Helping Clients With Post-Decree Court Order Modifications
Family court orders are made based on the circumstances at the time, such as each party’s income or your child’s needs at the time. If your life circumstances have changed significantly since then and you need an adjustment to the terms of your court order, then you will need to ask the court for a modification. From the firm’s office in Burnsville, Meinerts Law Office, P.A., can help you pursue a court order modification that works for you.
When Can A Court Order Be Modified?
At Meinerts Law Office, P.A., attorney Merlyn Meinerts understands that when your life changes drastically and unexpectedly, it can cause a great deal of stress. Even if you and your ex-spouse can come to an agreement on the proposed changes, you cannot simply change the terms without going through the proper legal process. He is here to help guide you through the modification process as smoothly as possible.
He can help you with the following types of modifications:
- Child support modifications: If your financial situation has changed and you can no longer pay as much money or your child’s needs have increased, the amount of child support being paid should change too.
- Child custody and parenting time modifications: Has there been a substantial change in circumstances since the original custody and parenting time Order? We can help you change your parenting schedule or custody agreement.
- Spousal maintenance modifications: Have you been receiving spousal support and suddenly had an improvement in circumstances? Or have you been paying and want to revisit the amount you owe?
With decades of family law experience, attorney Meinerts can help you navigate these life changes and ensure that your court orders reflect your evolving situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Modifications
If you’re considering a post-decree modification, you’re likely to have questions about the process. Below you will find some of the most commonly asked questions attorney Meinerts hears from clients, which will hopefully provide you with some clarity during this difficult time. For any further inquiries, you can reach out via email or call 952-208-8500 to schedule a consultation.
What is a post-decree modification in family law?
Post-decree modifications allow families to revise a legal order that was set in place by the court previously, such as during a divorce. When that original decree no longer aligns with your current needs or your circumstances have changed significantly since it was made, you may request a modification with the court. Post-decree modifications in family law often occur with child custody, child support and spousal support.
Can both parties agree to a modification without going to court?
Major modifications generally require court approval, as this is the only way to enforce the changes. Smaller revisions, such as for child drop-off locations in a custody agreement, may be done without court authorization, but parents will need to go to court for significant modifications to parenting time, relocation or other changes. If both parties agree to the modifications, it can help expedite the court process. By ensuring you have court approval on your post-decree modification, you can hold a co-parent accountable if they violate the newly modified terms.
Are there any fees associated with filing for a modification?
Yes. In Minnesota, there are court fees that you must pay for filing for child custody, support or alimony modifications. These fees can range between $50 to $285. However, if you have low income or cannot pay the necessary fees, there are options available that may help waive the costs.
What evidence is needed to support a request for modification?
When you pursue modification of an existing order, you must demonstrate that there is a significant change in circumstances that warrants the modification. Gathering the following types of evidence may help you prove a modification is necessary:
- Financial records such as tax returns, bank statements and pay stubs
- Medical records
- School records
- Witness statements
- Communication records such as emails and text messages
Any of these types of documents can help show why you may need to modify an existing family law order. The more evidence you can provide, the better your chances are of a successful outcome.
What is the role of an attorney in the modification process?
Family law modifications can be tricky to pursue, as you generally need the approval of the other party as well as the court. Your ex-spouse may not agree with your terms, or the court may not believe your situation warrants a revised order. Working with a skilled family law attorney can help you gather the necessary evidence and build a strong case to present in front of a judge. Attorney Meinerts has years of experience in handling these complex cases with the care and compassion they deserve. He will assist you every step of the way to achieve favorable results for the whole family.
Get Answers To Your Questions Today
If you wonder whether your court orders should be modified to better reflect on your life today, call Meinerts Law Office, P.A., at 952-208-8500 or contact the firm online. Attorney Meinerts would be happy to guide you through your options in a no-cost phone consultation.