Family Law Lawyer in New Paltz
Post-Decree Modification: When Circumstances Change
The law makes generous allowances for the possibility that changing needs and conditions will require modification of a child support, custody or alimony order. In order to establish or resist a request for amended terms, however, it helps to get the advice of a lawyer who knows what factors the court considers. To make sure your position is presented effectively, contact Jonathan D. Katz, Attorney at Law. From my office in New Paltz, I serve clients throughout the Hudson Valley and the Catskill region, including Ulster, Dutchess, Orange, Greene and Columbia counties.
Not just any change of circumstances will result in an order for modification
In order to establish a right to modification of a court order or court-approved agreement, it will first be necessary to show that the change is both substantial and material. In other words, the difference between the present arrangement and that proposed should be big enough to satisfy legal standards and justify the time and expense involved in seeking the modification.
Additionally, the changed circumstances should bear directly upon the situation at issue - a loss of a job might justify a downward adjustment of child support obligations, and a change in working hours might support modification of a visitation schedule, but a child's new problems with allergies and asthma shouldn't require an adjustment to child support if current health insurance coverage will take care of the additional expenses.
I know how to analyze a post-decree situation to identify the factors both for and against modification. I give all my clients straight advice as to the likelihood of successfully advancing or opposing the proposed modification. I'll even let you know whether the matter is worth bringing to the attention of a court in the Hudson Valley or the Catskill region.
With 25 years of trial experience, I can help you choose your battles wisely
The last thing any client needs is a family law attorney who creates a false impression of the merits of your case in order to generate fees. For dependable advice about the pros and cons of a modification in your case, contact my law firm in New Paltz, New York.
