Changing Custody or Parenting Plans in Massachusetts
If a parent can show that circumstances have substantially changed, the modification proceedings for a change in custody or the parenting plan will generally focus on the best interests of the child. To seek a custody change, one parent would need to present specific evidence showing that, while in the other parent’s care, the children exhibit serious behavioral challenges. Skipping school, using drugs and alcohol, engaging in unhealthy sexual activity, running away or threatening suicide would be considered harmful situations by most judges. A parent’s chance for changing child custody improves significantly if they have valid reasons to request a change.
Other justified situations or circumstances that would warrant a custody evaluation or modification include:
- Neglectful parenting of the children
- Substandard living conditions
- Excessive school absences or poor performance in school
- Either parent sabotaging the other parent’s contact with the children
- A parent’s new boyfriend or girlfriend presenting a danger to the children
- A child’s request for a change in his or her living conditions
- Not having food in the refrigerator or not providing other basic needs
Family Court Judges Differ in Custody Modifications
Each family court judge approaches requests for modifications differently. That is why our attorneys are assigned to courts in different regions of the state, charged with watching each of the judges and observing specifically how each handles cases in which one parent wants to change the terms of custody or the parenting plan. We listen carefully for issues that come up before the judge that are similar to the issues in cases we are handling. Knowing how the judge acts, our attorneys are more likely to understand how the case will fare with that specific judge.
Let Our Attorneys Build the Right Strategy for You
At Miller Law Group, P.C., our experienced Massachusetts child custody lawyers are dedicated to leveling the playing field for our clients in child custody or parenting plan modification cases. Let us help you, too. Call us today at (508) 502-7002 or contact us for a free initial consultation.
