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Matthews Modifications Attorney
Experienced Modifications Lawyer Serving Matthews, NC
Life rarely stays the same after a divorce or custody order is finalized. Jobs change, children grow, people move, and financial circumstances shift. When these changes are significant, existing court orders—such as custody, visitation, child support, or spousal support—may no longer reflect your current reality. In these situations, pursuing a legal modification may be necessary to maintain fairness and protect your rights.
Working with an experienced Matthews modifications attorney can make a critical difference in the success of your request. Family courts in North Carolina do allow modifications, but only under specific legal standards. Proper legal guidance ensures your petition is backed by strong evidence and properly presented to the court.
To speak with our experienced Matthews modifications lawyers, call us at (704) 659-0007 or contact us online today.
What Is a Post-Judgment Modification?
A post-judgment modification is a legal request to change a previously issued court order, usually related to child custody, visitation (parenting time), child support, or alimony. These orders are designed to meet the needs of families at the time they are issued, but they are not set in stone. When a substantial change in circumstances occurs, one or both parties can petition the court for a modification.
Modifications can apply to:
- Child custody and visitation schedules
- Child support obligations
- Spousal support (alimony) payments
- Parental relocation
While it is possible to informally agree to changes, verbal agreements are not legally enforceable. Only a court-approved modification has the legal authority to replace the existing order. Seeking a formal modification protects you from disputes or enforcement issues down the road.
Grounds for Modifying a Family Court Order in North Carolina
To successfully obtain a modification, you must demonstrate that a substantial change in circumstances has occurred since the original order was entered. This change must directly affect the well-being of the child or the fairness of the financial arrangement.
Common grounds for modification include:
1. Changes in Income
If one parent experiences a job loss, promotion, demotion, or any other significant change in income, child support or alimony may need to be adjusted to reflect the new financial situation.
2. Relocation
When a parent needs to move—especially out of town or out of state—it may impact the existing custody or visitation schedule. Courts will evaluate whether the move is in the child’s best interest and how it affects the other parent’s time and relationship with the child.
3. Changing Needs of the Child
As children grow, their educational, medical, or emotional needs may change. Modifications to custody or support may be appropriate to reflect those evolving requirements.
4. Health Issues
A serious illness or disability affecting either parent or the child may justify changes to custody, support, or parenting schedules.
5. Violation of the Existing Order
If one party consistently fails to comply with the terms of the current order—such as withholding visitation or not paying support—a modification may be sought to address the violations and better protect the child or the other parent.
A Matthews modifications attorney can assess whether your situation meets the legal threshold for a modification and help you gather the evidence needed to support your petition.
Modifying Child Custody or Visitation
Child custody and visitation arrangements are always subject to modification based on the best interests of the child. Courts will only consider a change if there has been a material change in circumstances affecting the child’s welfare.
- Examples that may support a modification include:
- One parent relocating
- Changes in the child’s school or health needs
- A parent’s remarriage or cohabitation
- Evidence of neglect, abuse, or instability
- Changes in the amount of time each parent can devote to the child
We help parents pursue or defend against custody modifications, always keeping the focus on what arrangement serves the child’s emotional and developmental needs.
Modifying Child Support
North Carolina child support laws are designed to ensure that children receive adequate financial support from both parents. If a parent’s income changes by 15% or more, that alone may be enough to warrant a review and possible modification of the current support order.
Other factors that may justify a child support modification include:
- A parent becoming disabled or unemployed
- A change in child custody arrangements
- An increase in the child’s expenses (e.g., medical care, education, childcare)
- A parent having additional children or financial obligations
Our firm can assist with initiating or responding to a request for child support modification and can help ensure the amount is fair, accurate, and in accordance with the state guidelines.
Modifying Spousal Support
Spousal support, or alimony, may be modified in North Carolina if there has been a significant change in financial circumstances for either party. This could involve:
- A job loss or promotion
- Retirement
- Remarriage or cohabitation of the receiving spouse
- A serious medical issue affecting ability to work
In some cases, spousal support may be terminated altogether. A Matthews modifications attorney can help evaluate your current situation and determine whether your support obligation (or entitlement) should be revisited.
Enforcement vs. Modification
It’s important to distinguish between enforcing an existing court order and modifying it. If the other party is not complying with the current terms—such as refusing visitation or failing to make support payments—the correct step may be to file a motion for enforcement or contempt, not modification.
However, if the terms are no longer workable due to changed circumstances, seeking a formal modification is appropriate. Attempting to make changes informally or ignoring the court order can put you at risk of legal penalties.
How a Matthews Modifications Attorney Can Help
Family law matters are complex and emotionally charged, especially when they involve children or financial obligations. Filing for a modification requires more than simply stating that circumstances have changed—you must present convincing evidence and a clear legal argument.
As your legal advocate, we:
- Review your original court order and current circumstances
- Help you gather documentation to support your case
- Prepare and file all necessary legal documents
- Represent you in court hearings or negotiations
- Seek practical, lasting solutions that reflect your evolving needs
Whether you’re seeking to initiate a modification or defend against one, our firm provides skilled and responsive representation every step of the way.
Schedule a Consultation With a Matthews Modifications Attorney
If your current family court order no longer fits your life, pursuing a legal modification may be the solution. Don’t leave your rights—or your child’s well-being—to chance. A knowledgeable Matthews modifications attorney can help you petition the court for a fair and enforceable change based on today’s realities.
To speak with our experienced Matthews modifications lawyers, call us at (704) 659-0007 or contact us online today.
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I can't say enough about this firm. When you're going through the tough things in life that require help from family law, you want a team by your side that treats you not like a client, but as a person, a friend. My attorney and her team were nothing short of phenomenal. I interviewed 5 attorneys before selecting whom to retain, and I would advise anyone to do the same, but surely you'll come to the same decision and realize Rech Law is everything you are looking for. Even when my attorney was unavailable during a suddenly pivotal juncture, another senior partner seamlessly stepped in.- Tony R. -
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Working with Rech Law, P.C. professionals, explicitly working with Stephanie and Amanda was an enjoyable experience. This process was new to me, and they were responsive when I asked questions and provided information to understand the process.- Melinda L. -
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I'm not going to lie I went off of every one of their reviews being five stars to make my selection. I'm from South Carolina but I needed a North Carolina attorney so I didn't have any recommendations. I was not disappointed and I know how they have all 5-star reviews. They do exceptional work and very very responsive. They are on point from beginning to end and got me exactly what I was seeking in terms of custody. I think Katie and the staff doing an amazing job and would highly recommend.- Justin G. -
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