Modifications

When Can a Court Order Be Modified?

Florida law allows custody, support, and alimony orders to be modified if there has been a substantial change in circumstances. Examples include:

• Significant increase or decrease in income

• Job loss, retirement, or disability

• A parent’s relocation (moving more than 50 miles away)

• Changes in a child’s medical, educational, or emotional needs

• Evidence of abuse, neglect, or unsafe living conditions

• A former spouse’s remarriage or supportive relationship

The change must be unanticipated, substantial, and permanent to justify modification. Our attorneys evaluate whether your circumstances qualify and build a strong case on your behalf.

Child Custody & Parenting Plan Modifications

Parenting plans and time-sharing schedules may need to change as children grow and circumstances evolve. Courts will only approve modifications if the change is in the best interests of the child. Examples include:

• Adjustments to accommodate school or extracurricular activities

• Relocation by one parent

• Safety or stability concerns

McNary Law represents parents seeking to modify custody arrangements and those defending against unnecessary or harmful changes.

Child Support Modifications

Child support is based on Florida’s guidelines, but orders can be adjusted when circumstances change, such as:

• A parent’s income significantly increases or decreases

• Changes in healthcare or childcare expenses

• Substantial changes to time-sharing schedules

We ensure support calculations remain accurate and fair, representing both parents in modification cases.

Alimony Modifications

Alimony (spousal support) may be reduced, increased, or terminated if there is a substantial change in circumstances, including:

• Retirement of the paying spouse

• A significant increase or decrease in income

• The receiving spouse becoming self-supporting

• The receiving spouse remarrying or entering into a supportive relationship

Our attorneys help clients pursue or contest alimony modifications, protecting their financial stability.

Enforcement vs. Modification

It’s important to distinguish between enforcing an existing order and modifying it. Enforcement ensures compliance with current terms, while modification seeks to change the terms altogether. McNary Law assists clients with both, depending on their needs.

Modification FAQs

Can custody or support be changed just because parents agree?
Yes, but the agreement must be submitted to and approved by the court to be legally enforceable.

Can I stop paying child support if I lose my job?
No. You must request a formal modification through the court. Stopping payments without approval can lead to penalties.

What if my ex-spouse won’t agree to a modification?
The court can still grant a modification if you prove there has been a substantial change in circumstances.

Can alimony be terminated if my ex remarries?
Yes. Remarriage or entering into a supportive relationship is grounds to terminate most types of alimony.

Why Choose McNary Law?

At McNary Law, we understand that life changes quickly, and family law orders must adapt. Guided by our core values of honesty, integrity, and compassionate problem-solving, our Bradenton and Sarasota attorneys provide skilled advocacy in modification cases, ensuring your rights and your children’s best interests are protected.

Contact McNary Law Today

If your custody, support, or alimony order no longer reflects your family’s needs, we can help. Our modification attorneys will evaluate your case and guide you through the process with care and skill.