Modifications

Modifying Family Law Orders in Arizona

Life rarely stays the same after a divorce or custody case, and Arizona law allows many court orders to be changed when circumstances change. Arizona family law modifications can address parenting time, legal decision-making, child support, and spousal maintenance. To change most orders, you generally must show a substantial and continuing change in circumstances since the last order was entered.

Parenting Time and Legal Decision-Making

A parent can ask the court to modify parenting time or legal decision-making when a move, a change in a child’s needs, or a concern about safety makes the current schedule unworkable. Arizona applies specific waiting periods and standards to these requests, and the court always focuses on the best interests of the child.

Child Support and Spousal Maintenance

Child support can be modified when incomes, parenting time, or child-related costs change enough to alter the guideline calculation, generally by at least fifteen percent. Spousal maintenance may also be modified unless the parties agreed it would be non-modifiable. Because these orders are not changed retroactively, it is important to file promptly when your situation changes.

Talk to a Tucson Attorney About Arizona Family Law Modifications

Whether you need to raise or lower support, adjust a parenting plan, or respond to the other party’s request, an experienced attorney can help you pursue Arizona family law modifications effectively. Learn more about child custody and child support, or contact our Tucson office to schedule a consultation. Arizona modification law is set out in A.R.S. 25-411.