Modifications
Life doesn't stand still after a court judgment is signed. Jobs change, children grow, and people move. At Blast Legal, we recognize that a court order from five years ago may no longer fit your reality today. We specialize in helping clients adjust Child Support, Alimony, and Parenting Plans to reflect current circumstances. Whether you need to relocate for a new career, adjust support due to a change in income, or modify a time-sharing schedule to better serve your child, we provide the legal leverage to update your judgment. We ensure that your request meets the strict legal standard so you don't waste time or money on a claim that won't hold up in court.
How to Modify a Court Order in Florida: Child Support, Custody, and Alimony
A Final Judgment of Dissolution or Paternity is meant to provide stability, but it isn't necessarily "forever." Florida law acknowledges that life is unpredictable. When significant life events occur, the law provides a mechanism to update your court orders. This process is called a "Modification."
The Golden Rule: "Substantial Change in Circumstances"
You cannot modify a court order just because you changed your mind or are unhappy with the original deal. To succeed, you must prove a Substantial Change in Circumstances.
Modifying Child Support
This is the most common type of modification. You can typically request a review if your income (or the other parent's income) has changed enough that the new support amount would differ by at least 15% or $50 (whichever is greater) from the current order. This also applies if a child turns 18, graduates high school, or if daycare costs disappear.
Modifying Time-Sharing (Custody)
Changing a parenting schedule is harder than changing support. The court requires proof that the modification is in the best interests of the child.
Modifying Alimony
Alimony modifications often hinge on financial shifts, such as retirement or the paying spouse's involuntary loss of income. Additionally, under Florida statute, if the spouse receiving alimony enters into a supportive relationship, the paying spouse may be able to terminate or reduce alimony.
Never rely on an informal verbal agreement with your ex to change payments or schedules. If they change their mind later, you could be held in contempt for violating the original order. Always make it official.