Modifications Lawyer in Eagle, ID
Also Representing Clients in Star, Boise, Meridian & Surrounding Areas
Life is dynamic, and circumstances for ex-spouses, parents, and children can change over time, making current custody or support orders no longer suitable. Situations such as job loss, relocation, changes in income, or changes in a child's needs may necessitate a modification of existing child-related family court orders in Idaho. Changes may also require a modification of alimony obligations.
Modifications to child custody, visitation, or child support in Idaho require a significant and material change in circumstances since the last order was issued. However, not every change in circumstances will be deemed “significant and material." The court will consider the totality of the circumstances and how they impact the child’s best interests.
Similarly, modifications of alimony or spousal support orders in Idaho may also be warranted if there's a substantial and material change in circumstances. However, the decision to modify an alimony order is always at the court’s discretion, and not all changes in circumstances may meet the required threshold.
Modifying a family court order can be complex and daunting, regardless of the specific situation. It often involves navigating intricate legal procedures, presenting persuasive evidence, and understanding nuanced legal standards. Therefore, having experienced legal representation can be significantly beneficial.
At Gem State Family Law, we have in-depth knowledge and extensive experience handling modification requests. Our attorney understands the sensitivity of these matters and is committed to providing the support and guidance you need throughout the process.
Discuss your needs in an in-person or remote case assessment with our Eagle modifications attorney. You can reach us online or at (208) 203-7422 to request an appointment.
Modifications of Child Custody & Support
To justify a modification of child custody, you or your child must have sustained a substantial and material change in circumstances, such as the following:
- Change in child custody arrangement: A modification may be warranted if the actual ongoing custody arrangement substantially differs from the one outlined in the court order. This could be due to one parent consistently spending more or less time with the child than the order outlines.
- Relocation of a parent: If one parent must move a significant distance away for good reason, such as employment, it may impact the current custody or visitation arrangement and warrant a modification.
- Change in parent's health: A severe illness or disability affecting a parent's ability to care for the child may necessitate a modification in custody or visitation.
- Parental remarriage: If a parent remarries, the court may reconsider the current custody order, especially if the new spouse/blended family significantly changes household dynamics.
- Change in employment: If a parent's job schedule changes significantly, making the current custody or visitation schedule unworkable, it may warrant a modification.
Changes that could justify a modification in child support include:
- Change in parental income: A significant increase or decrease in either parent's income could justify a modification of child support, as it impacts the financial resources available to the child.
- Change in child's needs: A significant change in the child's needs may necessitate a modification. This could include changes related to health, education, or age-related expenses.
- Parental remarriage: If a parent remarries, the court may reconsider the current support order, especially if the new spouse's income significantly changes the financial dynamics of the household.
- Additional support needed for new children: If a parent has new children to support after a support order has been made, it may justify a modification.
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Modifications of Alimony in Idaho
Changes in circumstances that may justify an alimony modification could include:
- Significant income change: A substantial increase or decrease in the income of either party can warrant a reconsideration of alimony payments. This could be due to job loss, demotion, or a significant rise in revenue.
- Retirement: If the paying spouse retires and experiences a substantial decrease in income, this could potentially be grounds for reducing or terminating alimony.
- Remarriage of recipient spouse: Alimony payments usually end when the recipient spouse remarries, as it is assumed the new spouse is now meeting the recipient’s financial needs.
- Severe illness: If either party suffers a severe illness that significantly impacts their financial circumstances, this could be considered a substantial and material change.
- Change in financial needs: If the recipient spouse experiences a significant change in economic conditions, such as health issues or increased living costs, this could be seen as a substantial change in circumstances.
- Cohabitation: When the recipient spouse begins to cohabitate with another person in a relationship that resembles a marriage, the paying spouse may petition the court to adjust the alimony payments. The key consideration in such a case is whether the recipient spouse's new living arrangement has significantly changed financial circumstances.
It is important to remember that the decision to modify an alimony order is always at the court’s discretion. The court will evaluate the entirety of the situation, considering factors such as the financial circumstances of each party, the terms of the original divorce settlement, and the duration and amount of the initial alimony award.
