When a couple divorces, one of the most important results is the child custody agreement. Whether the agreement is easily worked out or is contentious, at some point the initial agreement may need to be modified. If you are involved in a middle income divorce or high net worth divorce and believe NYC divorce mediation would be the best route to pursue these changes, consider scheduling a consultation with the Law Firm and Mediation Practice of Alla Roytberg.
Material Change
Any changes made should be in the best interests of the child. The most common reason for modification is what is known as a change of circumstances. Examples of this can include:
–One parent moving (relocating) to another state or country
–Custodial parent being seen as unfit or neglectful
–Child’s living conditions are unsafe
–The Child wants to live with the other parent
In these or other circumstances, the goal is to make sure the child’s physical and emotional needs are being met.
Avoiding Court
In many situations, parents are choosing to bypass traditional court hearings and instead use NYC divorce mediation to modify child custody agreements. Very popular in middle income divorce and high net worth divorce alike, this option allows both parents to maintain much more control over the process. By having an experienced and knowledgeable mediator help negotiate changes to the agreement, it is highly likely the court will approve the changes without question.
Proving the Need for Changes
When requesting changes to a child custody agreement, it is important to have proof that changes do in fact need to be made. Examples can include testimony from doctors or therapists about a child’s physical or emotional condition, financial records proving an inability to provide for the child, and other evidence that can show that immediate modifications must be made.
If you believe changes need to be made to your existing child custody agreement, contact the Law Firm and Mediation Practice of Alla Roytberg for a consultation.
