Family Law Modifications Attorney in Pensacola, FL
Our Family Law Attorneys are Here to Help You
Legal agreements, such as divorce decrees, child custody orders, and child/spousal support orders, reflect the circumstances of the time at which they were made. Circumstances can and do change all the time, however, and many people find that they at some point need to request a modification of those terms. If you have found yourself in this situation, we invite you to call The Virga Law Firm, P.A. to discuss your case with a Pensacola modification attorney.
A skilled lawyer at our firm can help you determine whether you have grounds for requesting a modification, complete and submit the correct forms, and take care of all other legal details. We have decades of combined experience and a genuine passion for helping people resolve sensitive legal issues involving families.
Call us today at 800-822-5170 to schedule an affordable case review with a member of our team.
What is Modification?
In Florida family law, modifications refer to legal changes made to existing court orders or agreements, typically involving child custody, child support, alimony, or parenting plans. These modifications are requested when there has been a significant change in circumstances that justifies altering the original terms.
Common reasons for requesting a modification include:
- Change in income: If one party experiences a significant increase or decrease in income (e.g., job loss, new employment, promotion, demotion, etc.), it may warrant a modification of child support or alimony.
- Relocation: If a parent wishes to move a considerable distance, this could impact the child custody arrangement and require a modification.
- Change in child’s needs: If a child's needs change due to health, education, or other factors, the custody or support arrangement may need to be adjusted.
- Parental behavior: If one parent's behavior poses a risk to the child's well-being, a modification of custody or visitation rights may be necessary.
The Legal Process of Modifying a Court Order
The legal process for modifying a family court order in Florida involves the following steps:
- Identify a Substantial Change in Circumstances: To modify a court order, the requesting party must show a substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances since the original order was issued. This could include changes like income shifts, relocation, or a child's evolving needs.
- Filing a Petition for Modification: The party seeking a modification files a Petition for Modification with the court that issued the original order. This petition outlines the changes requested and provides evidence of the significant change in circumstances.
- Serve the Petition on the Other Party: After filing, the petition must be formally served to the other party. This ensures they are properly notified and given an opportunity to respond.
- Response by the Other Party: The other party has the option to respond, either agreeing with or contesting the modification. If contested, the case may proceed to mediation or a court hearing.
- Mediation (Optional but Common): Before a hearing, the court often requires mediation, where both parties attempt to negotiate a resolution. If they reach an agreement, it can be submitted to the court for approval.
- Court Hearing: If mediation fails, a court hearing is scheduled, where both parties present evidence and arguments. The judge will evaluate whether the modification is justified based on the presented facts.
- Court Decision: The judge will issue a ruling either granting or denying the modification. If approved, a new court order will be issued reflecting the updated terms.
- Post-Modification Issues: Once modified, both parties must comply with the new order. Non-compliance can result in enforcement actions, such as contempt of court.
Contact Us Today to Discuss Your Case
The Virga Law Firm, P.A. is committed to the success of our clients and their families. If you need help with a family law modification, you can feel confident entrusting our firm with your case. We serve clients in Pensacola, Panama City, Fort Walton Beach, and the surrounding areas.
Contact us today to get started. We’re available 24/7 for your convenience.
Our Core Values
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The Client Comes First and All Else Will FollowWe take pride in delivering best-in-class client service and experience, understanding the privilege and responsibility we have when assisting clients and their families through legal matters. It is our highest obligation.
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Authenticity and TransparencyWe believe in being transparent about who we are, with ourselves, each other, and our clients and partners. This authenticity builds trust and fosters strong relationships.
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Relentless Pursuit of the WinWe achieve stellar results by focusing on personal and professional performance and goals. Our relentless pursuit ensures we deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients.
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Growth MindsetWe continuously learn, grow, and improve as individuals, as a law firm, and as advocates for our clients. We set and exceed both personal and professional goals to ensure ongoing development.
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OwnershipWe take responsibility for our work and actions, ensuring accountability in all that we do. Our commitment to ownership drives excellence and fosters a culture of trust and reliability.
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Results DrivenWe focus on outcomes and disregard the level of effort required. We have the vision and the discipline to do the work and face challenges to make our vision a reality for our clients.
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Respect and Celebration for One AnotherWe support each other with kindness and respect, emphasizing a positive work culture and celebrating along the way. We respect our clients and support them through their challenges.
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Unquestionable IntegrityWe stand up for what’s right with consistently sound ethics and courageous honesty. Our integrity is the foundation of our practice and guides our actions and decisions.
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We are in it TogetherWe are client and team-focused, committed to the firm’s vision, and act for the greater good. We carry our weight, bring others along, and act with civility, candor, and respect in all interactions.
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ReputationReputation is everything. We strive to have the best personal and professional reputations. We want our reputation to precede us and for opposing counsel to know we are committed to fighting for our clients.
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Community StewardshipWe embody the concept of giving back to the community. The Virga Law Firm is committed to supporting and improving the community through responsible and caring actions, setting an example of character.
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