Divorce is a life-altering event, and the terms of your Final Judgment may not always perfectly suit your evolving circumstances. In Central Florida, Post-Divorce modifications are quite common as people seek to adapt their Divorce agreements to better reflect their current realities. In this blog, we will explore three common reasons for a Post-Divorce modification in Orlando.
1. Financial Changes: Alimony and Child Support Modifications
Financial circumstances can change significantly following a Divorce, leading to the need for Post-Dissolution modifications. Two primary areas where financial adjustments may be required are Alimony and Child Support.
Alimony Modification:
Alimony, or Spousal Support, is typically awarded to one spouse to provide financial assistance after a Divorce. However, the situation could change, and a prior awarded arrangement may no longer be suitable. Common reasons for Alimony modifications include:
Job Loss: If the payor spouse loses their job or faces a substantial reduction in income, they may be unable to meet their Alimony obligations. In such cases, a modification can be sought to reduce the payments.
Also, if the recipient spouse loses their job or faces a substantial reduction in income, they may need additional support. In such cases, a modification may be sought to increase the payments.
Income Increase: On the other hand, if the recipient spouse experiences a significant increase in their income, it may be appropriate to reduce or terminate Alimony payments, as the need for financial support may diminish.
And if the payor spouse experiences a significant increase in their income, it may be appropriate to increase the alimony payments to the recipient spouse as the payor spouses’ financial ability may have increased substantially.
Child Support Modification:
Child Support is another financial aspect that may require adjustment Post-Divorce, primarily to ensure the child’s financial needs are met. Some reasons for Child Support modifications include:
Ability to Pay: If either parent experiences a significant change in income, it can impact the Child Support calculations. An increase in the paying parent’s income may lead to higher support payments, while a decrease in income might result in reduced payments.
And an increase in a recipient parent’s income may result in a decrease in the Child Support obligation, while a decrease in the recipient parent’s income may result in an increase in the Child Support obligation.
Changes in Child’s Needs: As children grow, their financial needs may change. For example, if a child’s medical expenses increase or their educational needs evolve, Child Support modifications may be necessary to address these new requirements.
2. Timesharing:
In Orlando, Florida, the term “Timesharing” is used to refer to Child Custody and visitation arrangements. These arrangements are crucial for the well-being of the child, but they may require modifications due to changing circumstances.
Changes in Parenting Ability: If a parent’s living situation, behavior, or relationships put the minor child’s well-being at risk, the Court may need to modify the Timesharing arrangement to protect the minor child’s best interests.
3. Re__cpLocation:
If one parent needs to move more than 50 miles from their current residence for work or personal reasons, it can disrupt the existing Timesharing schedule and necessitate the filing of a supplemental petition for Re__cpLocation or reaching an agreement with the other spouse with certain formalities.
Modifications may be needed to accommodate the new distance and ensure the child’s continued access to both parents.
As mentioned, Post-Divorce modifications in Orlando, Florida, are often pursued to adapt Divorce agreements to new life circumstances. Whether it’s financial changes related to Alimony and Child Support, modifications to Timesharing arrangements, or changes in Child Custody, the Court is open to revisiting Divorce terms when it’s in the best interests of the parties involved, especially the minor children. When life circumstances evolve, seeking a Post-Divorce modification with the assistance of a Family Law Attorney can help ensure that your Divorce agreement continues to meet your needs.
All of our Orlando Divorce Attorneys are here to help Family Law Clients navigate moving forward with a modification. To schedule a consultation, give us a call at 407-872-3161.
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