Modification of Court Orders

Protect Your Rights in Long Island, the City of New York, & Westchester County

Most individuals are under the impression that, once a divorce is finalized, the court order can never be changed. That, however, is not true. In some circumstances, orders can be modified as the lives of the individuals who are involved change which may require alterations to child support, spousal support or custodial and visitation arrangements. An attorney from our firm will work with you to develop an understanding of what can be modified and whether your circumstances support a modification of the existing order.

The circumstances that call for modification of a court order are varied. For example, an individual who loses his or her job may need to have their court order for child support or spousal support modified to accommodate the loss or reduction of income. Parties' schedules and children's needs may change, requiring changes to the custodial arrangement or visitation schedule. In cases of one parent wanting to relocate, a relocation request may need to be filed with the court to prove the move is necessary or to modify child custody and visitation orders. No matter what the issue, our firm can help you protect your rights and ensure that your rights, and those of your child(ren), are given the highest priority and full attention.

Modification of Child Support Orders

Child support obligations that are set in court orders or in marital agreements can be modified if the circumstances dictate. Such circumstances may include significant changes in income, changes in employment status or a change in the needs of your child(ren) that cannot be met based on the existing order. While the laws of New York regarding child support modification changed in October 2010, the manner in which courts handle child support modifications remain fact sensitive. As a result, it is extremely important that you have an experienced attorney by your side that knows the current state of the child support modification law and has the ability to present the facts of your case in the best possible light to maximize your chances of success whether you are the party seeking a modification or whether a modification is being requested by your former spouse. The attorneys of Jeffrey S. Schecter & Associates, P.C. have that experience, and have successfully litigated numerous child support modifications cases for our clients.

Modification of Custodial Arrangements

Courts recognize that the circumstances in the lives of either parent or the child(ren) may change requiring modifications to custodial and visitation orders. Therefore, even if there is a custody and visitation order in effect, these orders can be modified by courts where there is a change in circumstances and the best interests of the child(ren) support a modification. The attorneys at Jeffrey S. Schecter & Associates, P.C. recognize the sensitive nature of these cases, as well as the fact that custody and visitation modification proceedings can be complex and have life changing effects on everyone involved. We have the skills and the experience you need at your side, to guide you through the process and obtain a resolution that serves the best interests of your child(ren).

Modification of Maintenence Orders

Maintenance obligations, also known as spousal support obligations, can also be subject to possible modification if the circumstances dictate. Those circumstances usually involve significant financial changes to payor spouse that can leave them unable to comply with their obligations. Each case for modification remains fact sensitive. As a result, particularly in light of present-day circumstances, it is extremely important that you have an experienced attorney by your side that knows the current state of the maintenance modification law and has the ability to present the facts of your case in the best possible light to maximize your chances of success as well as the ability to defend against such applications. The attorneys of Jeffrey S. Schecter & Associates, P.C. have that experience, and have successfully litigated numerous such modifications cases for our clients.