying a divorce decree can be relatively simple when both parties agree. However, care is still needed to ensure that the modifications fit legal requirements. Additionally, in cases where one partner is fighting the modification, legal representation can help.
At Brown Family Law, we have over 150 years of combined experience. We bring our knowledge to every case we take on. Our legal team can help by:
- Carefully reviewing your case, including the original divorce papers, to ensure that the requested changes meet the legal requirements for a modification.
- Gathering evidence to support why a modification is needed.
- Drafting and filing all needed paperwork.
- Handling negotiations or mediation as necessary.
- Representing you in court when necessary.
We will ensure you feel supported throughout the legal process. We call our clients every Friday to go over any updates and ensure all questions are answered. Our focus is on the immediate needs of your case, but also the long-term outcomes that you are hoping to achieve.
You can watch our client testimonial videos to learn more about how we’ve helped our clients in the past.
A Calmer, Clearer Way Through Divorce
What Is the Divorce Decree Modification Process Like?
If you are ready to begin the divorce decree modification process, you’re likely wondering what the legal process will look like. It typically involves:
- You will need to file the petition for modification in the same court that originally finalized the divorce.
- Your former spouse will need to be formally served papers to inform them of the modification petition.
- Your South Jordan divorce decree modification attorney will begin gathering evidence and supporting documentation.
- The court may have you attempt mediation rather than going straight to court.
- If an agreement can’t be reached in mediation, then your case will be heard before the court.
- The court process involves the judge hearing evidence, reviewing the facts of the case, and then making their decision.
Your attorney will handle every stage of the legal process.
What Evidence Is Needed for Divorce Decree Modifications in South Jordan?
The exact evidence needed will depend on the specifics of your case, such as whether child custody or alimony are being modified. Some evidence that may be needed includes:
- Financial documents: This can include pay stubs, W-2s, bank statements, and termination letters from a job.
- Records relating to your child: These could include report cards, attendance records, medical records, or notes from a counselor.
- Communication records: If your ex-spouse has refused to uphold the original divorce terms or has had repeated scheduling conflicts, keep records of texts, emails, or other messages that show this.
- Testimony from professionals: For example, teachers, doctors, and counselors.
The stronger the evidence you have, the more likely you will be able to have the divorce decree modified. Discuss any potential problems or concerns you have with your lawyer as soon as possible.
Is There a Time Limit for Requesting Divorce Decree Modifications?
In Utah, there is no strict time limit for requesting divorce decree modifications. However, there is a deadline to serve the other party the modification request papers. For a modification of a divorce decree, this deadline is typically 120 days from the date that you filed the petition.
If the other party is also located in Utah, they then have 21 days to answer the petition. If they are out of state, they generally have 30 days for a response.
Contact a Divorce Decree Modification Lawyer in South Jordan Today
If you have had significant changes in your circumstances and need a modification of your divorce terms, Brown Family Law can help. We will carefully assess your situation and handle every step of the process for you.
Reach out today to schedule an initial consultation. Our South Jordan divorce degree modification lawyer team will listen to your story and help you understand the legal options available to you.
