Frequently Asked Questions

You are not required to have an attorney and you may represent yourself. You may also hire an attorney at any time.

Your child has moved in with you with the full consent of the other parent or the child is in danger of physical or emotional harm in the custodial parent’s home and your home offers more safety and security or the custodial parent has been held in contempt of court twice in the last 3 years for violation of the parenting plan or has been convicted of custodial interference.

Your residence or job changed, and the parenting plan does not work because of that change or the requested change does not exceed 24 calendar days in a year or the current parenting plan does not provide reasonable residential time and your proposed parenting plan does not provide for more than 90 overnights per year.

No. There is no specific age at which children can make legal decisions. The child’s wishes are not a basis for modification.

If the court feels it is appropriate, the judge may interview the children or appoint a Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) to speak with the children outside of court. The GAL may also speak to you and the other party.

If the other party disagrees with your request to modify the parenting plan, they must file a response. You will then be required to schedule a hearing and serve the other party with notice.

You may request court permission to serve by mail to a last known address or family member’s address.

Yes. The child is entitled to support even if you or the other party do not want it.

Yes. You may request the court grant you emergency custody. If the court feels it is appropriate, they may sign an order immediately.

If the other party responds, you will have to go to court. You may have several court hearings.