How do I have the custody agreement modified?

Full question:

I got a divorce three years ago and did not have the money to contest custody of my kids at the time. The kids stay with their grandparents. What rights do I have to have the custody order modified?

  • Category: Divorce
  • Subcategory: Child Custody
  • Date:
  • State: Louisiana

Answer:

Courts have the power to modify child custody arrangements to meet the needs of the child and to respond to changes in the parents' lives. A parent seeking to change custody through the court usually must show that the conditions have changed substantially since the last custody order. The change of circumstance usually involves something negative in the child's current environment--such as improper supervision, or harmful conflicts with the custodial parent or stepparent. In addition to showing a change in circumstances, the parent seeking a change of custody must show;that he or she can provide a better environment for the child than the child's current environment.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

In Georgia, a parent can deny a grandparent visitation rights unless the grandparents have been granted legal visitation by the court. Grandparents can petition for visitation if they can show that it is in the best interest of the child. However, parents generally have the right to make decisions about their child's upbringing, including who can visit them.