Spring is a season of renewal—time to open the windows, declutter the house, and tackle those long-overdue to-do lists. While you’re cleaning out closets and organizing your garage, it’s also a great time to revisit your legal documents, especially if you have a custody or support agreement in place.
In New Jersey, custody and support orders are not set in stone. Life changes, and the court recognizes that what worked for your family at the time of your original agreement may not work today. That’s why it’s smart to treat these legal arrangements as living documents—ones that should reflect your family’s current situation.
Why Revisit Your Custody or Support Agreement?
Over time, many families experience changes that may warrant a legal update. Some common reasons to reassess include:
- Work or schedule changes: If one parent’s job has shifted—new hours, remote work, or a different commute—it might affect custody exchanges or weekend time.
- Relocation: Whether it’s a move across town or to a different part of New Jersey, even small relocations can impact parenting plans and school logistics.
- Children’s changing needs: As kids grow older, their schedules fill with school, sports, and social activities, which may make your current parenting plan feel out of sync.
- Financial changes: If either parent has a significant change in income, that can affect child support or alimony obligations. In New Jersey, either party can request a modification if there’s been a substantial change in circumstances.
What to Look for in Your Agreement
Take a fresh look at your custody or support documents with the following questions in mind:
- Is the current parenting schedule still working for everyone?
- Are there ongoing conflicts or gray areas that cause stress?
- Have there been changes in income, expenses, or family dynamics?
- Are all terms still in the best interest of the children?
If any of these questions give you pause, it may be time to consider a modification.
How Modifications Work in New Jersey
In New Jersey, custody and support orders can be modified if one or both parties can show a “substantial change in circumstances.” This might include job loss, increased medical expenses, relocation, or a change in the child’s needs. If both parties agree to the changes, a consent order can be submitted to the court. If not, you may need to file a motion and attend a court hearing to seek approval for the modification.
It’s important to go through the proper legal channels—verbal agreements won’t hold up in court if a dispute arises later.
Bauer & Karch Can Help Keep Your Custody or Support Documents Up to Date
Spring is the perfect time to check in—not just with your home, but with your legal affairs, too. Making sure your custody or support agreement still makes sense can prevent future conflict and ensure your children’s best interests are being met.
If you’re in New Jersey and aren’t sure whether your current agreement still fits your family’s needs, the attorneys at Bauer & Karch are here to help. Contact our office to schedule a consultation—we’re happy to guide you through the process.