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Modifications

Changes to Custody, Visitation, Support and Alimony

When your circumstances or those of your ex-spouse change, the arrangements that were finalized when the divorce process was completed may be modified by the court. It is important to have court approval for modifications even if you both agree; only when the change is approved by the Family Court judge will you be able to enforce the agreement. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the process.

Changes in income, living situation or health can lead to modification.

For information about petitioning for a modification of child custody, support or alimony, contact my Charleston, West Virginia, law office. Call attorney Shawn Taylor to learn about your options when your life changes. Dial 304-345-5959 toll-free.

Typical reasons for a modification

I help people obtain modifications of orders after:

  • Job loss
  • Demotion
  • Promotion
  • Request for a custody change by a child
  • Relocation
  • Failure to pay child support
  • Failure to comply with terms of original agreement
  • Recognition that the current plan is harmful to the child
  • Remarriage
  • Birth of another child
  • Illness

A Family Court judge must approve any changes

In many cases, both parties agree to the change, and the process is uncomplicated. However, the judge may still want to investigate. For example, he or she may interview an older child to determine how a custody change or a relocation might change the child's life. If it appears that the child would be harmed by a relocation or visitation schedule change, the judge may rule against the petitioner. If the parties disagree, the Court may appoint a guardian to investigate your lives and file a report.

Learn about your rights and your options

I advise clients about their options and their rights when either filing or responding to a request for a modification. I also counsel them about the probable outcome of a modification petition. If your circumstances or those of your ex have changed since the final decree, contact my West Virginia law firm to learn how I can help make the modification process work for you. Call me toll-free at 304-345-5959.


A Charleston, West Virginia, law firm serving cities such as Madison, Beckley, Huntington, Spencer, Winfield, Ripley, Hamlin, Pineville, Parkersburg, Clarksburg, Morgantown, Princeton, Fairmont, Summersville, Elkview, Clendenin, Clay, Oak Hill, Fayetteville, Logan, Williamson, Madison, Danville, Alum Creek, Winfield, Hurricane, Teays Valley, Scott Depot, Red House , Buffalo, Pt Pleasant, Ceredo and all the communities in Kanawha County, Boone County, Cabell County, Lincoln County, Logan County, McDowell County, Raleigh County, Fayette County, Clay County, Roane County, Putnam County, Jackson County, Mingo County, Wood County, Monongalia County, Harrison County, Marion County and Mason County.

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