Child Custody Modifications in Vancouver WA

You may need a child custody modification for your children at some point.  Perhaps a parent has moved, developed a drug or alcohol problem, or engaged in behavior that puts your children at risk.  A child custody modification can be tricky though, so consulting with a family law attorney in Vancouver WA, might be a great first step before taking action.  To modify child custody typically, the moving party must demonstrate that there has been a “substantial change in the circumstances of the child or the nonmoving party and that the modification is in the best interest of the child and necessary to serve the best interests of the child.”  If you bring a child custody modification in bad faith, the court will award attorney fees to the other side, so it is vital to only seek modification where good legal grounds exist.  Additionally, the change in circumstances must have occurred after the initial custody order was entered.  The high burden to make a modification exists because changing custody is disfavored as being highly disruptive to children.

Before you can even bring a modification action, a judge must first find that “adequate cause” exists to bring the action.  This initial hurdle is designed to ferret out frivolous modification motions and dismiss them early.  Because modifications can be tricky, it is vital to consult with an experienced divorce attorney in Vancouver WA before filing.  It could save you time, money, and grief.

Get a Child Custody Modification Consultation

If you think your circumstances require a child custody modification, call to schedule a consultation with one of our child custody lawyers.  We offer a flat rate consultation for only $100 and can help you decide whether it makes sense for your family.  We can also help you implement a strategy to best achieve your modification goals.  We host consultations in our convenient downtown Vancouver WA office.