When couples in Georgia and other U.S. states get divorced, there may come a time when a divorce decree modification is necessary. Although things like property division and debt allocation typically can’t be altered once a decree has been decided, the final agreement also isn’t set in stone. Many aspects such as child support payments, custody agreements and alimony can be revisited later on if circumstances change.
There may be several reasons to request a divorce decree modification. For example, an individual can petition for a modification of alimony if there is a mutual agreement or if a court determines that there has been a significant change in circumstances. These changes could include the remarriage of the spouse who was receiving payments or a change in the payer’s income.
In some instances, it may be necessary to petition for a modification of child support. A change in circumstances that could lead to a modification includes a change in income, costs associated with health care or medical expenses for the child, and an increase or decrease in the child’s needs.
When it comes to requesting a change to a child custody agreement, parents can request a modification of legal custody, visitation and physical custody. An example for a request of a child custody agreement is that the non-custodial parent had a former substance abuse problem during the time of the original divorce decree. If the parent has gone through a rehabilitation program and would like to spend more time with the child, he or she can petition for a modification that grants more visitation time.
Requesting a divorce decree modification can be a complex process, especially since laws vary from state to state. For more information about modifying an aspect of your final decree, consider consulting with an experienced family law attorney.
