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 clarify this important topic.
Any attorney will tell you that child custody tends to create the most conflict between parents going through a divorce. Understanding the facts surrounding child custody laws and what they mean to your unique situation can help.
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 making custody changes after a divorce, it is crucial to have a professional attorney. They can help answer your questions and guide you through the process. There are also some instances in which it will be beneficial 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 support your request. This professional assistance can make all the difference in a difficult custody case.
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 one of our family law attorneys in Alpharetta today to find out what you can do.