With any modification request, the party seeking the change bears the burden of proof, and it's essential to provide clear evidence demonstrating the substantial change in circumstances.
As with child custody or child support modifications, seeking or contesting an alimony modification can be legally complex and emotionally draining. Effective legal representation can give you the guidance and support you need.
Experienced Legal Help for Family Court Orders in Idaho
At Gem State Family Law, our seasoned attorney has the experience and understanding to navigate the intricacies of child custody and support or alimony modifications. Whether you are seeking or opposing a modification, we can fiercely advocate for your and your child’s best interests while pursuing the most favorable outcome for your situation.
Call a team member at (208) 203-7422 or submit our contact form to get started today.
Client Testimonials
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From the first day I met Frank I knew he was the only choice! Frank treated my family as if it were his own, tirelessly working to help me in my custody case! I feel as if I have not only gained my daughter back in my life but have also gained a family friend for many years to come! If you need someone who is not only hardworking and passionate but also honest caring and attentive toward specific needs and desires in your case then I highly recommend Frank! Thanks, Frank! I have my daughter back because of you!!!
- Richard S. -
If any of my friends are in need of a fantastic family law attorney, I wouldn't hesitate to give them Frank's contact information. From beginning to finish, he was kind, realistic, and prompt with returning phone calls or taking care of anything that needed to be done on my behalf. In addition to his unwavering professionalism, he never hesitated to ease my worries or concerns. If you are looking for an attorney who will aid in making you feel confident, comfortable, and knowledgeable, look no further than Frank Leavitt.
- J.J. -
This can be a lengthy review so I'll keep it brief & provide the "need to knows". You need to know: The team is committed to you & your case. Although juggling multiple & various levels of difficulty, court cases, you area always made a priority and handled with the utmost care and respect. Frank is an amazing attorney and will fight for you tooth & nail. Once you two agree on a plan, he will run into a brick wall for you no matter who he has to combat. Frank will always shoot truth and never hype a situation to be what it isn't. I could say more and more, but I think you understand the drift. Not even a question, you should sign on & hire this family team. Frank will be family to me long after my case is resolved. That's the bond we've built. Not to mention, Frank's suit game is impeccable.”
- Padric H. -
After a lot of research I chose Frank Leavitt to help me with a child custody matter and I am so happy I did. He is wonderful, I felt he represented me expertly; I could not have gone through those proceedings without his advice, knowledge and expertise. Always punctual, kept me abreast of all happenings, always had my back in court.
- Shannon M. -
I can't recommend this law firm enough! They handled my issues with total professionalism with great advice. They weather the storm for you so you can keep your blood pressure down. I worked with Frank Leavitt and I can't say enough about how excellent he is to work with. THANK YOU!!!!
- Troy G. -
After filing for my divorce with previous council and not getting the results I was expecting. I came to Leavitt Law Firm and got the best service I could ask for. After relaying my case to Frank. He fixed all the screw-ups my previous attorney failed to achieve. Frank is effecient, honest, and professional. I couldn't ask for a better Law Firm. Thanks, Frank
- Elvin B. -
If you are looking for a family law firm to help with your custody matter, contact Leavitt Law Firm and set up a consultation with Frank Leavitt. Words can’t begin to describe what an amazing job he did in my case. He handled the madness in stride, gave sound advice and was well-versed in the issues at the time of all hearings. He was well prepared for everything. When things hit the fan, I was lucky to have him in my corner. He was kind, compassionate, patient, understanding as an individual and knowledgeable in both facts and law as an attorney. Again, call Frank if you need an attorney for family matters.
- Christopher F. -
I hired Frank Leavitt for my custody case and I am so glad I did! I had gone through horrible attorneys prior, had spent over 20k in attorneys fees before finding him. I wish I had found Frank from the start! He returns all emails and calls, never have to wait more than 24 hours for a response from him. He listens to everything you have to say and is very sincere. He fought hard for me and my children, I can't thank him enough. The staff at Leavitt office is also very kind and attentive, also very clean inside. From someone who has gone through multiple attorneys and spent thousands and thousands, trust me when I say Frank Leavitt is the way to go!!!
- Jasmin L.