How Does a Child Custody Agreement Change?

When the State of Pennsylvania hands down child custody orders, they are based on the best interests of the children at the time. The state, however, recognizes that circumstances and children’s needs can change, and child custody modifications are not uncommon. If your situation has changed to the degree that you need a child custody modification, it’s time to consult with an experienced Lebanon County child custody lawyer. 

If You and Your Ex Are on the Same Page

If you and your ex are in agreement on the matter of a child custody modification, the path forward will be far more streamlined. To accomplish your task, you’ll need to present the court with the agreement you’ve worked out between yourselves, which must be in writing and must be signed by both of you. This approach tends to be less emotionally challenging for everyone involved, including the children, and as a result, Pennsylvania courts are very inclined to sign off on these agreed modifications.

It’s important to note here that simply making an agreement between yourselves but failing to put a modification into effect with the court can backfire spectacularly. The child custody orders that you currently have in place are legally binding, and if your ex changes their mind about your verbal agreement at some point in the future, the court could find you in contempt of its orders.

If You and Your Children’s Other Parent Aren’t in Agreement

If you and your children’s other parent aren’t in agreement in relation to a change in your child’s custody arrangements, you can petition the court for a modification, which involves the following steps:

• Filing the correct form with the court that had original jurisdiction
• Including a written list of proposed modifications
• Explaining why these modifications are in your children’s best interests

Best Interest Standards

Pennsylvania courts are interested in upholding the best interests of the children involved in child custody modification cases. Prime examples of best interest factors in the state include all the following:

• Each parent’s commitment to supporting the other’s close and ongoing relationship with the children
• How well the status quo is serving the children, which refers to their current circumstances in relation to home, school, and community
• Each parent’s involvement in raising the children to date
• How close the children are to each another
• The preferences of those children who have the reasoning to participate
• How well equipped and motivated each parent is to meet the children’s needs, including any special needs

Discuss Your Case with an Experienced Lebanon County Child Custody Attorney Today

Stephen Grosh at the Law Office of Stephen W. Grosh in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania, is a compassionate child custody lawyer who appreciates your need for a child custody modification and is well-equipped to help you get the job done with your parental rights intact. Learn more by contacting us online or calling 717-435-8830 for more information today.