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March 18, 2013

Child Custody and Support

Adjusting Child Custody Arrangements or the Amount of Child Support

What if the child wants to live with the other parent?

A child’s preference to live with the noncustodial parent can be a basis for modifying custody, but the child’s reasons must be well based and not appear to be the result of coaching or bribery. In one case, a father who was trying to gain custody of his 13-year-old had given his son a horse, two TVs, a minibike, a shotgun, and a private phone line the week before going to court. The father did not gain custody.

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.

>>What are some typical reasons for a change in custody?
>>Once custody has been awarded, when can the other parent try to get it changed?
>>What if the child wants to live with the other parent?
>>What are some typical reasons for changing child support arrangements?
>>What happens if the parent who has custody wants to move to another state?
>>Can the parents make changes without going to court?


Practical Law Home | Child Custody & Support Home | Deciding Factors in Awarding Child Custody
Issues Surrounding Visitation | Setting Guidelines for Child Support
*Adjusting Child Custody Arrangements or the Amount of Child Support*