As we wind down the Christmas/New Years holiday, you have undoubtedly spent some quality time with your children. As a father, it can be difficult to maintain a strong relationship with your children after a divorce or separation. Court orders often dictate the amount of time you are able to spend with your kids, and it can be frustrating if you feel like you are not able to spend enough time with them. However, there are steps you can take to modify your court order and gain more time with your children. Here are five reasonable ways to do so:
Communication with Your Ex-Partner:
The first step in trying to modify your court order should be to communicate with your ex-partner. It is important to approach this conversation with respect and a willingness to compromise. It may be possible to come to an agreement on a new custody schedule without the need for legal action.
Modify Your Court Order – Mediation:
If communication with your ex-partner is not successful, you may want to consider mediation. A mediator is a neutral third party who can help facilitate communication between you and your ex-partner and assist in finding a mutually beneficial solution.
Seek Legal Counsel:
If mediation is not an option or does not lead to a resolution, you may want to consider seeking legal counsel. A family law attorney can help you understand your rights and options for modifying your court order.
Modify Your Court Order – Demonstrate a Change in Circumstances:
In order to successfully modify a court order, you will need to demonstrate that there has been a significant change in circumstances since the original order was issued. This could include changes in your work schedule, your Ex-partner’s work schedule, or other factors that affect your ability or her ability to care for your children.
Propose a New Custody Schedule:
Once you have a good understanding of your rights and options, you can begin to propose a new custody schedule that reflects your desire for more time with your children. It is important to be reasonable and considerate of your Ex-partner’s needs as well. It may be helpful to present a schedule that includes options for make-up time if one parent is unable to care for the children on a particular day.
Modifying a court order can be a complicated process, and it is important to seek the guidance of a family law attorney if you are considering taking this step. However, with patience and a willingness to compromise, it is possible to come to an agreement that allows you to spend more time with your children.
Remember, the most important thing is the well-being of your children. It is essential to maintain a positive and healthy relationship with your Ex, as this will benefit your children in the long run. By following these five steps and working with your Ex-partner, you can modify your court order and gain more time with your kids.
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