Former partners in Oklahoma with children typically have child custody orders to determine when each parent spends time with their kids. Sometimes, it’s necessary to modify those orders.
Requesting a modification to a child custody order
Parents might seek to modify their original child custody order due to a variety of reasons. Changing circumstances might require asking the court for a modification.
When considering modifying an existing child custody order, the court will always put the needs of the child first and foremost. A judge will only make changes that are believed to be in the child’s best interests.
Reasons to ask for a child custody modification
One of the chief reasons why you might want to ask the court for a child custody modification is if your child is in serious danger by being with their other parent. This can happen if there’s a history of domestic violence within the family or if the other parent has a history of abusing the child.
If one of the parents has died, you might need a modification to the order. If the custodial parent has died, the court may award full custody to the other parent. However, depending on the circumstances, another person might be awarded custody instead. The court will also consider the child’s wishes when making the decision.
If there are consistent problems with one parent following the visitation schedule, the other can request a child custody modification. The court might consider whether the parents have reached an agreement on changing the order or if there are valid reasons why the original schedule wasn’t followed.
A parent moving far away is another reason to request a modification to the original child custody order. If the move would cause a disruption in the child’s life or the visitation schedule is challenging as a result, the court may modify the order.
Sometimes, a modification is required due to the child’s changing needs. As the child gets older, their needs might be significantly different. A new medical or psychological condition might make it necessary to have changes made. Regardless of the reason for the modification, it’s important for parents to go through the court process so that the revised agreement is legally binding.