Louisiana custody orders outline parental rights and responsibilities. Each parent has a specific amount of parenting time and a degree of legal decision-making authority. They cooperate with one another by regularly exchanging custody, sharing information about the children and making joint decisions regarding key parental matters.
Parents who can consistently uphold the terms of their custody order can usually co-parent peacefully. Unfortunately, they may eventually realize that the custody order has become a source of conflict.
When can parents modify an existing custody order to better meet the family’s needs?
Modifications require a significant change in circumstances
Litigated custody proceedings require the review of family law judges. They familiarize themselves with family circumstances to ensure that the terms they set are in the best interests of the children. State law specifically states that neither a pending relocation nor a deployment of a service member parent meets the standard for custody modification.
The change must be significant when compared with the circumstances at the time of the creation of the original order. A significant change in household circumstances for either parent could alter what a judge views as being best for the children. New work schedules, changes in housing and new relationships can all influence the best way to manage shared custody.
When there has been a significant change in circumstances that influences what the children truly need, judges may agree to hear contested custody modification cases. Parents also have the option of working cooperatively to modify a custody order. If they can agree about the changes they need to make, they can jointly petition the courts for a faster uncontested modification.
Learning about the rules that govern child custody can help parents limit conflict and optimize their parental rights. Co-parents may occasionally need to revisit their custody orders to make sure that they fit their family’s needs.