How Can I Modify a Child Custody Order in Maryland?
If your circumstances have changed, you may be asking yourself, “How can I modify a child custody order in Maryland?” Perhaps you’ve been fired from your job or your schedule has changed and you’d like more time with your kids. No matter what your situation is, a child custody order can be modified. However, you’ll have to comply with Maryland laws and regulations in order to do so. There are certain qualifications you must meet in order to modify a child custody order.
For those who have a child custody case in Maryland, it’s important to have an experienced attorney by your side. Our skilled lawyers at Lebovitz Law, LLC can provide you with helpful advice every step of the way. Visit our website or get in touch with us today to schedule a consultation.
How Modifying a Child Custody Order Works
Child custody orders can be modified after they are officially approved. In the state of Maryland, the court system always prioritizes what’s best for the child, and rightfully so. However, this also means that modifying a child custody order can be very difficult. You will need to prove that the newer agreement would be better for your child than the previous agreement. In order to do this, irrefutable evidence will be necessary.
If the child in question is in any sort of danger or they are at risk of being neglected, the court will most likely act in your favor. For instance, perhaps you have proof that the other parent left the child (who was under the age of 8) unattended for hours. This would be a legitimate reason to modify a child custody order. Attempting to do so just because it’s more feasible for you, though, will not likely be successful.
“Material Change” Qualifications
To modify a child custody case in Maryland, you have to prove that a significant material change has occurred since the last case was issued. The qualifications for a “material change” to the previous case include:
- Moving out of Maryland
- Harassment, assault or abuse
- Any situation that puts the child at risk
- Failure to comply to previous order
- Misapplication of custody funds
- Disrupting the previous case’s court-ordered visitation agreement
Plenty of other situations can arise that may necessitate a modification. However, these do not automatically guarantee that the modification will be accepted. If you’ve lost your job or you were recently released from prison, you can bring these concerns to a judge. Ideally, you want to provide as much evidence as you can to persuade the court.
What is “Best Interest”?
Qualifying for a material change is only one step in the modification process. Next, you have to prove that your child will benefit from the change. Ultimately, the main goal is to prove that modifying the child custody order is in your child’s best interest.
There is no sure-fire way to do this. It all depends on how the judge perceives your case; they will look at all the evidence you’ve presented in order to come to a decision. Unfortunately, if your request is denied, you’ll have to start over from the beginning. Hiring the right lawyer is incredibly important if you want to succeed. They can help you provide pertinent evidence and fight for your case in court. At Lebovitz Law, LLC, we understand how much you care about your child’s welfare. Modifying a child custody order in Maryland is never easy, but we’re here to help you achieve the right outcome.
Need to Modify a Child Custody Order? The Attorneys at Lebovitz Law, LLC Can Help
Whether you are searching for an experienced lawyer to assist with your divorce, negotiating child support in Maryland or other issues, the attorneys at Lebovitz Law, LLC can help. To learn more about how we can assist you, please contact us today at (410) 657-6494.
