Although you are divorced, things may have changed and you now realize that you must change the terms of your Divorce Judgment. A Cook County divorce lawyer can review your circumstances with you to determine whether a post-divorce modification may be necessary. A skilled divorce attorney could then work to help you obtain the modification you are seeking. With dedicated legal aid from Reidy Law Office LLC by your side, you could have the best chance of a positive outcome.
There are many things that could warrant the change of a Judgment. Loss of a job, remarriage, or emergency medical expenses for a child are some situations that may warrant a post-divorce modification. 750 ILCS 5/510 further discusses the different types of modifications that may be available. One major reason people seek modifications are changes in circumstances affecting the children. There is not always a clear answer as to whether your situation is enough to modify the terms of a Judgment. An attorney can work with you to review your circumstances to determine whether a modification may be in your children’s best interests.
An order for child support may be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances, an inconsistency between the amount specified on the order and the amount of support paid, or a need to provide for the healthcare of a child (750 ILCS 5/510(a)(1) & (2).
Generally, you would need to wait two years to seek a change in custody unless the children are in danger. For changes in parenting time, you must be able to show that the change is in the best interest of the children. A modification may be necessary when there are changes in a parent’s schedule or the schedule of the children’s schedules. (750 ILCS 5/517 – Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act). Additionally, if one parent moves away, you may have to revisit the original parenting time schedule.
Depending on the circumstances, you may also be able to seek a modification in your spousal maintenance agreement. However, an order for the modification of maintenance may only occur if you can show substantial changes in circumstances. The court considers many factors such as:
The court considers all these factors and may consider others when deciding whether to modify maintenance. An attorney can advocate on your behalf to make sure any maintenance agreement reflects your current needs.
You may be able to get a post-divorce modification, depending on your circumstances. An attorney with experience in Cook County post-divorce modifications could review your case and determine whether your situation qualifies. We can work with you to make sure your divorce agreement reflects your current needs. To discuss your options, call Reidy Law Office LLC today.