Modification of Decrees

Jacksonville Divorce Decree Modification and Enforcement

In many cases, a change of circumstances after the divorce is final will require adjustments to the child support, child custody, visitation, or alimony arrangements outlined in the divorce decree. For help with the modification of any of these continuing commitments in your divorce, contact a Florida family law attorney at Makofka & Makofka for dependable advice and prompt handling of any necessary amendments.

Florida law recognizes the need for many divorced spouses to change the terms of their payment and visitation terms for various reasons, but generally requires that a strong showing of changed circumstances be presented to the court before it grants a motion for modification of any of the provisions of the divorce decree.

Where the request for modification is based on changed financial circumstances, the court will usually need to see a 15 percent change in the ability to make payments. A change this substantial can be based on upward or downward changes in income, unavoidable increases or decreases in living expenses, or other significant changes. Our lawyers can represent either the party seeking the modification or the party resisting it. In either case, we will make sure you have a firm understanding of your rights and responsibilities under the law, and we can help you achieve your objectives to the extent the law allows.

Post decree modification of divorce terms concerning custody and parenting time can also be necessary if one parent or the other plans to move to a new residence in a distant city or another state. In cases involving relocation, the parent proposing the move must give the other parent advance notice, and the parents will usually reach an agreement on such matters as visitation, travel expenses, or revisions to child support obligations.

For more specific advice about your situation when facing the need to modify the terms of your decree pertaining to alimony, child support, or parenting time, contact an experienced Florida family law attorney  at Makofka & Makofka in Jacksonville.