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Reasons you may need to modify your Kentucky child custody order

On Behalf of | Jul 26, 2021 | Child Custody & Support

When you get a divorce as a parent, you will receive court orders regarding child custody and visitation. You and your co-parent must comply with this order. However, most custody plans do not continue meeting the needs of families on a long-term basis.

As you know, children grow and change over time, and parents undergo life changes too. Often, this makes a once beneficial child custody arrangement inadequate. Fortunately, family courts in Lexington, Kentucky, understand this and allow parents to request custody order modifications.

Common reasons parents need to alter a custody order

Parents may not seek to change a child custody and visitation order unless they have a good reason for making changes. A few of the most common reasons for requesting a modification include the following.

  • A parent wants or needs to move to a different city or state.
  • The child is in immediate danger in the custodial home or when visiting with the noncustodial parent.
  • A parent refuses to cooperate with custody orders or violates visitation orders.
  • The child’s custodial parent dies, and new arrangements are necessary.

A court will review the situation carefully before issuing new visitation or custody orders. In other words, you cannot claim you need to modify your existing order without providing evidence to support your request. Family courts always place the best interests of the child before any other consideration when making custody decisions.

A request for modifications may have a better chance of success if both parents work together to create a new arrangement. However, do not make these changes without approval from a judge, or you will violate your court order. It is also wise to learn more about child custody and visitation laws in Kentucky.