What can be modified
Orders for child support, alimony and parenting plans are based on circumstances when they were entered. When those circumstances change significantly, Florida law allows parties to ask the court to modify them. Common requests involve:
- Child support
- Alimony
- Parenting plans and time-sharing schedules
- Certain financial obligations related to children
When modification is allowed
To modify most family law orders, Florida law generally requires proof of a substantial, material and unanticipated change in circumstances since the last order. Examples may include a significant change in income, job loss or career change, changes in the child’s needs, relocation of a parent, or changes in time-sharing. Minor or temporary changes are usually not enough.
Child support
May be modified when finances or time-sharing change significantly. We review income and employment issues, analyze updated financial affidavits, prepare guideline worksheets and evaluate whether the legal thresholds are met.
Parenting plans and time-sharing
May be modified when changes affect the child’s best interests, such as work schedules, school concerns, relocation, ongoing conflict, or safety and stability concerns.
Alimony
Modifications typically require proof of substantial income changes, retirement, health issues affecting earning ability or other major life changes. Whether alimony can be modified may also depend on the type of alimony and the terms of the original order.
Defending against improper requests
Not all modification requests are valid. We also represent clients responding to modification petitions: identifying whether a legal basis exists, challenging inaccurate income claims, and protecting existing time-sharing arrangements.
How we help
- Review existing court orders
- Evaluate whether modification is legally justified
- Prepare and file proper motions
- Represent you in mediation and hearings
- Protect long-term parental and financial interests
Frequently asked questions
What counts as a substantial change?
Generally a substantial, material and unanticipated change since the last order, such as a significant income change or job loss. Minor or temporary changes are usually not enough.
The other parent filed to modify. Do I have to accept it?
No. Modification is not automatic, and courts require specific evidence. We help clients defend against improper requests.