Modifications of Divorce Orders

When a couple files for a divorce, they make decisions based on their current and near-future financial status. However, should that status change in the foreseeable future, one or both parties may wish to change the divorce orders. The divorce rulings for a divorce are permanent. They cannot be terminated. They can, however, be modified. The divorcees may modify the rules to suit their personal situations, but the rules are not legally changed. Unless the court specifically states certain rules, the rules are ineffective. It is imperative that the divorcees clearly communicate their intentions and desires to their attorneys in order to avoid extra complications later. It is possible to change the orders later. Modification of divorce orders, however, can only be done in court, and it is usually most successful when the modifications are proven to be necessary.

Reasons for Modification

The most common time that divorce orders are modified is when children are involved. Often, as the children grow up, the wishes of the parents change, as do the needs of the children. After the court has finalized the agreements, the parents may modify them to suit each situation. When children are involved, if one parent experiences a large reduction in income, he or she may no longer be able to support the children. When the parents want to legally modify the divorce orders, they must both sign a document called Agreed Order Modifying Prior Order in Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship. Both representative lawyers must also sign the document before bringing it is finalized by a judge. The court may also agree to modify divorce orders in order to accommodate alimony needs. Again, when one party experiences a change in financial status, it plays into the status of the other party. Property arrangements are the only area that will most likely never be modified.

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