After a couple divorces and gets a custody or support order, their circumstances often change. Some of those changes may necessitate a modification to their existing legal agreements or judgments.Â
A significant change in employment status or a severe medical condition may make it difficult or even impossible to comply with the terms of the judgment or agreement. For example, if a parent finds themselves out of work for an extended period, they may be unable to continue to pay the ordered or agreed upon child support amount. Â
In these instances, an experienced judgment modifications attorney in Sherman Oaks can assist in proving the need for a modification, allowing the agreement to be adjusted to align with the current situation.
Additionally, post-judgment actions may become essential when one party fails to comply with the original terms of a divorce agreement. For instance, in cases involving the division of property, one or both parties may disregard the established plan by selling or transferring an asset without appropriately dividing the proceeds. In such scenarios, it is important to seek the guidance and representation of a skilled Sherman Oaks family law lawyer to facilitate the necessary legal proceedings to rectify the situation through a judgment modification. Contact Diarian & Bociaga today to schedule a free consultation by calling (818) 205-9090.Â
California Family Court Judgment Modifications
After a divorce, many aspects of the legal agreements or court’s judgment may be modified under the right circumstances. Some types of judgments that may be modified include:
- Child Support Modifications – Child support payments may be adjusted if there is a substantial change in either parent’s financial situation, such as a job loss, promotion, or change in the child’s needs.
- Child Custody and Visitation Modifications – Custody and visitation may be modified if there are significant changes in the child’s or either parent’s circumstances that affect the existing arrangement.
- Spousal Support Modifications – Alimony or spousal support payments may be modified if there is a substantial change in either party’s financial situation, such as a job loss or loss of other income.
- Marital Settlement Agreement Modifications – In some cases, the terms of a marital settlement agreement, which outlines the division of assets and liabilities, can be modified if there are significant changes in circumstances or if the agreement was based on incomplete or inaccurate information.
Typically, the party seeking a modification must demonstrate that a substantial and material change in circumstances has occurred since the original order or agreement was established. This change must be significant enough to warrant a revision of the existing arrangement. Some potential situations that may justify a judgment modification could include:
- A relocation or move by either party that affects the existing arrangement
- A significant change in the child’s needs or living situation
- A substantial increase or decrease in either party’s income or financial resources
- A change in employment status or earning capacity
- A medical or health-related issue affecting either party or the child
- Any other significant change in circumstances that impacts the fairness or practicality of the existing order or agreement
Situations warranting a modification will depend on the unique circumstances of each case and may vary depending on the jurisdiction. Consulting with a knowledgeable judgment modifications lawyer in Sherman Oaks is important in understanding your options and to advocate for your rights. Â
Contact Our Sherman Oaks Judgment Modifications Attorneys Today
If your circumstances have changed and your family law agreement or court ordered judgment no longer works for your family, you should speak to a skilled judgment modifications attorney. At Diarian & Bociaga, we will review the facts of your situation and discuss all your options. If a new agreement can not be reached, we will aggressively advocate for your rights and demonstrate the need for modification to the court. Contact us today for a consultation.