Modifications

Life changes - your court orders should too. We help you make the legal adjustments you need.

After a divorce or family law order is finalized, it’s common for life circumstances to shift—whether it’s a change in income, relocation, or a child’s evolving needs. In New York, you may be eligible to modify an existing custody, child support, or spousal support order if there’s been a substantial change in circumstances.

At The Schreck Law Group, our experienced family law attorneys can help you seek or respond to a modification, making sure your legal agreements continue to serve your family's current reality.

📞 Schedule a consultation today to discuss your options for modifying a family court order.

⚖️ What Court Orders Can Be Modified?

👶 Child Custody

You can request a change to custody or parenting time when it’s in your child’s best interests. Common reasons include:

• Relocation of a parent

• A change in the child’s needs or routine

• A parent’s new job, health condition, or behavior

• A child’s mature preference (typically age 12+)

💰 Child Support

Support orders can be increased or decreased due to:

• A significant change in income (job loss, promotion, disability)

• New educational or medical expenses for the child

• A change in custody or parenting time

• Remarriage or new dependents of the paying parent

New York applies the Child Support Standards Act (CSSA) when reviewing support changes. A “substantial change” must be proven for the court to act.

👫 Spousal Support (Alimony)

Spousal maintenance may be modified or terminated if:

• The payer’s income drops, or the recipient becomes self-supporting

• One party experiences serious illness or disability

• The recipient is cohabitating with a new partner

• The recipient remarries

📑 How the Modification Process Works in New York

1. Document the Change
   Gather evidence showing how your circumstances have changed significantly since the original court order.

2. File a Motion
   Submit a formal request for modification to the court that issued the original order.

3. Attend a Court Hearing
   Both parties will have the opportunity to present arguments and evidence.

4. Receive the Court’s Decision
   If approved, the judge will issue a new court order reflecting the changes.

👩‍⚖️ Why You Need a Lawyer for Modifications

While you can technically file a request yourself, a family law attorney can dramatically improve your chances of success. Here’s how:

1. 📚 Legal Expertise

We help you determine if your situation qualifies for a modification and ensure you follow court procedures correctly.

2. 🧾 Proper Documentation

We gather and organize financial, medical, or parenting records that clearly support your request.

3. 🎯 Strategic Advocacy

Whether in court or during negotiation, we help build the strongest possible case for the outcome you need.

4. ⚖️ Protecting Your Rights

If the other party is seeking a change you don’t agree with, we’ll fight to protect your existing rights and ensure fairness.

5. 🔄 Long-Term Planning

Life may change again—our firm helps you craft flexible, future-ready agreements that minimize future disputes.

💼 How The Schreck Law Group Supports You

Whether you’re seeking to change an order or defend against one, our attorneys provide hands-on, knowledgeable support throughout the entire process:

✔️ Evaluate Your Case – We assess whether your change in circumstances meets the legal standard for modification.
✔️ Handle the Paperwork – We prepare and file the correct forms, on time, and error-free.
✔️ Negotiate or Litigate – We’ll help settle disputes out of court if possible—or represent you at hearings if needed.
✔️ Enforce New Terms – Once your order is modified, we’ll ensure it’s properly enforced.

At The Schreck Law Group, we know that family law doesn’t end with a signed order. We’re here for the long term—helping you adjust agreements to match your evolving life.

📞 Ready to Update Your Family Law Agreement?

If your custody, support, or spousal maintenance order no longer fits your situation, don’t wait. We’ll help you take the right legal steps to protect yourself and your family.

🔗 Contact The Schreck Law Group today for a confidential consultation.
💡 Visit our FAQ page or browse our Insights articles to learn more about the modification process in New York.