Custody Order Modification Lawyer in Phoenix

There are many reasons why a parent may want to modify his or her child custody order in Phoenix. Perhaps the parent started a new job and needs to change his or her visitation schedule, or he or she fears for the child’s safety under the current arrangement.

If you are looking to modify a Phoenix child custody order, the Law Office of Karen A. Schoenau can help. Our experienced lawyer can guide you through the process and protect the best interests of your child.

Why Choose Us

• Our attorney has over 20 years of experience in Arizona family law, specializing in complex child custody cases. We understand that family law cases can take a toll on your emotional health and provide efficient, compassionate representation.
• Our law firm prioritizes your child’s best interests in creating your case strategy and will fight aggressively to protect his or her rights.
• Our Phoenix child custody lawyer will provide you with the resources and representation necessary to bring your child custody modification case to a successful resolution. Whether you’re seeking legal decision making, child support, a revised parenting plan, or a custody modification, we will advocate for the best outcome.

When Can You Modify a Phoenix Custody Order?

There are two types of custody in Arizona. Legal custody refers to a parent’s ability to make decisions on behalf of a child, while physical custody involves parenting time and visitation schedules. A custody order will allocate both legal decision making custody and parenting time between a child’s parents.

Under Arizona law, you may petition to modify a Phoenix child custody order beginning one year after it was entered. However, you can modify the order earlier if your child’s physical, emotional, mental, or moral safety is endangered by the current arrangement. You may request that the court adjust legal decision making custody, visitation rights, or physical custody in your petition. Our modification attorneys help you explore your legal options and pursue a course of action that protects you and your child.

The court may consider a number of facts while deciding whether to modify a custody order, including the following.

• The best interests of your child and his or her custody preferences
• The ability of your child to adjust to changes in the home, school, or community
• The mental and physical health of the child and each parent
• The presence of child abuse or domestic violence in Phoenix
• Whether a parent is likely to encourage a healthy relationship with the other parent
• Whether either parent has made a false report of child abuse or neglect

How to Modify a Custody Order in Phoenix

To modify an Arizona custody order, you will need to take the following steps.

• First, you will need to identify your basis to modify, or your reason for submitting the petition. This basis may include changes to living arrangements, scheduling conflict, or job duties.
• Next, you will need to file your petition to modify it with the appropriate court. Your family law attorney from the Law Office of Karen A. Schoenau can prepare the right paperwork on your behalf.
• After you file the petition, you will need to serve the other parent with the petition using a sheriff, private process server, or by certified mail. Your former partner will need to submit a response to the petition after being served.
• Finally, your case will proceed to court or mediation in Phoenix. During trial, a judge will decide whether to modify the order. In mediation, you and the other parent will try to come to a resolution with the guidance of a neutral mediator. Your child custody lawyer can support you during both of these processes.

How Do You Benefit From the Services of a Phoenix Custody Modification Lawyer?

Modifying a child custody order in Phoenix can be a complex, stressful, and time-consuming process. To ensure that your wishes and reasons for seeking modification are presented clearly, it’s advisable to seek legal advice from our family law attorney. Our legal team has decades of experience advocating for the best outcome for children and their parents. We are familiar with Arizona courts and the applicable family law orders, so we can help you follow the proper child custody procedures.

Every family’s situation is unique, and your needs may change unexpectedly throughout the duration of the custody modifications. Our Phoenix child custody attorneys are sensitive to your needs and strive to keep you informed throughout the legal process, so you know exactly how your case stands. We offer timely legal advice, effective representation, and compassionate support that you can count on.

Schedule a Consultation With Our Phoenix Child Custody Modification Lawyer

Are you seeking to modify a child custody order in Phoenix? The family law attorneys at the Law Office of Karen A. Schoenau can help. Contact us today to discuss your case and schedule an initial consultation with a Phoenix custody order modification lawyer.