A child custody arrangement is a legal plan to help divorced parents organize the shared custody of their children. Custody arrangements may detail when each parent is expected to take responsibility for their children and what they are expected to provide. However, child custody arrangements may become complicated as children grow and each parent’s schedules change.
If parents want to change a custody arrangement in any significant way, they need to request approval from a judge. However, judges may not immediately approve a custody arrangement change. Here is what you should know:
Why a judge may approve an updated custody arrangement
If both parents agree to alter a custody arrangement, many judges will approve the change. However, parents may need to provide evidence that an updated arrangement is in the best interests of their children. There are a few reasons why a judge might approve a change, including:
- Relocation: If a parent moves, there may be some distance between both parents, which can make meeting custody times difficult. Parents may need to negotiate a new schedule so that each parent can spend time with their children.
- Work or school schedule change: A parent’s work or school schedule may conflict with a custody schedule. Changing the arrangement may benefit parents and children.
- Child’s needs: A child may develop health conditions that require more attention. An altered arrangement may give parents more time to care for their child.
- Parental abuse or negligence: A parent may request an altered arrangement because there is evidence that the other parent has neglected their duties or abused their child.
Parents can seek legal guidance to help change a custody arrangement so that their case is presented to the court in the best possible light.