La Plata Post-Divorce Modification Lawyer
Helping You Adjust to Life’s Changes With Legal Solutions That Work
Divorce orders are meant to provide stability—but life rarely stands still. A new job, a medical emergency, a relocation, or a change in a child’s needs can quickly make a custody, support, or alimony order outdated or unworkable. Fortunately, Maryland law allows for the modification of family court orders when circumstances change significantly.
At Fanning Law, we help clients in Charles County and Southern Maryland seek or defend against modifications of court orders related to child custody, visitation, child support, and spousal support. With over 30 years of experience in Southern Maryland family law, La Plata modifications lawyer William C. Fanning, Jr. provides steady, results-driven counsel for individuals looking to adapt court orders to reflect new realities.
When Can a Family Court Order Be Modified in Maryland?
Not every change in your life will justify a legal modification. Maryland courts require a material change in circumstances—something significant, ongoing, and unforeseen at the time the original order was entered.
Depending on the type of order, a material change might include, for example:
- Job loss or promotion
- Changes in income or financial status
- Illness or disability
- Relocation of a parent
- Changes in a child’s educational or medical needs
- Violation of the existing court order
- Remarriage or cohabitation in alimony cases
If the change is substantial and affects the practicality or fairness of the current arrangement, you may have grounds to seek a modification through the court.
Modifying Child Custody and Visitation in La Plata
Parenting plans must reflect the child’s best interests—but what’s best at the time of divorce may not work years later. A parent may move, remarry, or experience life changes that affect their ability to provide care. A child’s needs may also shift as they grow older.
Maryland courts will consider modifying a custody or visitation order if there has been a material change in circumstances and a modification would serve the best interests of the child. Examples of situations that may justify a change in custody or parenting time include:
- A parent’s relocation making the current schedule impractical
- Evidence that a parent is not complying with the existing order
- A change in the child’s school, medical, or emotional needs
- Concerns about safety, neglect, or substance abuse
At Fanning Law, we help parents request or contest custody modifications and build strong, child-focused arguments to support their position in court.
Modifying Child Support Post-Divorce
Child support is based on each parent’s income, the child’s needs, and other factors such as health insurance and daycare expenses. When circumstances change, the amount of support may need to change as well.
You may be able to seek a modification of child support if either parent’s income has significantly increased or decreased, if a parent becomes unemployed or disabled, or if the child’s expenses have changed (e.g., new medical needs or aging out of daycare). A change in custody arrangements that alters the number of overnight visits might justify a change in support as well.
The Maryland Child Support Guidelines provide a framework for calculating support, but deviations can occur in special circumstances. Attorney William C. Fanning, Jr. can help you understand whether a modification is likely and guide you through the process of requesting or opposing one.
Modifying Spousal Support (Alimony) in La Plata
Spousal support can also be modified if there’s been a material change in circumstances—unless the original order specifically states that it is non-modifiable. For example, a modification of alimony may be appropriate if:
- The paying spouse retires, loses a job, or suffers a reduction in income
- The recipient becomes self-supporting or remarries
- A party experiences a serious illness or disability
- The cost of living or financial needs change significantly
Courts are cautious when reviewing requests to change alimony, especially indefinite alimony. We help clients build a compelling case for modification—or defend their right to continued support—based on a clear understanding of Maryland’s legal standards and the unique facts of the case.
Can We Modify a Court Order by Agreement?
Yes. Many modifications are handled outside of court through mutual agreement. If both parties can agree to the proposed changes, you can submit a written agreement to the court for approval. This process is often faster, less expensive, and less adversarial than litigation.
Even if you and your ex-spouse are on good terms, it’s important to formalize any changes through the court. Verbal agreements are not enforceable, and you could face legal consequences if you fail to comply with the original court order—even if both of you agreed to do something different.
What If My Ex Refuses to Comply With the Court Order?
If your former spouse is not following the terms of a custody, support, or alimony order, you may need to pursue enforcement before or alongside seeking a modification. Whether it’s missed support payments, denied visitation, or relocation without permission, Fanning Law can help you assert your rights through the appropriate legal channels.
We assist clients with enforcement actions, contempt proceedings, and petitions to compel compliance with existing court orders.
Why Choose Fanning Law for Your Modification Case?
Post-divorce life is unpredictable. When circumstances change, you need a knowledgeable and responsive attorney to help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights. At Fanning Law, we offer decades of experience handling modification cases in Maryland. You’ll receive strategic advice based on your unique family and financial situation and personal, one-on-one attention from a seasoned legal advocate with strong negotiation and litigation skills, whether resolving the matter amicably or in court. We understand that modifying a court order can be just as stressful as the original divorce or custody case, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Serving La Plata, Charles County, and Southern Maryland
From our office in La Plata, Fanning Law serves clients throughout Southern Maryland, including Waldorf, Bowie, Annapolis, and all surrounding communities. We know the local courts, the local judges, and the practical concerns families face after divorce.
Ready for a Change? Let Fanning Law Help
If your current custody, support, or alimony order no longer reflects your reality, don’t wait to explore your legal options. Contact Fanning Law today. We’ll help you determine whether a modification is possible and develop a strategy that protects your future.
