For parents moving toward a divorce, one of the most pressing issues they face is in regards to the custody of a child. After your divorce is final, you may wonder if you can change who has custody of a child. Keep reading for the facts to help you gain some clarity on this important topic.
Any attorney will tell you that this issue tends to be the issue that creates the most conflict between parents going through a divorce. It helps to understand the facts surrounding child custody laws and what it means to your unique situation.
It’s true judges will make changes in who has custody after a divorce. However, these changes only happen if the change is in the best interest of the child. The court strives to make decisions based on what is best for the child or children involved.
Making Changes to Custody of Child after Divorce
Both child custody and child support can be modified after divorce if circumstances for you, your former spouse or your child change. For example, if a child is not doing well in school and you believe the problem is the home environment, you can ask the court to order a change.
Other circumstances that may call for a change in custody after a divorce:
- An older child wishes to live with a different parent.
- A parent has an issue with drugs, alcohol or mental health that is not being addressed.
- The parent with primary physical custody wishes to remove a child from the state.
- A parent becomes unemployed and can no longer support the child financially.
Family Law Attorney
When it comes to making custody changes after a divorce, it is important to have a professional attorney. They can help to answer your questions and guide you through the process. There are also certain cases in which it will be especially helpful to have a legal firm working with you on a child custody case. Legal firms can bring in professionals like child psychologists or a Guardian ad Litem to offer support to your request. In a difficult custody case, this professional assistance can make all the difference.
If you have questions as you seek a change in custody of a child following a divorce, we can help. Call (770) 475-2521 to contact on of our family law attorneys in Alpharetta today to find out what you can do.
